When Barrett Firearms posted a press release during the SHOT Show announcing that NIOA Group, an Australian global munitions company, had purchased the renowned Tennessee rifle company, speculation rippled across the trade-show floor.
Ronnie Barrett, founder and now former owner of Barrett Firearms, was there to allay any worries that this news was bad for Barrett Firearms.
He sat down with the NRA’s America’s 1st Freedom to explain the sale on camera. Barrett was quick to explain that not only are Barrett Firearms’ jobs staying in Tennessee, but that NIOA has plans to expand the U.S. facility long known for high-quality, long-range rifles.
Ronnie Barrett explained that Barrett Firearms has “a longstanding relationship with NIOA, and we have a lot in common.”
All management and staff at the Tennessee manufacturing facility have been retained and production will continue as normal; meanwhile, Ronnie Barrett and Chris Barrett will provide ongoing support as executive advisers to Barrett and the NIOA Group.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Barrett story,” says Ronnie Barrett. “The NIOA team has great respect for the legacy Barrett has created as the leader in long-range precision rifles. It’s reassuring to know Barrett will be in good hands with a family owned company that is focused on manufacturing and delivering world-class firearms and munitions to a global network.”