multi-generational business , SH Distributing has come a long way since its start as a distributor . Thanks to the founder , Scott Harklau , and a close team of three that keeps the place running day-to-day , the manufacturer offers top-notch service , frequent communication and a variety of land and sea trailers for consumers to choose from .
In Ohio , Scott Harklau founded SH Distributing to distribute Yacht Club Trailers , a trailer brand founded by Roger and Dean Harklau . After years of working closely with his family , he made the decision to split off as a wholesale distributor in 1991 .
“ Distribution is how our company started , so we have really good control over delivery time ,” explained Harklau . “ Now , we ’ re running sixteen semi-trailers and seven trucks .”
Initially , the company largely distributed pontoon and snow trailers . Sticking to its aquatic theme , the company then added ShoreMaster docks and lifts to its offerings . When Yacht Club , discontinued building utility and snow trailers , Harklau began to manufacture his own utility line , the first of his Sport Haven line . It was the start of major growth for the company .
“ We ’ re marine-based ,” he revealed . “ That ’ s where we got our start , but we are expanding our Sport Haven manufacturing side , too .”
SH Distribution ’ s entrance into manufacturing other trailers , however , was not so lucky . Unpredictably , misfortune recently fell on Harklau ’ s key supplier . Last fall , Yacht Club had a major fire , leading to mass destruction in their manufacturing facility .
“ The place just about burnt down ,” Harklau remembered . “ We needed product , so we started our own line of pontoon and watercraft trailers called Shore Haven . Luckily , Yacht Club was able to rebuild their facility very quickly and continue to supply us with product . SH Distributing now carries Yacht Club along with its own Shore Haven line .”
58 NATDA Magazine www . natda . org