Riverstar International
July 24, 2014
COLUMBIA, SC- Riverstar International, an export management company for US manufacturers, has recently appointed BnK Sports as the exclusive South Korean distributor of Charleston, South Carolina-based Folbot, the premier manufacturer of folding kayaks.
Folbot folding kayaks are full-size kayaks that fold up for easy transport and storage. In 2012, Eric Thome acquired the 81 year-old business with a growth plan that included a lean manufacturing implementation and international expansion. While focused on domestic sales and operations, Folbot contracted Riverstar International in November 2013 to manage and grow international sales.
“Each international target for exports has a unique set of opportunities and challenges and we felt it best to use a partner that had experience and expertise in reaching these markets and managing the export process,” explains Thome. “Riverstar International has shown they understand how to market our brand and product. Additionally, they handle all the logistics of shipping overseas. Folbot receives
increased awareness and sales and a reduced burden to reach the global community.”
Bnk Sports of Pyeongtaek-si, South Korea specializes in the distribution of bicycle and kayak products in South Korea. “The demand for water sports is rapidly increasing in Korea,” says BnK Sports CEO Ryan Lee, “and we are confident about the excellence of Folbot kayaks and its sales potential in Korea.” BnK Sports considers the growing kayak market in Korea as key to its future business and has sought premium brands to market and distribute. Folbot’s unique range of folding kayaks fills a special niche in the market for adventurers and storage/transportation-constrained kayakers.
“BnK Sports placed a substantial stocking order and is now poised to effectively serve customers in South Korea as a proper dealer/distributor,” according to John Wilkinson of Riverstar International. “It’s always exciting to see small US manufacturers like Folbot grow their business through exports sales and we are also currently in negotiations with potential Folbot distributors in the Philippines, United Kingdom, and several other countries.”
Riverstar International’s founder, Jerry Smith, adds, “While Eric and the Folbot team are focused on domestic sales, lean manufacturing implementation, and new product development, Riverstar International is able to focus exclusively on Folbot’s international expansion.”
About Folbot
Folbot has been handcrafting folding kayaks since 1933. Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Folbot builds a variety of folding kayaks that range from 10’ to 17’ in length. No more lugging a heavy kayak around – Folbots fit in a backpack and unfold in minutes. Learn more at www.folbot.com
About Riverstar International
Riverstar International is an export management company that exclusively works with US manufacturers to open international channels of distribution. The company offers a full range of services including market development, sales and financing tools, and supply chain
management. Learn more at www.riverstarinternational.com
