Feelfree Kayaks reacts to ‘dramatically changed’ retail landscape

Paddle sports shop Waterways has opened two additional concept store locations in partnership with Feelfree US, a national distributor of kayaks based in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Carolina.

The additional stores will sell kayaks and accessories designed for fishing and recreational use by Feelfree Kayaks and its brands, Seastream Kayaks, 3 Waters Kayaks and Jonny Boats.

They will also be used as locations for seminars and special events for local fishing and recreation communities.

The two sites were chosen for the support of Feelfree’s brands and dealers and will double as regional distribution centres for statewide dealers of all Feelfree’s brands.

“The retail landscape has changed dramatically over the last several years – combined with the increased cost and timing associated with shipping,” said Jim Hager, owner of Feelfree US. “This distribution strategy is designed to mitigate costs and reduce the amount of time it takes dealers to obtain products for their customers.”

Joe Mongno, Retail Operations and Merchandising Director, said that the stores allowed Feelfree to ramp up new and established dealers. “It allows them to pick up fill-in orders and quickly see and add new products as they are made available,” he added.