Ribcraft has been appointed as the official distributor for the August Race marine range in India.
The UK-based boat care product manufacturer has been growing its distribution network steadily over the last few years with the appointment of Ribcraft India the latest expansion for the company.
Ribcraft India will distribute the boat care products across the country.
“In 2023, the Indian leisure boat market generated around USD 45.1 million in revenue and that is expected to increase to USD 57.2 million by 2030 so it’s a very exciting time to be expanding into the Indian market,” said Peter Wallbank technical director for August Race.
“With decades of experience in all aspects of marine the team behind Ribcraft India are the perfect partner for this project.”
The team behind Ribcraft India are the perfect partner for this project.
Peter Wallbank
Ribcraft launched its certified manufacturing facility in India in 2024 following an increasing demand for RIBs in the region driven by a number of factors including maritime security needs, search and rescue operations, and commercial activities along India’s vast coastline.
The facility was established in conjunction with Ribcraft’s partner Brilliant Seagull Pvt Ltd to optimise production costs and delivery timelines, while complying with the quality and build standards based on UK design and manufacturing.
To achieve this, transfer of technology and know-how was transferred to Ribcraft India Pvt Ltd from the UK and UAE.
Ribcraft India’s headquarters are located in Mumbai, with production facilities positioned in Porbander, a key port city in the state of Gujarat, India.
The facility spans approximately 2500sqm and is equipped with a fully operational workshop capable of handling lamination, outfitting, and fabrication processes.
It has been designed for scalability, with the ability to expand as needed within a timeframe of four to six months.
Quality management
The manufacturing facility is Class Approved to ensure compliance with class rules. Additionally, it holds standard ISO certifications for quality management systems.
Ribcraft was founded in Great Britain more than 30 years ago and builds custom and production rigid inflatable boats.
August Race develops and manufactures a range of valeting and protection coatings.
The expansion into India follows on from an agreement with Canada’s Maritime Marine Supply to bring the boat care products to Canada in the wake of President Trump’s tariff introductions.
Commitment to excellence
“We’re excited to bring August Race to our customers,” says Ron Savidant, president at Maritime Marine Supply. “
Their dedication to quality and performance aligns perfectly with our values and commitment to excellence.”
The announcements come as part of a succession of strategic distribution expansions from August Race.
Sarah Wallbank, August Race CEO, explained: “It has been a tense spring for international trade as businesses adjust to the emerging tariff situation but this has also instigated companies revisiting their supply chains and re-examining their options which in turn can create great opportunities.”
