A surfboard designed to simplify surfers' lives
Newave Surfboards, based in Les Sables-d'Olonne, has come up with a modular surfboard divided into three sections, enabling it to be stored in a backpack. This innovation responds to a common problem:
" Transporting and storing boards is a universal problem for surfers "explains Hadrien Nauroy, co-founder with Ewen Mahévas.
The system is based on a W-shaped cutout that optimally distributes mechanical stresses. The plastic parts, locked by stainless steel rods, provide the necessary rigidity and flexibility. The young company offers two board models, a Mini Malibu 7'6 and a Longboard 9', compatible with each other and delivered with a specially designed backpack for transport.
A production site in Vendée
After conclusive tests in the summer of 2023, the start-up is now preparing to industrialize its boards. The Vendée-based start-up is financing its injection molds with a ?800,000 fund-raising operation, including ?245,000 from business angels in the Abab network, as well as contributions from private investors, supplemented by bank and Bpifrance financing. Production of the boards, entrusted to subcontractors, should enable the first deliveries in June 2025.
Ambitions and growth prospects
By 2025, Newave Surfboards is aiming to sell 500 boards, then ramp up production to 100 units per month within a year. This will enable the company to break even. Boards will mainly be available on the brand's website, but also in specialized stores.
" We would like to offer rentals to allow users to test our concept and increase our visibility " says Hadrien Nauroy.
