Affordability, simplicity, and inclusivity may not be the first elements that are associated with the world of surfing. When a desire to disrupt the surf industry came to mind, it all centered around the need to design the perfect board. Enter Surfboard Trading Company, a brand born not in a boardroom but in the heart of a firehouse, fueled by a passion for the ocean and a desire to make surfing accessible to all.
Brandon, the founder, isn’t your typical surf industry mogul. He’s a fireman, a husband, a father, and a lifelong surfer who understands the transformative power of the ocean. His story is a testament to the fact that passion, coupled with unwavering dedication, can turn a dream into a thriving reality.
A Spark Ignited by Service
Surfboard Trading Co. wasn’t conceived as a business venture, it was born from a genuine desire to share the joy of surfing. Brandon, alongside his wife Amanda, a teacher, sought to bridge the gap between quality surfboards and affordability. “Our goal is happy surfers,” he states, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the brand’s ethos. “We make budget-friendly boards with the hope of getting everyone out in the water.”
This isn’t just a marketing slogan, it’s a reflection of Brandon’s own journey. Growing up surfing on Long Island and later chasing waves in South Florida, he witnessed firsthand the barriers that prevented many from experiencing the thrill of the sport. He wanted to create a brand that prioritized accessibility, quality, and, most importantly, genuine customer service.
The Balancing Act: Firefighting and Building a Brand
Building a business while working as a full-time fireman is no easy feat. Brandon’s 24-hour shifts, often punctuated by sleepless nights, demanded a level of dedication and resilience that few possess. But his unwavering commitment to his vision, coupled with the support of his family, propelled him forward.
“Like every good American dream, it started with two public servants trying to make sure they could make ends meet while still being happy and fulfilled,” he reflects. This humble beginning, rooted in hard work and a desire to serve, has become the cornerstone of Surfboard Trading Co.’s success.
Beyond the Board: A Commitment to Community
Surfboard Trading Co. is more than just a surfboard brand, it’s a community built on shared passion and a commitment to giving back. Brandon’s dedication to service extends beyond his customers, encompassing a wide range of charitable initiatives.
From providing water filters to villages in Nicaragua to raising funds for youth programs like PALS, POST, and the Delray Beach Ocean Rescue lifeguard USLA chapter, the brand actively supports organizations that are making a tangible difference in the world. “Having our business has provided us the opportunity to be a part of these organizations that are doing such important work and to us, there is nothing more rewarding and nothing we are more proud of,” Brandon shares.
Crafting Waves of Opportunity: Quality and Customization
Surfboard Trading Co.’s product line caters to surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned surfers. Their focus on quality and affordability is evident in every board they produce, from durable foam boards for beginners to high-performance carbon shortboards for experienced riders.
One of the brand’s unique strengths lies in its private labeling services. They collaborate with various companies, including established surf shops and luxury brands like Discovery Land Co., providing custom designs and manufacturing. This allows them to expand their reach and offer tailored solutions to diverse clientele. This “private label surfboard” and “white label surfboard” option opens many doors for other companies to brand quality surfboards.
“Stay On The Wave”: A Mantra for Life
The brand’s mission statement, “Surfboard Trading Company is committed to providing quality surfboards for every budget. We have been and vow to remain rooted in both good service and quality. We will always be devoted to the values that we were founded on with hopes it can stretch far beyond just surfboards but also into a lifestyle,” reflects its dedication to accessibility and community. This philosophy is further encapsulated in the brand’s motto, “Stay On The Wave,” a reminder to embrace the joy of surfing and navigate life’s challenges with resilience.
Surfboard Trading Co. seems firm on never shifting its focus from affordability, quality, and exceptional customer service. They were founded on these elements and will remain dedicated to them even as the world around them may influence people otherwise. Happy surfers in the ocean is their goal, but happy surfers in the ocean on their boards is their dream come true.