It can be difficult to find motivation to go outside and get moving for a bike ride or a jog, especially during a global pandemic that’s working to keep everyone cooped up indoors. But there’s always a way to make the best of a tough situation, and Outside, formerly Pocket Outdoor Media, is looking to provide some inspiration.
The digital media company publishes active lifestyle content across television, mobile, desktop and print outlets from a range of brands including Backpacker, Yoga Journal and Paleo. After securing a $150 million Series B raise led by Sequoia Heritage, it’s working to expand its audience and range of services with five new acquisitions.
Joining its line-up are adventure content producer Outside Integrated Media, outdoor lifestyle station Outside TV, navigation app Gaia GPS, event registration platform athleteReg and cycling magazine Peloton. The capital from investors and the acquisition transactions will fuel Outside’s investments in its audience, technology and product development.
“This is a transformational day for our company and our customers,” Robin Thurston, Outside’s CEO, said in a statement. “Everything we do is driven by a belief that a hike, run, ride or yoga practice can change your life, and these new brands will help us fulfill our mission to build the world’s best consumer experience across a wide range of activities.”
In addition to having more creative minds at its disposal to further its platform, Outside anticipates bringing new benefits to its Active Pass membership. The program provides access to digital content, print subscriptions, discounts on gear, interactive experiences with athletic industry professionals and more.
Outside’s headcount now reaches 450 with the addition of its new team members. As it continues to grow, the company has several job listings on its site for both remote and in-person positions based out of its Boulder headquarters. It’s hiring within various departments including engineering, marketing and product.
