FORT WORTH, TX – July 2025 — As the outdoor industry evolves, few leaders are making a bigger impact than Chris Macaulay, founder and CEO of Killara Outdoors. In a new thought leadership article titled “Innovating from Within: Why Product Evolution Powers Market Leadership,” Macaulay shares how his team fosters innovation across their growing portfolio of outdoor brands.
“True innovation doesn’t always mean inventing something new,” says Macaulay. “Sometimes it’s about seeing what’s already working, then pushing it to become something greater.”
The article explores how Killara creates structured environments that give teams the tools, space, and leadership support to develop market-leading products—without losing touch with what made the brand successful to begin with. It’s a values-driven philosophy that’s already delivered major wins.
A standout example is Killara’s work with FishStix, a premium fishing rod company founded by Hunter Welch. Under Killara’s guidance, the brand launched its first signature rod line at ICAST 2024 to enthusiastic response, and this year, it returns to ICAST 2025 with a broader lineup and new high-profile partnerships.
“Most brands get stuck doing the same thing,” Macaulay says. “We help them evolve—not just with hype, but with heart, grit, and long-term strategy.”
Killara’s approach to innovation is deeply rooted in understanding the needs of both customers and the teams behind the products. The goal isn’t rapid iteration for its own sake—it’s building enduring value.
“People buy gear they believe in,” Macaulay says. “We make sure we’re giving them something that deserves that belief.”
The full article is available now on Killara.com.
