As North America’s largest paddlesports retailer in Canada’s largest city, The Complete Paddler has been positioned for the past 15 years to entice paddling enthusiasts out on the water. Nova Craft Canoe has been a leader in Canadian canoe manufacturing for over 50 years. Through this acquisition, consumers have a direct link between the boats they love and the retailer from whom they can purchase.
The Complete Paddler’s Kelly McDowell will remain in his role as president and shareholder.
“These are exciting times for The Complete Paddler, and we are looking forward to having Chris on board to help facilitate new growth for us,” McDowell said.
Though primarily a canoe manufacturer, Nova Craft Canoe owns and operates its own retail store, London’s Paddle Shop, in London, ON, which sells kayaks, paddles and accessories in addition to its own line of Canadian-made canoes. Nova Craft Canoe has been under the ownership of Chris Rath since January 31, 2019.
McDowell added, “At The Complete Paddler, we believe this new partnership will assist us with our continued devotion to providing the highest quality gear and customer service to both new and experienced paddlers alike. Our store offerings won’t change — we’ll remain as a dealer for all manner of paddlesports equipment from a multitude of manufacturers. Now we will be able to do so from a place of stability in an ever-changing market that has seen enormous shifts in trends over the past few decades. We welcome and embrace a world where everyone can become a paddler. To our loyal existing customers and to those we look forward to meeting, we can’t wait to help you keep your paddle in the water and the open side up.”
