Japanese sports equipment company Yonex has agreed to acquire a 50% voting stake in Sunrise Sports India, its long standing distribution partner in the country. The transaction will make Sunrise Sports an equity method affiliate of Yonex and is expected to be completed by December 2026.
The deal follows a board decision by Yonex on September 16, 2026. The company said the investment will strengthen its partnership with Sunrise Sports and support the integration of its global strategy with the requirements of the Indian market.
Yonex has identified India as a priority market under its medium to long term Global Growth Strategy. The company said the growing popularity of badminton and rising demand for its products are key factors behind its focus on the country.
Yonex has operated a manufacturing facility in India since 2017, producing badminton racquets for the domestic market. According to the company, production volumes have increased over the years as demand has grown, while its products have gained acceptance among Indian consumers.
Sunrise Sports India was established in 1993 and distributes Yonex badminton and tennis equipment across the Indian market. The company operates through a network covering more than 10,000 retail outlets, academies, ecommerce platforms and exclusive stores.
Sunrise Sports also has a long standing association with the Badminton Association of India. Its distribution operations cover products including racquets, shuttlecocks, strings, footwear, apparel and accessories, with the company also operating more than 50 exclusive stores across key locations.
FAQs
- What is Yonex acquiring in India?
Yonex is acquiring a 50% voting stake in Sunrise Sports India, its long standing distribution partner in the country.
- When will Yonex acquire the stake in Sunrise Sports?
The transaction is expected to be completed by December 2026, subject to the required conditions.
- What is Sunrise Sports India?
Sunrise Sports India is a sports equipment distributor established in 1993 that distributes Yonex badminton and tennis products in India.
- Why is Yonex investing in Sunrise Sports India?
The investment is part of Yonex’s focus on the Indian market, driven by the growing popularity of badminton and demand for sports equipment.
