Outside Inc. Acquires Two New Media Brands
Outside Inc. has announced its acquisition of two new Colorado media companies, ROAM Media and Inkwell Media, both based in Boulder.
ROAM Media, founded in 2017, provides its members with a catalog of online classes taught by world-renowned climbers, skiers, snowboarders, surfers, filmmakers, photographers, and mind and body experts. Membership also includes podcasts, exclusive access to community events with the instructors and mini-documentaries from ROAM Studios.
Inkwell Media, founded in 2014, will bolster Outside’s internal social media and creator strategy by tapping Inkwell’s large network of artists and athletes.
Outside’s members are used to quality content and resources that help them get outdoors and experience the wellness benefits of nature,” Robin Thurston, CEO of Outside, said in a statement. “The addition of ROAM Media and Inkwell Media are key to continuing our commitment of providing best-in-class content, while inspiring users to do the activities they love, more often, and with greater knowledge and enjoyment.”
Christopher Jerard, who founded both ROAM and Inkwell, said in a statement Thursday, “Like Outside, we believe in the power of outdoor fun and adventure. The idea when we started these companies, independently, was to marry authentic adventure storytelling and community with modern media platforms and technology. Outside’s portfolio of brands has a legacy of storytelling that is unmatched.”
Both of these acquisitions will be used to improve Outside+, Outside Inc.’s premier subscription service offering premium articles and reviews, event discounts, sport-specific training plans, and more for active lifestyle participants. ROAM’s membership benefits will be rolled into Outside+ in the coming months, while Inkwell’s expertise in community building and social media will help grow awareness about the product.
The companies will remain based in Boulder, and Jerard will assume the role of Vice President of Creator Network, Audience Engagement & Learning at Outside.
