Angling giant reels in new acquisition in Mildenhall

A leading fishing tackle retailer is poised to open a huge angling superstore in Mildenhall.

Yorkshire-based Fishing Republic has completed the acquisition of independent retailer, Tackle Warehouse, which had been operating out of the 4,000 sq ft centre in James Carter Road.

The acquisition by the AIM-listed Fishing Republic is the company’s first move into East Anglia.

Chief executive Steve Gross said: “Although we do a great deal of our business online our business is predicated on service.

“All Fishing Republic sales staff are chosen for their diverse angling expertise and their enthusiasm and their keen interest in helping newcomers and experienced anglers alike.”

The new-look store will be open to the public from Monday with a formal grand opening provisionally scheduled for October 29.

It is the company’s 12th store and Mr Gross said the firm has ambitious plans for the future within East Anglia and the south of the country.

He said the acquisition was a key stage in Fishing Republic’s aggressive growth strategy, which is likely to include the addition of a further five or six stores throughout the region.

Tackle Warehouse owner Steve Calder, who will remain as manager of the new store, said: “Although my partner Carol and I have enjoyed our time at the helm of a traditional tackle store, the reality is independents such as ours simply cannot compete with modern megastores, which combine unrivalled buying power with access to all the key tackle brands.

“The acquisition also enables us to tap into an extended team of experts, covering all the key angling disciplines.

Mr Calder added: “The Fishing Republic staff includes successful match and carp anglers, predator specialists, sea anglers and fly fishermen.

“So, for our customers the launch means the best of both worlds: expert advice and support, backed by the best prices in the industry.”