Future of Rutabaga Paddlesports Remains Uncertain Amid Potential Sale
The fate of Madison’s well-known Rutabaga Paddlesports hangs in the balance as owner Darren Bush contemplates exiting the business to pursue his new passion as a hospice chaplain. However, the store’s closure may not be as imminent as previously thought.
Having joined the sporting goods store in 1990 and taking ownership in 2007, Bush recently announced his decision to leave due to a life-changing heart attack, which prompted him to reassess his priorities. Following this announcement, Bush received an overwhelming response from the community, including numerous inquiries and offers from interested buyers.
In a discussion on WPR’s “The Larry Meiller Show,” Bush revealed that he is open to selling the business. “I decided, if I can choose … the person who’s going to run it the way that I do it, and have the same ethos and sense of community, I would consider (selling),” he stated.
Despite his commitment to becoming a chaplain, Bush remains deeply connected to the paddling community fostered by Rutabaga. He plans to continue organizing the annual Canoecopia event and intends to assist with the business part-time during any transition in ownership.
Maintaining Rutabaga’s community-centric values is crucial for Bush as he considers potential buyers. “If it’s a couple of private equity bros who want to plaything,” he expressed, he would reject the offer. However, he remains optimistic, noting that those interested are drawn by the community aspect Rutabaga represents.
News of his willingness to sell has sparked further interest and outreach. Bush likened his situation to a famous movie, saying, “I feel like George Bailey at the end of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’” and emphasized, “‘No man is poor who has friends.’”
Editor’s note: Rutabaga Paddlesports is a WPR business sponsor.
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