Smartgyro has announced a significant milestone in the company's U.S. expansion with the signing of three new distributors and the appointment of a dedicated Technical Sales Manager in the country.
The gyro stabilizer technology company has finalized agreements with Mastry Engine Center in Florida, Mack Boring & Parts Co. in New Jersey, and Boatswain's Locker in California. The three new Smartgyro distributors, who are strategic partner YANMAR's key distributors, will utilize YANMAR's existing North American dealer networks in addition to some new dealers within the market for sales and aftersales.
The key partnerships with established distributors in the powerboat market, in both the leisure and commercial sectors, will ensure coordinated, seamless support and expert service for Smartgyro customers and OEMs. A strategic base for stocking Smartgyro units is already operating in Baltimore, MD.
Smartgyro has also appointed a Technical Sales Manager in the U.S., adding marine industry specialist Bob Walker to the sales team. Based in Maryland, on the Chesapeake Bay, Bob brings almost 30 years' experience in marine equipment and yacht sales to the new role at Smartgyro, including seven years as Application Engineer for sister company VETUS most recently.
In his new role, Bob will work with the three main distributors and dealer network to focus on building market presence and brand awareness, while providing strong technical knowledge for customers and supporting the distributors.
He said: "I believe we produce a beautifully made and expertly engineered product that truly stands above the competition in quality, ruggedness, and ease of service. Now we need to let people know about it. That's why I'm excited to be part of the global Smartgyro team as we work to build sales and brand awareness here in the U.S. I firmly believe that with our nationwide distribution network and installers, we are in a great position to do just that.
"As the number of people boating grows, so does the market for products like stabilizers that make that experience more enjoyable for everyone onboard and allow more of that precious time to be spent being on the water. That's what it's about, so it's not surprising that we are seeing boats in almost all size ranges coming to the market with stabilization as standard equipment or as an option."
Meeting the evolving needs of the marine sector, Mastry Engine Center offers market-leading sales, engineering, service, repower and parts support covering a wide range of engine, powertrain and equipment applications. It distributes primarily in the south-eastern United States and Caribbean, supporting customers, OEMs and a network of over 300 certified dealers with leading products and services for trusted brands.
Celebrating 100 years of business this year, Mack Boring & Parts Co. is an expert at building reliable and innovative brands through partnerships with industry leaders in marine and industrial engine manufacturing. With expertise in sales, marketing, application engineering, customer support, and training, their team has built a network of nearly 400 dealers throughout North America and Canada.
Boatswain's Locker has provided marine propulsion and product solutions since 1939. In partnership with premier manufacturers, the company distributes products throughout the western US, Mexico and Canada. Boatswain's Locker provides dedicated and experienced support to marine industry professionals, including OEMs, government agencies, commercial operators and an extensive certified dealer network.
Pieter Feenstra, Sales Director North-Europe, APAC and America, Smartgyro, said: "Marking a new phase in the growth of Smartgyro in the U.S., we are delighted to confirm the three distributor agreements and new team member. We have a strong infrastructure in place to offer our customers the best service and support and look forward to introducing our innovative stabilizer solutions to more boaters and OEMs in the country. We welcome Bob Walker to the global sales team and have full confidence that he, with the three distributors, will increase sales and installations in the coming months."
Smartgyro's SG series of gyro stabilizers, the SG20, SG40, SG60 and SG80, provide design benefits and advanced roll reduction technology for a variety of vessels from 30 feet to over 80 feet. Innovations include a revolutionary modular mechanical design which enables the compact stabilizers to be assembled directly inside the boat and serviced while onboard, minimizing time spent on maintenance. The SG range also features cutting-edge developments within the control electronics, braking system, liquid-cooled system and vacuum enclosure to maximize roll reduction, performance and efficiency.