This is an interesting question. I think the first step to answering this question would be to ask a question. Are you an outdoor enthusiast?
If no, than I would not recommend working for Black Diamond because it is an outdoor company full of just outdoor people and it would be a rather rough fit.
If yes, we can talk further. Black Diamond is certainly not a new company and thus has a solid track record of positive net income and has weather more than its fair share of financial storms. It can only be assumed that the work environment is easy going and fun while maintaining and attitude to achieve their goals. If one is worried about weather Black Diamond is going to be a long term fit as far as a sustainable career is concerned I do not believe there is any cause for concern. It is true that 2015 was a hard year for them financially but 2016 has been successful and the projections for 2017 look even better. I would highly recommend joining the Black Diamond family if you are looking for a career that is going to take over your life in a good way.
Would you recommend this company for investment?
This is an interesting question. I think the first step to answering this question would be to ask a question. What type of investment are you looking for? Are you looking for a short term investment that will sell high in a few month and give big returns? Or are you looking for a long term investment that will stay relatively stable to diversify your portfolio?
If you are looking for a short term investment I would say that BDE would not be a good fit for you. That being side the BDE closed at $5.75 today so it might be a good time to buy if you are willing to weather the financial storm that Black Diamond are currently battling. Due to the increase in the buying power of the USD as it compares to other foreign currencies international sales are down and have been for the past two years. As would be expected Black Diamond are optimistic about what the future holds but without some major change in the industry trends I don't think that BDE will be trading high in the near future.
If you are looking for a longer term investment that is relatively stable I think BDE would be a good pick. As stated early it is currently trading at $5.75 which is a good price to buy in at and over the past 10 years has had its ups and downs but from the data I have collected all signs point to the next 10 years being good for Black Diamond Inc. I would say that for a long term investment that BDE is a good pick.
Additional Recommendations
All direct questions aside I honestly think Black Diamond is a solid company. I understand that while looking at the financials it may appear that they have been performing poorly, however Black Diamond believe their stock is undervalued and has been purchasing outstanding shares. That fact paired with the fact that they conduct they business both sales and manufacturing in an eco-friendly manner would lead me to believe that in the coming years where fossil fuels become more expensive and consumes become more conscious about how their products are made and where the materials are sourced. A company that conducts itself ethically and responsible will be the first consumers go to when they are looking for their outdoor gear needs. This will lead to consumer loyalty as well as high sales volumes domestically as well as internationally.