From a simple opportunity to a real market
Cleaning and preparing the boats on display at boat shows was not an activity identified by Sébastien David, when he founded Kerboat in February 2015. However, when Multi-Sailing, the importer of DragonFly in France, approached the company for the first time at the Grand Pavois 2015, the company quickly seized the opportunity.
Kerboat's trade show activity is now sustainable, with 14 sites already customers. It represented 19.5% of the company's turnover in 2016. The company ensured the cleanliness of 14 boats during the Grand Pavois 2016, about ten at the Nautic 2016 and will be present at the Boot in Düsseldorf.
Preparation and maintenance
Kerboat offers two types of services, coupled or separate:
- Preparing the boat before the boat show
- Daily cleaning during the show to keep an optimal level of cleanliness, and relieve the staff on stand.
The price of the services, on estimate, can vary according to the type of boat (exit of building site or boat of owner), its size or the type of show. A floating or indoor show does not involve the same cleaning.
A complement for the low season
Winter boat shows are held during a low season for local cleaning activities for boaters. The preparation for boat shows allows Kerboat to ensure work all year round for its employees and to perpetuate their positions while retaining their know-how. Kerboat currently employs 4 people on permanent contracts.
A showcase for new customers
Kerboat's presence at trade fairs gives it a showcase with customers. Sébastien David observes a real convergence between local activity and that of the salons. An approach is also under consideration with some sites to push collaboration beyond the shows. Case to be continued!
