Steve Krautkremer is out as VP of sales at Old Town

Several key retailers, as well as representatives of the Professional Paddlesports Association, contacted SNEWS® yesterday to inform us that after 19 years with the company, Steve Krautkremer’s last day at Old Town Canoe Co. will be September 13. No announcement about either Krautkremer’s departure or plans for his replacement have been made by Johnson Outdoors — owners of the Old Town brand. Friends of Krautkremer told us that he has indicated that he is currently exploring new career opportunities and wants to remain in the outdoor industry. SNEWS® View: Hmmm, seems like the infamous “left to pursue other opportunities” clause is being invoked. Insiders tell us Krautkremer was asked to leave, though no one is talking on the record and calls to Krautkremer have gone unreturned. What we can tell you is that retailers have told us they are shocked at the news because they considered Krautkremer an ally of specialty retailers and a man who was very, very good at his job representing both the company he worked for while balancing being an advocate for specialty needs.