Rebel Kayaks' first season draws to a
close and it's time to take stock.
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| Paddle Expo 2014. photo: J.K. |
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-It more or less all started for
Rebel
Kayaks when we showed a kayak at
Paddle Expo, (a kayak fair in
Germany, in 2013). The response was greater than expected and we went
home strengthened by the experience;
What spurred us most was that the
requests came from well established retailers with many years in the
industry. It was something we hoped for (when) knowing that
appreciation of quality also means longevity and good service.
We were aware that our production would
be limited so we made that clear to our prospective customers and
dealers but what we were not prepared for was that the "T"
model would sell in greater numbers than "Ilaga".
Our mould maker unfortunately broke his
leg in the middle of the start-up of production, The leg is now
healed and the kayaks delivered So every thing worked out well, even
if it was tight sometimes.
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| Mark and Helen |
Friends like Helen Wilson and Mark
Tozer used our kayaks on their "Nordic Tour" clinics; that,
of course, helped a lot to create awareness for our kayaks and show
them off, while our PFDs and our wooden paddles have also been well
received.
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| photo: J.K. |
So all together:
We have all helped each other, and
relations have been strengthened between all involved which feels
extra good. We did not rush the production of the kayaks and warranty
claims have been almost none.
This was also reflected when we met
most of our retailers at this year's Paddle Expo, and it has been
confirmed many times directly from those that now own and paddle a
"Rebel".
What happens next?
-Yes, we are planning to increase the
production somewhat. Now we are prepared for the disparity in sales
between the models and we hope to keep a small stock for next Year.
We will also expand our catalogue with
more kayak models over time. Drawing from my previous experiences,
the new kayaks will not be presented until they are in production,
with rigorous test paddling and adjustments prior production
completed !!
Many people have been in touch with me
desiring the release of some of the previous kayaks I designed, which
are no longer manufactured. We are obviously both honoured and
delighted, but since we are a small manufacturer with limited
resources, we must consider every step carefully.
Rebel Kayak is on the way!
Johan Wirsén
Photos by: Eva Finder, Mark Tozer & Janusz Kowalski
