Bell Canoe Works announced a decision to expand its market
in Madison, WI. The Minnesota-based canoe and accessory company reached an agreement with nationally renowned retailer Rutabaga Paddlesports to distribute the full line of Bell canoes and accessories. Distribution begins
immediately in Fall 2004 with full representation by Spring 2005.
“We approached Rutabaga with the goal of growing the Bell name in what we
think is one of the strongest canoe markets in the nation,” stated Craig
Johnson, Bell Sales Manager. Johnson furthered, “A top-notch brand like Bell
belongs in a world class shop like Rutabaga.”
Rutabaga Paddlesports is co-owned by Darren Bush and Jeff Weidman. The shop
is staffed by paddlers, many of whom are closet Bell fans. “It's great to
have Bell back in Rutabaga,” said Weidman, alluding to the fact that years
ago Rutabaga carried Bell. “The boats are beautiful, and we love doing
business with a local manufacturer with roots in the Midwest,” Weidman
added.
“In our experience, Bell owners are passionate about canoeing and about
their own canoes. Many of our friends and customers paddle Bell Canoes, and
they've been asking us for years when we're going to carry them, and now
we're pleased we can say 'this season.' We're doing everything we can to
support the Bell brand and the loyal Bell enthusiast,” stated Darren Bush.
