Gerald Craft, McNett
Gerald Craft from McNett, a Bellingham-based manufacturer of outdoor-related products, finds great value in connecting with the outdoor community at EXPO. Interactions with the public and his fellow vendors often result in a sense of discovery. “We often find out that people know our Gear Aid line of products, but didn’t realize that we’re a Bellingham company,” he said. “The EXPO is also great for putting us in touch with our retailers so we can get feedback on what their customers want and what’s selling.”
Craft enjoys talking shop with fellow EXPO exhibitors and giving away swag to attendees. “The EXPO speakers are great, and you can learn about outdoor opportunities in Whatcom County, but the best part is probably the free stuff we’re all giving away.” McNett will be handing out their popular Seam Grip adhesive, along with water repellent sprays and Tenacious Tape Tattoos, which are tough patches cut in fun shapes (think Sasquatch, squirrels and sharks) that repair tears in your gear, so you can keep having fun.
April is a co-founder and former co-Executive Director for Recreation Northwest. She has a passion for place and loves exploring, experiencing and sharing the beauty of the pacific northwest. She is currently working with Ocean Conservancy to protect our oceans, specifically the Arctic.