*This article is a highlight of the YouTube interview between Kyle MacNall and Andre Garibay, the owner of Bison Outdoor.

Watch the full interview here at www.YouTube.com/@SurplusToday

Video Link Here!!

A Conversation with Andre “The Bison” Garibay

In an industry shaped by constant change and growing competition, Andre “The Bison” Garibay has built his reputation on something more enduring: relationships, reliability, and purpose. As the founder of Bison Outdoor, Andre brings decades of experience and a deeply personal philosophy to the Army-Navy and tactical gear space. We caught up with Andre to talk about his journey, the mission behind Bison Outdoor, and why he remains committed to supporting the independent retailer.

A Foundation in Community and Service

Andre’s path into the industry is rooted in a lifetime of service and connection. Born and raised in Chicago, he attended boarding school in Wisconsin before continuing to Loyola University and eventually joining the United States Marine Corps. “Community has always been a major part of my life,” Andre says. “From school to the Marines to this industry, it’s always been about being part of something bigger and serving others.”

That mindset carried into his professional career, where he spent years learning the surplus business, building relationships, and developing a passion for the industry and the people in it.

Finding Opportunity in a Changing Market

After decades in the field, Andre saw the industry evolving and not always in ways that benefited traditional retailers. “Independent dealers are under more pressure than ever,” he explains. “You’ve got big-box stores, online giants, and even manufacturers going direct to consumer. Everyone’s competing at every level.”

Rather than step away, Andre leaned in. He launched Bison Outdoor with a clear mission: support the independent retailer, not compete with them. “We don’t sell direct to the end user that’s our retailers’ job,” he says. “Our role is to provide them with reliable, purpose-driven products they can stand behind.”

A Brand Defined by Values

At its core, Bison Outdoor is built on three principles: trust, loyalty, and commitment.

Andre believes those values are increasingly rare and increasingly necessary. “There’s a gap in the market when it comes to relationships,” he says. “We’re here to bring that back. When someone does business with us, they’re going to feel that from day one.”

That approach extends beyond transactions. Andre emphasizes listening to retailers, to customers, and to the realities of the market. “We take feedback seriously. We talk to people, we learn from them, and we build products that reflect what they actually need.”

Designed Through Real-World Experience

Bison Outdoor gear reflects Andre’s background in the field. Rather than designing from theory, his team focuses on solving practical problems. “When you’ve worn the gear, you understand where it fails and what needs to improve,” he says.

That insight shows up in thoughtful design choices reinforced stress points, enhanced padding for long-term comfort, and small but meaningful features like quick-access storage integrated into shoulder straps. “These are things you don’t always think about until you need them,” Andre explains. “But once you have them, they make a big difference.”

The company’s product line remains intentionally focused, offering a curated selection of packs, ponchos, and tactical essentials. Each item is built with durability and affordability in mind, giving retailers a product they can confidently offer their customers.
Proven Performance

Bison Outdoor has also prioritized third-party validation, with products earning approval from the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA). “That means the gear has been tested by professionals who rely on it in real situations,” Andre says. “There’s no room for second-guessing when it matters most.” For him, that recognition reinforces the company’s commitment to quality and dependability.

Looking Ahead

While still growing, Bison Outdoor is already building momentum. Andre continues to develop new products, guided by feedback from both retailers and end users. “This industry doesn’t stand still,” he says. “You have to adapt and keep moving forward.”

At the same time, he’s focused on giving back an initiative that remains central to the company’s future. “Our goal is to align with organizations that support the men and women who serve, and their families,” he says. “That’s something we’re actively working toward.”

A Personal Commitment

For Andre, Bison Outdoor isn’t just a business, it’s a personal investment in the industry he cares about.
“I put everything into this,” he says. “This is something I truly believe in.”

That belief is reflected in his hands-on approach and his willingness to stand alongside the retailers he serves. “I’m a straight shooter,” he adds. “I’ll do whatever I can to support this community.”

Final Thoughts

In a competitive and rapidly evolving market, Bison Outdoor stands out by focusing on fundamentals: strong relationships, dependable gear, and a clear sense of purpose. For Andre, success isn’t just about growth, it’s about impact.

“At the end of the day, I’m here to serve,” he says. “That’s what this is all about.”