Skullcandy
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Audio equipment |
| Founded | 2003 |
| Founder | Rick Alden, Cris Williams |
| Headquarters | Park City , United States |
Area served | Worldwide |
| Products | Headphones, earphones, Bluetooth speakers, audio accessories |
| Owner | Mill Road Capital |
| Parent | Mill Road Capital |
| Website | www |
Skullcandy Inc. is a U.S.-based enterprise located in Park City, Utah that specializes in the design and sale of audio devices such as headphones, earphones, Bluetooth speakers, and related accessories.
Established in 2003, Skullcandy became a publicly traded company in 2011 before being purchased by Mill Road Capital for $196.9 million in October 2016, subsequently transitioning into a fully owned private subsidiary.
Products
Focusing mainly on consumers involved in outdoor action sports like snowboarders and skateboarders, Skullcandy also appeals to the general market. In recent years, the brand has ventured into the high-end audio segment with offerings such as the Crusher headphones.
The company has collaborated with prominent audio technology leaders including Bose and THX to incorporate sophisticated sound capabilities into its products. Additionally, Skullcandy has introduced exclusive limited-edition items through partnerships with brands like Burton and Doritos.
Its products reach customers via retail stores, specialty shops, corporate incentive programs, and the official online platform.
Company history
Founded in 2003 by Rick Alden and Cris Williams, Skullcandy launched its inaugural product, the Skullcandy Portable Link, at the 2003 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) held in Las Vegas. This LINK system combined headphones with hands-free mobile phone functionality, allowing users to listen to music while handling calls on their cellphones. The company holds a patent covering the wireless iteration of this LINK technology.
In December 2008, Fortune magazine referred to Skullcandy’s products as "the world's coolest ear buds."
In April 2011, Skullcandy expanded by acquiring headphone manufacturer Astro Gaming from Astro Studios for an undisclosed sum.
Skullcandy submitted its registration for an initial public offering to the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 28, 2011; however, this move was met with some doubt from financial experts.
On June 24, 2016, Incipio announced intentions to purchase Skullcandy for $177 million; nevertheless, the transaction fell through after Incipio refused to modify the merger agreement. Following this, Skullcandy entertained other acquisition proposals and ultimately agreed to be bought by Mill Road Capital for $196.9 million at a price of $6.35 per share. This acquisition was finalized on October 3, 2016, which resulted in Skullcandy returning to private ownership.
External links
- American companies established in 2003
- Electronics companies established in 2003
- Manufacturing companies based in Utah
- Headphones manufacturers
- Park City, Utah
- 2003 establishments in Utah
- Audio equipment manufacturers of the United States
- Privately held companies based in Utah
- Companies formerly listed on the Nasdaq