June 27, 2025 marks a key milestone in the world of water sports with the announcement of the acquisition of the AQUALUNG group by HEAD, a global player in sports equipment. This strategic merger, confirmed by a decision of the Nice Commercial Court on June 26, follows AQUALUNG’s placement into judicial reorganization on May 16.
A merger that reshuffles the deck
HEAD, already present in the fields of winter sports, racquets, sports and aquatic apparel, strengthens its presence in the world of water sports with this acquisition. This merger allows HEAD to expand its portfolio beyond its already well-established brands in this domain, such as MARES, SSI, rEvo, LIVEABOARD.COM, and ZOGGS.
Restructuring and investment to ensure sustainability
To ensure the stability and future of AQUALUNG, HEAD plans a complete reorganization of the group’s commercial platform. An emergency funding exceeding 50 million euros is committed, accompanied by a robust integration plan aimed at generating significant synergies. This operation will not only preserve several hundred jobs but also modernize and develop AQUALUNG’s production sites located in France, the United Kingdom, and Mexico.
A global leader in water sports
The merger of HEAD and AQUALUNG creates the world’s leading company in the water sports market. This new entity brings together two key players driven by values of safety, technical innovation, excellence, comfort, design, performance, and a passion for sport and underwater exploration.
Maintaining iconic brands and expanding into new markets
HEAD commits to maintaining and promoting the AQUALUNG, APEKS, and AQUASPHERE brands. This strategic commitment is accompanied by a reinforcement of the military and professional division, a sector experiencing full growth.
An optimized worldwide production for enthusiasts
By leveraging AQUALUNG’s industrial capabilities, HEAD plans to support the manufacture and international distribution of high-end products. The complementarity of expertise fosters the acceleration of market leadership and opens new perspectives to democratize access to water sports worldwide.
A unique heritage and strong brands
Created in 1943 following the invention of the ‘scuba apparatus’ by Captain Jacques Cousteau and engineer Émile Gagnan, AQUALUNG has established itself as a global reference in scuba diving. Its equipment is exported to more than 90 countries and meets the expectations of both recreational divers and the demands of professionals and military personnel on missions.
- MARES joined HEAD in 1971 and has distinguished itself as a leading brand in diving through its innovation.
- SSI, integrated into HEAD since 2014, is today the leading European diving certification body and has more than doubled its revenue since.
- ZOGGS, an Australian swimwear brand acquired in 2020, fully benefits from the international scope of the HEAD network and is experiencing rapid expansion.
This new alliance promises numerous innovations and opportunities for all diving and water sports enthusiasts, whether beginners or experienced, affirming HEAD’s role as an essential player in the sector.