Paddlesports industry leaders gathered in Bentonville, AR, from January 25 to 27, for a leadership summit where the group approved the formation of a new national trade organization.
The Paddlesports Trade Coalition will bring manufacturers, distributors, sales representatives, retailers, and media together to grow paddlesports in North America and to monitor and engage in relevant federal and state legislation, water access issues, sustainability practices, and other matters related to the category.
“It is time for the paddlesports community to come together and have its own voice so we can expand our sport and make it more accessible and inviting to more people,” said Ed Vater, retired president of Aqua Bound/ Bending Branches and the moderator of the two-day summit.
Along with the unanimous vote to form the coalition, a steering committee was created to prepare a formal draft proposal for forming the coalition and undertake the initial steps in formalizing the organization.
The organization has defined “paddlesports” to include all modes of human and electric-powered personal watercraft, including canoes and kayaks, SUP (stand-up paddle), pedal drives, and electric-drive-powered personal watercraft.
The summit attracted representatives from 30 paddlesports brands and manufacturers. It was sponsored by Visit Bentonville, the local tourism bureau, and Runway Group, a holding company investing in real estate, outdoor initiatives, hospitality, and businesses committed to making Northwest Arkansas the best place to live.
“Thanks to Bentonville for hosting us and giving us a venue for our industry to come together and create the foundation for the future of paddlesports in North America,” said Scott Holley, president of Eddyline.
Brands represented at the summit included Aire, Inc. Whitewater Division, Angle Oar, LLC, AquaBound/Bending Branches, Aquaglide, Big Adventures (Native Watercraft, Bonafide, Liquidlogic, Hurricane Kayaks), Boonedox, Canyon Coolers, Diablo Paddlesports, Down River Equipment, Eddyline Kayaks, Esquif, Grey Duck Outdoor, Hobie Kayaks, Jackson Kayak, Kokatat, Inc., Level Six, Malone Auto Racks, Mustang Survival, NRS, Old Town/ Ocean Kayak/ Carlisle Paddles, Pau Hana Surf Supply, RailBlaza, Sawyer Paddles and Oars, Sea-Dog, Sea-Lect Designs, Seals Sprayskirts & Accessories, Suspenz, Wenonah Canoe, Current Designs Kayak, Werner Paddles, Yak Attack, and Yak Power.
Photo courtesy Paddlesports Trade Coalition
