Thuasne Group expands with second California company

BAKERSFIELD

January 26, 2016 9:03pm

The Thuasne Group, owner of Townsend Design of Bakersfield, which makes orthopedic knee and leg braces, says it has bought Quinn Medical LLC, a spinal bracing company based in San Clemente. Financial terms of the deal were not announced. Founded by Allwyn and Todd Thornton, Quinn Medical has approximately 20 employees and a hybrid sales force that includes direct and independent representatives.

Quinn Medical began selling their spinal therapy system in 2011. Its braces were the first in the industry to feature a universal one-size design, with a method for adjusting the circumferential length of the brace to accommodate virtually any size patient. The technology is prescribed for injuries, post-surgical treatment and mobility limiters, providing stabilization to help people get back In motion. "Quinn has meticulously merged product design, materials and manufacturing to create superior functionality and comfort. This is exactly our business strategy and success factor at Thuasne," says Elizabeth Ducottet, owner of the group. "We are very pleased that Thuasne USA now includes two very respected American companies that fabricate premium orthopedic products that enhance physical motion, daily mobility, and quality of life."

The purchase increases Thuasne's investment in the U.S. market and diversifies the portfolio of orthopedic products available through its European subsidiaries and global network of medical device distributors. The Thuasne Group and its 15 subsidiary companies are owned by Ms. Ducottet and her three children, who serve in management positions and are the sixth generation owner operators of the company. Thuasne (pronounced Two Ann) has annual sales of over $200 million.

Founded in France in 1847, Thuasne has over 1,800 employees and subsidiary companies throughout Europe. In 2011, Thuasne purchased Townsend Design, which has 175 employees and is based in Bakersfield.

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