Kokatat, a manufacturer of paddling gear and protective garments for government and military customers, is expanding its manufacturing and warehouse facilities in Arcata, CA—a move that will generate an estimated 30 engineering and production jobs at its headquarters.
Kokatat’s expansion includes an additional 7,500 square feet of production space and 3,000 additional square feet of warehouse and shipping. All told, the additional space will increase the footprint of Kokatat’s headquarters by 40 percent.
“By growing our space and team here in Arcata, we will be able to better support the growth we’ve seen in both our outdoor sports and government business sectors,” said Jeff Turner, Kokatat’s director of sales. “More than 90 percent of our annual revenues are generated by the garments we make here in Arcata. Our commitment to domestic manufacturing is vital to our continued growth.”
Kokatat has been firmly committed to domestic manufacturing beginning with Founder and President Steve O’Meara, who recognized from the company’s founding in 1971 that keeping production local was required to control quality and the highest quality paddling apparel. The brand’s commitment also supports Kokatat’s ability to supply U.S. government entities with protective garments for those working in dangerous environments.
“We’ve proven for 50 years that keeping our production in the United States allows us to adhere to the highest levels of quality and functionality,” said Turner. “This expansion allows us to deepen our devotion to making the best paddling and protective gear available.”
Photo courtesy Kokotat
