Harken appoints SA distributor

Sailboat hardware and accessories manufacturer Harken has named Zenith International (Pty) Ltd as its newest authorised distributor for marine products in South Africa. The Cape Town-based company will trade as Harken South Africa.

Led by Hannes Knoetzen and Michael Batt, the Harken South Africa team will work closely with the US deck hardware manufacturer to increase its market share in South Africa. Like many distributors within the Harken network, Harken South Africa will service the retail customer base, boatbuilders, sailmakers and riggers.

The focus of the market, however, is boatbuilding. The presence of an experienced and capable team in South Africa will allow Harken to develop strong working relationships with the region’s OEM and custom markets and to respond quickly to the customers with the highest level of service.

“No fanfare or glamour, just good old-fashioned great service with stunning products and back-up from the best company in the world,” says Hannes Knoetzen, who has 13 years’ experience working for Ankie Roux, the previous owner and managing director of Harken South Africa.

“We see this relationship as a positive step forward towards a continued strong Harken presence in the South African marine business,” says Gail Rice, international distributor sales manager. “A big welcome and thank you to Hannes and Michael as our new distributor in South Africa.”

Headquartered in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, Harken is a leading manufacturer and distributor of sailboat hardware and accessories. The company’s network includes distribution in 48 countries, with group offices in Australia, France, Italy, New Zealand, Poland, Sweden, the UK and the US.