Nautika: From Inflatable Pools and Boats to an Outdoor Market Reference

Nautika, a Brazilian company in the market since 1975, began by manufacturing collapsible pools and inflatable boats, pioneering this segment in Brazil. Driven by innovation, the company expanded its business to include inflatable mattresses, Canadian-style tents, and circus tarps. Today, Nautika is one of the leading references in outdoor products, distributing 18 internationally recognized brands such as Deuter, CamelBak, Guepardo, among others, plus its own line, NTK.

Nautika’s Responsible Growth

Nautika started operations in a small warehouse in São Paulo with just a few machines and 20 employees. According to Gabriela Assunção, Director of Grupo Nautika, in the 1990s the company’s portfolio was small, consisting of 20-30 self-manufactured products, but the dream was big: to become Brazil’s leader in the camping and leisure market.

To achieve this, the first step was following market evolution and consumer needs. “We began observing import trends and decided to research overseas production. We started traveling to China to understand their innovations and established our first international partnerships,” says Gabriela.

Gabriela Assunção, Director of Grupo Nautika

In 2007, the company (which already manufactured in China) decided to cease local production due to price competitiveness and began distributing select outdoor brands. “That year we started importing 100% of our products. Soon we began distributing renowned brands like Deuter and Coleman, which caught the outdoor market’s attention. We became known for quality products, and today we carefully select brands that align with our values,” adds the executive.

Ethical Production Commitment

When shifting production to China, Gabriela’s main concern was ensuring socially responsible suppliers. “Our priority has always been knowing our manufacturers personally. We conduct regular factory visits to monitor production processes and working conditions. Some have partnered with us for 25 years. We maintain strong relationships with trusted partners – this is crucial for us.”

With China’s vast market offerings, Gabriela emphasizes resisting shortcuts: “When I see unusually low prices, I first investigate why – especially regarding labor conditions.”

Conscious Consumption and Circular Economy

Nautika positions itself as a seller of durable products, benefiting both consumers and the environment. Gabriela notes that Aluga Trip, a gear rental company, has used Nautika camping tents intensively for 5 years. “We prioritize long-lasting products. A flashlight that lasts years reduces battery waste.”

This philosophy extends to distributed brands. “We partner with companies making durable goods. My 12-year-old Deuter backpack looks new and has a lifetime warranty,” Gabriela explains.

To promote conscious consumption, Nautika created NTK Brechó, a marketplace for used gear. “If someone no longer needs a functional item, we buy it back as store credit, minimizing waste.” The company also offers affordable repairs and extended warranties.

Reused Packaging

Concerned about packaging waste, Nautika educates Chinese manufacturers to minimize materials, especially plastics. “Products often arrive with unnecessary packaging. We eliminate redundancies – if plastic is essential, we shrink the box. This might reduce shelf appeal, but it’s ecologically necessary.”

Gabriela notes 100% of packaging sent to retailers or customers is reused. “A customer complained about an oversized box until we explained it was reused. Buying new smaller boxes would create more waste.” Clear labeling now identifies reused packaging, with non-reusable materials recycled through cooperatives.

Social and Environmental Projects

Nautika supports initiatives like the Gear Tips Recycling Program for camping gas canisters and Marulho Eco‘s ocean cleanups.

In 2023, with Decathlon, Nautika backed a vocational program for teens in São José dos Campos, introducing careers in environmental sports through mountain guides and divers.

Currently, Nautika sponsors the children’s book series As Aventuras de Lobinho pelo Mundo (“Lobinho’s World Adventures”), donated to public schools.

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