Paddles are flowing out of the Bending Branches Paddle manufacturing facility in Osceola, WI. After launching a complete line of compression and injection-molded composite kayak paddles at the 2002 Outdoor Retailer show, dealer response was so good that the company closed its Hockey Division in February 2003 to open capacity for paddle production. It was a smart move, as Bending Branches recorded 87% growth over the course of the year.
“The change in focus has made all the difference,” said Sales and Marketing Manager Jake Wisse. “Our reps have did a tremendous job of getting new products into stores. We've been able to respond to the needs of our dealer base by ensuring quick delivery. Our quality is better than ever. And Dale Kicker, our president, has been researching and developing even more innovations for 2005.”
The injection and compression-molded kayak paddle line lists from $60 retail to $300 retail, and includes new products such as Aluminum Crank Shafts for $130 and Aluminum Straight Shafts with cushy foam grips for $90. “The recreational paddler wants to be comfortable. You see it in the new kayak seats and the PFDs that are coming out, so we're designing paddles with that in mind,” said Kicker.
The focus is paying off, with growth in its established wood canoe and kayak paddle line as well as the new composite line, and the addition of over 100 new dealers across the United States.
