Entrepreneur of the Month: Eagles Nest Outfitters
June 11, 2012
The Chamber is pleased to recognize Entrepreneur of the Month Eagles Nest Outfitters, designers and manufacturers of breathable nylon hammocks, rain flies and bug nets that are a breeze to pack, carry and set up.
Motivated by a desire to escape the traditional workplace, brothers Peter and Paul Pinholster launched Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) in 1999 sewing hammocks out of their sister’s garage and selling their products at festivals across the east coast.
After years on the road, the pair settled in Asheville, a community that is open to business while fitting well with the Pinholsters’ penchant for a laid-back lifestyle.
“We love surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals as it keeps us inspired to keep innovating (eno-vating) and it also keeps us grounded at the same time.”
From these humble beginnings, ENO has grown into a thriving business selling in major outdoor retailers.
“Moving from 2500 sq ft to 18,000 square feet was a huge milestone in our company’s history. We have 15 full time employees and 5 part timers occupying a new building on Buxton. We work with 8 rep agencies throughout the country.”
Throughout, ENO has remained committed to its mission to help, inspire and motivate people to go outdoors and relax with the highest quality hammocks and accessories in the industry. The company fondly calls its loyal customers ENOpians.
“ENOpians are the folks that have gotten us to where we are today. They are the users that have spread the word about ENO on a grassroots levels and truly enjoy the lifestyle that our products allow them to have.”