Bell Canoe Works announced its newest recipient of the “Dealer of the Year” Award. Raquette River Outfitters of Tupper Lake, New York is the recipient for 2005. The award is presented each year to the dealer that best represents the criteria set forth by the staff and representatives of Bell Canoe Works.
The decision is never an easy one according to National Sales Manager, Dennis Davidson. Bell Canoe Works is proud to boast a strong network of fine quality retailers across the country and around the world. Davidson stated, “Usually we start with five or six nominations and pare it down. The debate can get pretty intense. Sometimes we even let Ted (the owner) win!”
Numerous factors are weighed during the consideration process. The “Dealer of the Year” is not simply the shop that stocks the most Bell canoes or accessories but the one that provides consistent knowledgeable service and support to its customer base. Raquette River is a dealer who truly represents the strengths of a specialty retailer. Owners Rob Frenette and Anne Fleck combine over 20 years of experience to provide service at all stages of the sale. The shop performs repairs and installs options on-site. Customers can test paddle canoes right out the door of the shop.
Raquette River Outfitters offers full service outfitting for the Adirondack Mountain Region and beyond. Their shop is nestled right on Tupper Lake in a location whose beauty is second to none.
Past dealers of the year have included (in order): Carls Paddlin (Madison WI) 1998, Mountainman Outdoor Supply Co. (Inlet NY) 1999, Alder Creek (Bend OR) 2000, Hoigaards (St Louis Park MN) 2001, Piragis Northwoods Co. (Ely MN) 2002, Midwest Mountaineering (Minneapolis MN) 2003, Wooden Boat (Rosbach, Germany) 2004
