Imagine a world where business growth and environmental conservation go hand in hand. Sounds too good to be true? Cox Enterprises is turning this vision into reality with the launch of Cox Outdoors, a bold new venture dedicated to outdoor recreation and conservation. But here’s where it gets exciting: this isn’t just about selling gear—it’s about preserving the wild places that make life richer for all of us. On December 9, 2025, Cox Enterprises (https://www.coxenterprises.com/) unveiled Cox Outdoors, a strategic move that unites two powerhouse brands: Loop Tackle (https://www.looptackle.com/en-us/), a leader in fly-fishing equipment with a mission to protect wild fish and habitats, and KUIU (https://www.kuiu.com/), a pioneer in cutting-edge outdoor performance gear. By bringing these companies under one umbrella, Cox Outdoors aims to scale their impact, crafting products that not only take adventurers deeper into nature but also inspire action to safeguard it for future generations. And this is the part most people miss: Cox sees this as just the beginning of its foray into the $37 billion outdoor market, with plans for further investments that align with its conservation goals.
Alex Taylor, chairman and CEO of Cox Enterprises, puts it passionately: “Cox Outdoors is our way of diversifying into industries that allow us to make a meaningful difference in the world. Conservation is at the heart of this initiative—protecting the wild places that enrich our lives and caring for our planet has never been more critical.” This sentiment echoes Cox’s broader commitment to sustainability, which includes over $325 million in contributions to environmental causes through the James M. Cox Foundation and Cox Enterprises, as well as $2 billion invested in cleantech businesses.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a corporation truly balance profit with conservation? Cox Outdoors believes it can, and it’s putting its money where its mouth is. Led by Will Thorburn, a 15-year Cox veteran with a background in cleantech and strategic investments, Cox Outdoors is positioning itself as a bridge between people and nature. “As our lives become increasingly digital, we’re investing in companies that help people reconnect with the wilderness and share stories that inspire action,” Thorburn explains. His vision? To ensure that wild places remain wild for generations to come.
Cox Outdoors joins the ranks of Cox’s other industry-focused segments, such as Cox Farms (home to BrightFarms and Mucci Farms) and Cox Automotive (which includes brands like Autotrader and Kelly Blue Book). Each segment reflects Cox’s strategy of consolidating expertise to drive innovation and impact. With Cox Outdoors, the company is not just entering a new market—it’s redefining what it means to be a responsible corporate player in the outdoor industry.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Can businesses like Cox Outdoors truly lead the charge in conservation, or is this just another example of greenwashing? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective. One thing’s for sure: Cox Enterprises is betting big on a future where profit and planet protection go hand in hand. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a conservation advocate, or just someone who cares about the planet, Cox Outdoors is a venture worth watching. To learn more about Cox’s mission and impact, visit coxenterprises.com.
