Innovative and rapid prototyping behind next generation of kayaks from Melker of Sweden
In-house R&D, rapid prototyping for a more efficient product development, and a new plant-based material. This is the foundation of Melker of Sweden's new generation of light-weight, durable, and more environmentally friendly kayaks. The first model to be introduced is the new Värmdö.
Värmdö is a smaller kayak than Melker of Sweden's previous models but packed with loads of innovations. Utilizing a new material based on flax fiber and a solid cork core, Melker takes their plant-based, sustainable, and high-performance kayaks several steps forward. Adding a rapid and innovative prototyping using large-scale additive manufacturing (3D printing) and in-house R&D, the innovative company underlines that the future is now.
“This is significant for us. We can listen to the market's needs and quickly 3D print a full-sized prototype in one piece, which we can then intense field test in natural conditions and under different circumstances. We repeat the process until we are completely satisfied. In the final step, we manufacture moulds for efficient and sustainable serial production”, says Pelle Stafshede, CEO & Creative Director, Melker of Sweden.
The material used for 3D printing Melker's prototypes is recycled kayaks — shredded and recompounded with up-cycled old fishing nets collected on Sweden's west coast, along with wood fibers from Finnish pine forests. This means that not only the finished product is plant-based, but the prototypes are also created from recycled, up-cycled, and plant-based materials.
Following the successes in North America — where the expansion continues with three distribution hubs and more sales representatives to cover the entire continent — it was evident that a further developed and tailored kayak model was needed to complement Melker of Sweden's portfolio of kayaks.
“By carefully listening to the demands coming from new markets, customers, retailers, and partners, we have managed to quickly develop a completely new model. Värmdö is a kayak that appeals to a broader audience with focus on comfort and stability, while experienced paddlers will continue to appreciate our innovative design and high performance for which we have become world-renowned”, says Pelle Stafshede.
Melker Värmdö will be introduced internationally during Europe's largest trade fair, the Paddle Sports Show, in Strasbourg, France, on September 27th.
Media Contact
Pelle Stafshede, CEO & Creative Director, pelle@melkerofsweden.se, +46 733 16 95 35
About Melker of Sweden
Melker of Sweden offers sustainable, high-performance, sleek & stylish kayaks for an active and conscious lifestyle. An interplay between the environment, ethics and economy is strategically important to us – making it possible to make a difference for real. Our core values also include having a great time - making sure that we always do what we love together with friends, family and partners sharing our philosophy. Staying true to our philosophy makes it possible for us to create a successful business we are proud to run and work for.
We are in business to make a difference - having a great time doing it! www.melkerofsweden.com