According to Bullfrog Boats, 2002 proved to be a record-breaking year at the Bellingham, Wash.,-based builder of rigid hull, inflatable-style (RIB) boats. Business surpassed expectations, with sales in 2002 doubling 2001 sales.
Bullfrog started what has proven to be a banner year by tripling 2001’s first quarter sales, and while founder Craig Henderson felt confident overall sales for 2002 would surpass those of 2001, it was a pleasant surprise for sales to have doubled this year, especially in such a sluggish economy.
After four years in business, Henderson was able to increase concentration on marketing his product in 2002.
“Increasing our presence in the market place was one of the main goals for Bullfrog Boats this past year. Through increased exposure in the media, both through public relations and advertising efforts, and exhibiting at more boat shows than in the past helped increase our exposure,” stated Henderson. “Bullfrog products are becoming more familiar with and accepted by the consumer, as evident by 2002’s record sales.”
Another major factor contributing to Bullfrog’s bottom line in 2002 was the expansion of Bullfrog’s product line with the introduction larger boats, including 15 and 17-ft. models.
Henderson says he’s optimistic that 2003 will prove to be even more successful than 2002 due to the introduction of two additional Bullfrogs – the 21-ft. Offshore Ranger and the 25-ft. Defender. The Ranger will be debuted at the Seattle Boat show, January 17-26, 2003. The prototype of the Defender will be completed this spring, and Henderson expects the boat to be ready to market mid-2003. The 25-ft. Defender will be designed as a patrol boat and sized to fit into a C-130 cargo plane.