British Canoeing Partners With Gill For Go Paddling Platform

British Canoeing has unveiled a new partnership with marine technical apparel brand Gill, which will become the title partner for its participation platform Go Paddling.

The multi-year deal will see Gill become title partner for the Go Paddling website as well as all of its associated promotions, and will also see the pair work on research and development of new products, and joint marketing initiatives to raise awareness of paddlesport in the UK. 

The pair will also release specific benefits to Go Paddling members, including exclusive products and early bird product launches, as well as a member discount across Gill’s range of clothing and accessories.

British Canoeing says that, since its launch in January 2019, Go Paddling – which focuses on new and recreational participants, and compiles information about places to take part in paddlesport, as well as hints, tips, and essential advice on safety on the water – has contributed to a growth in participation. In 2020, the NGB saw a record-breaking 30,000 new members sign up, with part of that success attributed to the platform.

Gill will begin its Title Partnership in April 2021.

“I am delighted to welcome Gill as a new partner to British Canoeing and we look forward to working with them to further develop and promote Go Paddling,” said David Joy, CEO, British Canoeing.

“It is pleasing that we have attracted such an internationally recognised water sports brand to help us to build on the growing reputation of Go Paddling.

“We have seen a growth in paddling participation and in membership of British Canoeing in the last few years and Go Paddling has played a very important part in this success. We now look forward to the next phase and to Go Paddling with Gill.”

Sally Streeting, Global Head of Marketing at Gill added: “Gill is very excited and proud to enter into this long-term relationship with British Canoeing; this unique and multi-faceted partnership will allow us to build much needed brand advocacy and awareness of our great technical clothing range with the paddlesports community.

“Whilst it capitalises on our sailing heritage and product expertise, more importantly it will allow us to hone our product development and knowledge further.  The ability for us to have regular and direct access to a vast consumer network, both at novice and elite level, is priceless as we grow and develop our paddlesports range further.

“British Canoeing’s ambition and drive to really grow the sport was the main reason we wanted to partner with them; we are very excited about the journey ahead and look forward to working closely with them to ensure more of the UK enjoys our waterways safely and with the right equipment.”

Created in 1975, Gill’s clothing range has expanded across a number of outdoor water sports and lifestyle activities, and says it is now looking to develop its range to meet the needs of the growing paddling community.