Shimano Initiates Rowing (Boat Race) Equipment Business

From the Shimano Corporate website:

In 2009 Shimano Inc. (President: Yozo Shimano) will initiate a rowing (regatta) equipment business, taking advantage of the Corporation’s exceptional manufacturing technologies, developed in the production of bicycle components and fishing tackle.

To begin with, Shimano plans to develop and launch rowing shoes and foot stretchers* during 2009, through effective use of its original technologies for producing cycling shoes and bicycle pedals. In five years, the Corporation plans to grow its annual sales of rowing equipment to approximately 3 billion yen.