(PEWAUKEE, Wis.) — Harken has named Zenith International (Pty) Ltd. in Cape Town as its newest authorized distributor for marine products in South Africa. It will be doing business as Harken South Africa.
Led by Hannes Knoetzen and Michael Batt, the Harken South Africa team will work closely with Harken 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 is boatbuilding. The presence of such an experienced and capable team enables Harken to develop strong working relationships with the region’s OEM and custom markets and to respond quickly to customers.
Knoetzen has 13 years of extensive and productive experience working for Ankie Roux, previous owner and managing director of Harken South Africa. Hannes and his partner, Michael Batt (five years with Harken) are fully committed to their business.
“We see this relationship as a positive step forward toward a continued strong Harken presence in the South African marine business. A big welcome and thank you to Hannes and Michael as our new distributor in South Africa,” said Gail Rice, international distributor sales manager.