Interview : Peter Tranter Photos : Silverbirch Canoes We last interviewed Steve Childs over 10 years ago to speak about how he was proud to be a UK manufacturer and determined to keep it that way . In those 11 years , much has happened in the UK and internationally that affects small and large businesses . We have heard that while Steve is still manufacturing his canoes and kayaks in Norfolk , he will change how he sells and markets them . So , it was time to catch up with the ex-GB freestyler and learn more . Take it away , Steve …
PADDLER
A chat with … Steve
CHILDS
Interview : Peter Tranter Photos : Silverbirch Canoes We last interviewed Steve Childs over 10 years ago to speak about how he was proud to be a UK manufacturer and determined to keep it that way . In those 11 years , much has happened in the UK and internationally that affects small and large businesses . We have heard that while Steve is still manufacturing his canoes and kayaks in Norfolk , he will change how he sells and markets them . So , it was time to catch up with the ex-GB freestyler and learn more . Take it away , Steve …
HELLO AGAIN , STEVE . PLEASE GIVE US A SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE LAST TEN YEARS , AND WE ’ LL DISCUSS IT IN MORE DETAIL WITH THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS .
The last ten years have been a whirlwind of challenges and successes . There have been profound personal hurdles along the way , moments where everything felt uncertain , but paddling and the incredible community surrounding it have been my anchor . It ’ s what kept me moving forward . During this time , we ’ ve seen significant growth in the brands we ’ ve developed and nurtured , like Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks , and we ’ ve also expanded our group to include incredible names like Hou Canoes and Verano inflatables . Throughout it all , we ’ ve focused on innovation , quality , and sustainability – pushing the boundaries of what ’ s possible in paddling .
PADDLER
31