Confluence Outdoor Appoints Rick Karr General Manager of Boardworks

January 23, 2017

CARLSBAD, Calif. (January 23, 2017) – Confluence Outdoor names SUP industry veteran Rick Karr as General Manager of Boardworks, a surf and stand up paddleboard (SUP) brand out of Carlsbad, California known for its innovative and award-winning boards, paddles and accessories.

In his new role, Karr will oversee and manage all aspects of the Boardworks business from brand development to retail initiatives.

“While there are challenges in the overall SUP category, Rick has the skillset, leadership and market fluency to ensure a solid foundation for the growth of the Boardworks brand,” said Sue Rechner, CEO of Confluence Outdoor. “Rick’s hire underscores our mission to build Boardworks’ leadership position in the category. We firmly believe in Boardworks and are fully committed to delivering for our retailers, strengthening the brand and driving success in the category.”

The 2015 acquisition of Boardworks set the stage for Confluence Outdoor’s commitment to expand into the SUP category. Karr is the latest of several investments into building out the future of the Boardworks brand.

Karr is deeply intertwined with the SUP and surf world. He grew up on Hawaii, moved to Southern California at age 12 where he surfed, SUPed and sailed. In 2008, he founded Rogue SUP, a highly respected brand known for its performance SUP products.

“I’m stoked to transform Boardworks into one of SUP industry’s true powerhouse brands,” said Karr. “Boardworks has what it takes to weather any challenges including support from the Confluence organization and an experienced team to take the business to the next level.”

About Confluence Outdoor®

Confluence Outdoor is the result of the blending of eight unique watersports brands: Wilderness Systems®, Perception®, Dagger®, Mad River Canoe®, Adventure Technology® paddles, Harmony® accessories, Wave Sport®, and Boardworks Surf®. With a full representation of canoes, kayaks, surf and stand up paddle boards, and a wide range of paddlesports accessories—ranging from touring and recreational to high-performance fishing and whitewater products, the Confluence brands can fully outfit paddling enthusiasts throughout all phases of their paddling life. Confluence Outdoor is located in Greenville, S.C. where they are proud to manufacture all of their boats. For more information about the company, visit www.confluenceoutdoor.com

Wilderness Systems · Perception · Dagger · Mad River Canoe · Harmony · Adventure Technology · Wave Sport · Boardworks

MEDIA CONTACT:
Lisa Mullen
Verde Brand Communications
lisa@verdepr.com
970.259.3555