GSI Outdoors Returns to Its Roots: Original Founders Reacquire Iconic Outdoor Brand

May 18, 2026

Siblings Don, Ian, and Kathy Scott resume full ownership of the company, marking a new chapter of independence and innovation.

SPOKANE, Wash. – May 18, 2026 /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – GSI Outdoors, a leader in innovative outdoor cooking solutions for more than four decades, today announced that its original founders – siblings Don, Ian, and Kathy Scott – have successfully reacquired the company. The move returns GSI Outdoors to its status as a family-owned and operated business, effective immediately.

Founded by the Scott siblings 41 years ago, GSI Outdoors has grown from a small distribution company into one of the most respected brands in the outdoor industry. After selling the company in 2022 to Pelican International, the Scotts remained closely involved in the brand’s operations. Following a period of corporate restructuring at Pelican over the past year, the family saw a clear path to bring the brand back home.

“GSI Outdoors has always been more than just a business to us: it is our family’s legacy and a community we have helped build for over forty years,” said Don Scott, co-founder of GSI Outdoors. “We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to step back into full ownership and lead this talented team once again. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and the outdoor experience is stronger than ever, and we couldn’t be more excited to steer the brand’s future on our own terms.”

Despite the transitions of the past few years, GSI Outdoors has maintained strong performance and a robust presence in the market. Under the renewed leadership of the Scott family, the company plans to focus on its core mission: creating technical, innovative, and fun outdoor gear that brings people together around a campfire or a kitchen table.

The reacquisition marks a significant “full circle” moment for the outdoor industry, signaling a return to the independent, founder-led spirit that has defined GSI Outdoors since 1985. The Scotts intend to focus on strengthening retail partnerships, expanding product lines, and ensuring the brand remains a staple of the outdoor lifestyle for generations to come. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

For more information visit gsioutdoors.com.

About GSI Outdoors

Founded in 1985, GSI Outdoors is dedicated to providing adventurers with dependable, innovative gear designed to bring people together in the great outdoors. Born from the childhood adventures of founders Don, Ian, and Kathy Scott in British Columbia, the company, now based in Spokane, Washington, continues to be family-operated. Committed to responsible manufacturing and environmental stewardship, GSI Outdoors remains a leading force in providing gear for memorable outdoor meals.

###