In an effort to drive growth for the entire paddlesports industry, the Paddlesports Industry Association (PIA) and the Trade Association of Paddlesports (TAPS) launched a consumer focused Web site, www.LetsGoPaddle.com at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, which ends today at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City, Utah.
“In 2007 both industry associations agreed it was time to work together on a campaign that had the potential to significantly grow the paddling industry,” said Michael Pardy, executive director for TAPS. “In the last year we put together a site that is not only a valuable source to enthusiast paddlers but is also a great way to drive new or first time paddlers to the industry’s best manufacturers, retailers and outfitters.”
Tools and resources available on the site include:
- List of paddling destinations and events;
- Paddling trip planning resources, including fun activities for kids;
- Advice for buying and renting equipment; and
- Paddle Community where visitors can share tips, stories and get advice.
LetsGoPaddle.com targets active women (ages 25 to 45) who are interested in engaging their families in new outdoor activities including canoeing, kayaking and rafting. The site also targets any active adult (ages 35-54) that already has a predisposition towards outdoor activities.
“The Internet marketing strategy behind the Let’s Go Paddle Web site and the site itself is the first of its kind for the paddling industry as a whole,” said Matt Menashes, president and CEO of the Paddlesports Industry Association. “Instead of competing against each other for the same slice of the enthusiast pie, the industry is coming together to grow the pie by increasing the number of people paddling.”
The design and construction of LetsGoPaddle.com, along with the branding and logo for the campaign, was created by Siquis Limited, a full service advertising and design firm based in Baltimore, MD.
The Paddlesports Industry Association (PIA) and Trade Association of Paddlesports (TAPS) are nonprofit trade associations serving the paddlesports industry. Members of the two associations include outfitters, liveries, retailers, manufacturers and other professionals involved in paddlesports. Their members are dedicated to providing paddlers with the best in equipment, services and experiences. For more information please visit www.paddlesportsindustry.org (PIA) and www.gopaddle.org (TAPS).
