VANCOUVER, Oct. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Calling legendary Dayton Boot brand "one of the most authentic footwear brands to come out of North America this past century -- a Canadian-born original with a proud history, a bright future and a loyal customer base," Stephen Encarnacao announced today that he has purchased controlling interest in Dayton Boots Enterprises, Inc.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091005/NE85519 )

Encarnacao, Dayton's CEO since 2008, recognized the potential to bring Dayton to a wider audience in Canada, the U.S., Europe and Asia. He expects revenues to double in FY 2010.

"I'm excited about the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games as a wonderful opportunity to showcase the quality and durability of Canadian hand-crafted footwear to the world," he said.

"I feel very fortunate to have discovered Dayton and its storied history. For more than two decades, I have been searching for a footwear company that could match the excitement I experienced as the chief marketing executive for a little known brand back in the 80's called Reebok."

"I'm certain that Dayton represents a similar opportunity. Both brands started simply: Reebok created the first track spike in England in 1895 and Dayton started building durable, handcrafted work boots for the lumberjacks of British Columbia in 1946. Charlie Wohlford's dedication led eventually to cult status for Dayton as manufacturer of the world's finest motorcycle boots.

"The art and craft of shoemaking was extremely important to both founders, and continues to be of paramount importance today at the Dayton heritage factory in East Vancouver.

"Shoemaking has changed significantly in the intervening 63 years, but Dayton's passion for making the highest quality hand-crafted boots and footwear in the world right here in Vancouver has not. We'll continue to bring that passion, attention to detail and craftsmanship to our planned product line expansion," he said.

While Encarnacao has purchased controlling interest, "the revised corporate structure reserves a significant portion of the Company's equity so existing Dayton shareholders, future equity partners, and employees benefit from our anticipated success," he added

Dayton will continue to operate its wholesale business and retail showroom out of its offices and factory on East Hastings Street in Vancouver. Dayton currently employs 18 people.

SOURCE Dayton Boots Enterprises, Inc.