BUTTE, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte last week visited UDAP Industries, Inc., a small business in Butte specializing in the manufacturing of bear spray and personal defense products.
“As Montanans, we have endless opportunity to explore our vast lands, but with it comes a great responsibility for personal safety,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Having learned from a life-threatening, first-hand experience, Mark has gone on to showcase his commitment to safety and innovation through his products sold across the country. It’s great to highlight a Montana business and a great Made in Montana product.”
UDAP Industries, Inc. was founded by Mark Matheny after a life-altering experience in the Montana backcountry. In 1992, while hunting near Yellowstone National Park, Matheny survived a grizzly bear attack thanks to a canister of pepper spray used by his hunting partner.
That experience led him to develop a more effective and reliable bear deterrent, launching what is now Grizzly Guard, a company known for producing some of the most trusted bear spray on the market.
Visting the manufacturing facility on Wednesday, the governor spoke with Matheny about his experience and the growth of his business. “If I save one person’s life with this product, it’s all worth it,” Matheny said.
With over 20 employees, UDAP Industries sells its products to distributors across the country including to retailers such as Costco, Cabella’s, Sportsman’s Warehouse, and Murdoch’s.
To learn more about the product and about UDAP Industries, see here.
Source: Gov. Gianforte’s Office
