Dowco, Inc. recently announced the purchase of Auburn Leather Company’s motorcycle division effective June 6, 2011. Auburn Leather Company is based in Auburn, Kentucky.

“Auburn Leather Company’s position as a tier one supplier to the OE market, as well as their aftermarket  product lines, are a good fit for Dowco”, commented Mike Kaczkowski, Executive Vice President for Dowco. “The OEM motorcycle market is finite, and with the drop off in unit sales the past several years, this move makes sense for us to keep our OEM business and supply chain healthy, and the Auburn brand of leather saddlebags will integrate into Dowco’s family of aftermarket brands very well.”

Auburn Leather Company will move forward with its three remaining divisions, from its existing base of operations in Kentucky. Dowco will sell the leather line of saddlebags to the market under the brand ‘ALC Saddlebags’.   

“Our intent is to make the transition as smooth as possible for all of Auburn’s former customers and sales partners.  Work began weeks ago with our two companies to inform folks of the timing and allow for adequate order planning.  Auburn built up some great industry relationships, and our goal is to build upon those for a strong future,” said Kaczkowski.

Manitowoc, Wis.-based DOWCO, Inc. is a manufacturer of products for the marine and powersports industries. Dowco sells to marine and powersports OEMs, and the motorcycle aftermarket under the brands: Guardian, Fastrax, Iron Rider, Rally Pack and Willie & Max. Dowco will continue supporting the former Auburn Leather Company dealer-aftermarket sales under the trade name “ALC Saddlebags.”