Bose Acquires Skullcandy, Which Will Remain a Separate Brand

Bose has acquired Skullcandy, bringing the Park City, Utah-based audio brand into its consumer audio business while saying it will continue as a separate brand. The deal expands a partnership in which Skullcandy products have used Bose audio technology, including active noise cancellation and spatial audio. The companies had worked together through Bose’s Sound by Bose licensing program before the acquisition. Under that arrangement, Skullcandy designed products and incorporated Bose audio technology. Products cited in connection with the partnership include Method 360 ANC earbuds and Crusher 1080 ANC headphones. Bose CEO Lila Snyder said Skullcandy gives Bose access to customers the Bose brand has largely not reached. Snyder also said Skullcandy would not be relocated from Park City. The companies have not disclosed the acquisition’s financial terms. The acquisition combines Bose’s established audio technology with a brand associated with board sports and street culture. Skullcandy products are generally positioned at lower prices than Bose products, giving the companies brands across different parts of the consumer audio market. The reporting does not establish specific...