News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Outdoor equipment business continues to boom during the COVID pandemic.
White County’s Jackson Kayaks is backlogged by over 14,000 units after high order volumes during COVID.
The plant is operating 24/7 to meet the high demand. Human Resources Manager Jeff Leach said customers can expect orders to be delivered about a week later then expected.
“We are doing everything in our power to catch up,” Leach said. “But the demands for kayaks are so high right now that there are absolutely some people waiting for some of the boats.”
Leach said the factory is producing over 400 boats a week. Orders usually slow down as winter approaches, but Leach said volume is staying consistent.
“Orders do typically slow down during this season,” Leach said. “I will be honest. This year we have not experienced that quite as much though due to demand in kayaks. Our sales are still extremely strong.”
Fishing kayaks and white water kayaks are the two most popular items. Leach said this year kayaking has became one of the most popular outdoor activities.
“The demands for kayaks has gone significantly up,” Leach said. “Also in the general area, kayaks have been trending quite significantly. Meaning in the Sparta area it is one of the most popular activities.”
Jackson Kayaks became one of the highest paying plastic production employers in the Upper Cumberland after increasing employee wages in October. Hourly pay rates increased by an average of $2 making the starting pay $12 an hour.
