Stockholders in action sports retailer West 49 have overwhelmingly backed plans to sell the company to surfwear business Billabong International.

More than 99.9% of votes at a special meeting in Toronto backed the move, which sees shareholders receive C$1.30 (US$1.22) per share from Aurora, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Billabong International.

Final court approval for the sale will probably be sought tomorrow (26 August) and, subject to customary closing conditions, it should be completed in late August or early September.

Billabong was left in pole position to buy the Canadian retailer after US sportswear company Zumiez abandoned its higher bid for the business in July.

 

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Style Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Style Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact

Excellence in Action
From bio-based durable water repellents to 90–95% wastewater recovery, Archroma’s dual win in the 2025 Just Style Excellence Awards highlights its sustainability-first approach. Find out how PHOBOTEX® NTR-50 and the Mahachai ZLD project are helping apparel and textile players meet tightening global regulations.

Discover the Impact