November 2, 2023 3:30 a.m.

In the KQEN Business Spotlight:

North River Boats of Roseburg and Willie Boats of Central Point have joined forces.

A release posted on the North River website on Wednesday said the new parent company will be called 44 Degrees North.

North River, considered to be a premier-builder of heavy-gauge aluminum boats, and Willie Boats, called the best-in class builder of aluminum drift boats, will be “an unprecedented combination, well-poised to serve commercial, recreational, first responder and military customers”, according to the release.

CEO Brent Hutchings said, “We have known and respected the people and products of Willie Boats for decades and are thrilled to now combine these world-class teams”. Hutchings said Wille Boat employees will join North River employees to become shareholders in the combined company through participation in its employee stock ownership plan.

Long-time Willie Boats President and owner Jim Bittle said, “It’s the dream team”. Bittle said, “This deal assures the future of Willie Boats and I could not be happier for my customers and employees”. As a consultant, Bittle will assist in the company’s transition.

The release said Willie Boats will continue to manufacture drift boats, powerboats and raft frames at its location in Central Point. Hutchings signed a 20-year factory lease with three 10-year extensions. North River remains in Roseburg where it currently employs 150 people.

The release said “The combination of North River and Willie Boats creates an exciting and promising future for both companies as they continue their long history of providing premium-quality vessels for a wide range of recreational, commercial and government customers”.