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Frigibar LLC

Letter From Shuly Oletzky: Frigibar is Back in Fort Lauderdale with New Ownership and Opportunities

Late last year when I announced that Frigibar Industries Inc. would cease operations, I received an overwhelming amount of support from customers, partners, and friends. From letters thanking us for a cockpit freezer that is still working 30 years after it was delivered to brand partners calling to express their appreciation, every word meant the world to me.

47 years after my father, Sheldon Oletzky, started the brand that we are today, the closing of the business was bittersweet. I was proud of our accomplishments and the legacy we left behind, but disappointed that we no longer would serve the yacht owners, captains, and crews we know and love.

I am very pleased to announce that Frigibar is back in business with many exciting changes to announce and unveil over the next several months.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with Frigibar, we build handcrafted, custom-built freezer/refrigerator units, fiberglass cockpit freezers, dock boxes, insulated fish boxes, ice chests, and more. Our products are available online at Frigibar.com and now, in a brand new showroom in Fort Lauderdale.

Frigibar was recently acquired by marine industry entrepreneur Seann Pavlik, who has been a loyal customer, supporter and friend of Frigibar for decades. Seann has built a reputation for providing boat owners with exceptional products through is companies; Misters Unlimited, Innovative Products, and IceFree. Frigibar has now joined his family of brands as Frigibar, LLC.

The Frigibar brand has always stood for quality and delivering exceptional value in customer service to boat owners, captains, and crews worldwide. Finding this fit with Seann and his family of companies is a dream come true for Frigibar. Frigibar is now located in Fort Lauderdale.

Our new headquarters and showroom is located at 1632 NE 12th Terrace in Fort Lauderdale, and the showroom will be available weekdays 10 AM – 4 PM and alternative times are available by appointment. Frigibar units, including cockpit freezers are currently on display and available for purchase.

Shuly Oletzky

I want to thank you all for your support over the years. I will remain a part of Frigibar and support the vision Seann has for the future. I am very much looking forward to new product lines and a lot of exciting changes that are on the horizon for the near future. We plan to resume our boat show schedule this year and will be announcing our participation for 2018 shows soon.

Please feel free to contact us at info@frigibar.com, call at 305-757-7697, and visit Frigibar.com for additional information.

Sincerely,

—  Shuly Oletzky, Frigibar, LLC

Frigibar at FLIBS

FLIBS 2017: Come Out and Join Frigibar at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Over 1,000 exhibitors, including Frigibar, and more than 1,500 boats will be on display at the 58th Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The show will take place November 1-5 in the Yachting Capital of the World.

Schedule Ahead to Meet with Frigibar

FLIBS Boat Show

Frigibar will once again be exhibiting at the show and will be available to meet with you one-on-one during the show. Schedule a time to meet with Frigibar during the show by emailing us at info@frigibar.com or calling us at 305-757-7697. Whether you’re considering a marine refrigerator or freezer for your boat or just want to say hi to the Frigibar team, feel free to stop on by booth 541.

A Whole New Show

In March, it was announced that Informa’s Global Exhibitions division acquired Yachting Promotions Inc., which included the acquisition of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS). It didn’t take long for Informa to make changes to the show, and we think for the better. For the first time, this year’s FLIBS will run from Wednesday until Sunday, instead of ending on a Monday which had been a slower day for the show.

The show will feature runabouts, sportfishers, high performance boats, center consoles, cabin cruisers, flats boats, skiffs, express cruisers, sailing yachts, motor yachts, bowriders, catamarans, ski boats, jet boats, trawlers, inflatables, canoes, extraordinary superyachts, and of course, the best in marine refrigeration (Frigibar!).

We hope to see you there! For tickets, visit FLIBS.com here. Follow Frigibar on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to join in on the fun and get live updates from the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

Why Bench-Style Freezers are the Best Marine Refrigeration Systems for Your Boat or Yacht

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When seeking a refrigerator or freezer for your boat or yacht, there is no shortage of types of refrigeration systems. From a portable plug-in to a custom-built walk-in freezer, depending on the size of your boat, there are dozens of varieties of refrigeration systems to choose from. But not all freezers are made the same, and not all types of freezers are best suited for your boat.

The bench-style freezer is a favorite among boaters, captains, and crews for many reasons, but when it comes down to it — they’re simply the best choice for your boat for several reasons.

Superior Design for Keeping Items Cold

Ever wonder why your attic is much hotter than your basement even if your HVAC system is working properly? It’s because hot air rises and cold air drops. When you open a bench-style freezer, the cold air will take longer to escape since there is no large opening for the cold air to “fall out” of the unit. This means your unit will not have to work as hard to remove additional hot air when the box is opened for you to take something out and your freezer will function more efficiently overall because of this design.

Seating Option

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Since you’re dealing with a limited amount of space on your boat or yacht, maximizing every inch of it is important. Standing a couple of feet high, bench-style freezers are of similar height to the average seating on a boat and are long enough to fit several people. They can also be fitted with custom, removable cushions, making them a comfortable and stylish seating option as well.

Ease of Use

Bench-style freezers are easier to pack a large amount of food or other items into due to the top-opening construction. Stacking things vertically can be a challenge. You may also worry if your items will topple over and out of your freezer the minute you open it, as things tend to shift while underway. It’s easier to stack and pack from an aerial position from the bottom up through the top opening of your freezer. And rest assured, when you open the unit to take something out, it will be right where you left it.

More Storage for the Space

With these short and convenient units, you’re only limited on the amount of available freezer space based on the size of your deck. Many boat owners use multiple bench-style freezers, and due to their size, they don’t obstruct views or prevent you from achieving the look and feel you want on your boat.

Versatility

Bench-style units, if created with Dual Control, can be used as a refrigerator, freezer or cooler in an emergency situation where power is not available. Being able to utilize the unit as a refrigerator or freezer with Dual Control gives you additional flexibility when hosting guests or to make the most out of the type of trip you’re taking. For example, if you’re going on a several hour fishing trip, you may want to keep bait refrigerated and not frozen, but on a several day excursion, you may need to keep food frozen to use in the late stages of your voyage.

Frigibar specializes in manufacturing the best American-made, luxury handcrafted fiberglass freezers available on the market, including bench-style freezers. View the Frigibar product catalog to learn more about how our freezers can improve the quality of your boating adventures.

Why is a freezer an important appliance for your boat or yacht?

Who cares about a freezer? Well, we all should, but they are often not properly appreciated until a power outage or we don’t have enough freezer space for that long trip that we realize how important a freezer is.

Freezers save us money and keep our food safe.

When you’re out on the water, you don’t have easy access to a grocery store or restaurant. If all of your food spoils or you run out of food, your trip has to end whether you’re ready for it to or not. The right freezer with ample space can help extend your adventures and make sure your food is kept cold and fresh.

When asked why a boat or yacht owner should consider a Frigibar marine freezer system, Frigibar President Shuly Oletzky replied:

“Freezers are important appliances anywhere. If you want to keep anything frozen, you need a freezer!

If you’re considering whether or not it is important enough to take up space on your deck for a freezer, the considerations that you may go through are:

  • How much stuff do you want to bring with you?
  • How long of a trip would you like to take?
  • How many people do you need to feed for the duration of your trip or until your next provisioning location?
  • Do you want to entertain multiple guests, throw a party on your boat or you want to go fishing, and don’t want to deal with ice — a freezer is a great solution to make these desires possible and eliminate some of the hassles that come along with not having one.”

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Looking for the best freezer for your boat or yacht? Check out our product catalog: https://www.frigibar.com/products/. Have a question, contact a Frigibar representative today to get the answers you’re looking for. Call Frigbar at 305-757-7697, or email us at info@Frigibar.com.

Why should a boat or yacht owner consider going with a Frigibar marine freezer system?

For over 40 years, Frigibar Industries, Inc. has provided the marine industry with the highest quality marine refrigeration systems. Based out of Miami, Florida, all freezer and refrigerator units are manufactured in America and are handcrafted.

As a boat or yacht owner, you know that your vessel isn’t just a toy, it’s an investment. Each aspect of your boat either adds to its value and your enjoyment or takes away from it. Here at Frigibar, we’re dedicated to adding to the value of your boat and making each and every trip better so you can enhance your life on the water.

Why Buy a Frigibar?

When asked why a boat or yacht owner should consider a Frigibar marine freezer system, Frigibar President Shuly Oletzky replied:

“Boat owners should consider our systems because they are very unique and will give you safe cold storage space outside of a typical application, like in a galley or under a cabinet. It provides a lot of flexibility.

When you choose a unit that goes outside, there are a few things to consider, and one of them is — was it designed to be outside?

Our units are designed to be in that environment, which I think is one of the key reasons to consider something like our freezers.”

See for yourself! View the Frigibar product catalog here.

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Have a question, contact a Frigibar representative today to get the answers you’re looking for. Call Frigbar at 305-757-7697, or email us at info@Frigibar.com.

Protecting Your Investment: Frigibar Releases Two New Products UV Surface Shield and Smart Fabric Protector

For over 40 years, Frigibar Industries, Inc. has provided the best in marine refrigeration systems, including freezers, refrigerators, icebox conversion kits, deck boxes, dock boxes, and more. In addition to our hand-crafted freezers, Frigibar is releasing new products for boat owners, including two new maintenance products created to improve the look and lifespan of your vessel’s fiberglass and fabric.

Introducing UV Surface Shield and Smart Fabric Protector.

UV Surface Shield

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Scratches and nicks can make even the most beautiful crafts appear dull, rough or damaged, and can be expensive to repair. The UV Surface Shield acts as a liquid coat of armor for your vessel and any fiberglass surface, giving your boat or yacht a bright shine, keeping it cleaner longer, and protects against UV damage with Smart Surface Technology.

UV Surface Shield will save you time by making maintenance a breeze. No longer will water, dirt, fish blood or other potentially harmful liquids stick to and damage your vessel’s surface. You can expect to see and maintain a gorgeous luster and smooth clean surface that’s hydrophobic for 4-6 months after a surface is treated. We highly recommend trying UV Surface Shield to protect your investment and give your boat or yacht a shine to admire.

Price: $49.95 + $4.49 S&H

Purchase Information: Purchase on Amazon, or by calling or emailing Frigibar.

Smart Fabric Protector

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The fabric on a boat isn’t always the first thing you notice on a yacht, unless it’s damaged or stained. Fabric in need of repair is an eyesore and can be costly and time-consuming to repair. Needless to say, it’s worth protecting.

Frigibar’s Smart Fabric Protector makes waterproofing ordinary fabrics and vinyl easy, and also makes them easy to clean. This protectant spray can be used to prevent soaking, swelling or rotting. It can be used to protect almost anything fabric-based on your vessel, including boat cushions, canopies, awnings, marine mattresses and more. It has anti-bacterial properties that kill 99.9% of bacteria, allowing treated surfaces to last five times longer than with other conventional water-repellent coatings.

Price: $29.95 + $4.49 S&H

Purchase Information: Purchase on Amazon, or by calling or emailing Frigibar.

The UV Surface Shield and Smart Fabric Protector are the two latest additions to the Frigibar product family, and we’re proud to continue to expand our catalog to meet the ever-changing needs of boat and yacht captains, crew and owners. If interested in getting the most out of your adventures by adding a quality marine refrigeration freezer system to your vessel, or any of our other products, contact us at 305-757-7697 or email us at info@frigibar.com, or view our full line of products online here.

Frigibar to Participate in 11th Annual St. Maarten Captain’s Briefing and Golf Outing

January 25-26, Frigibar will participate in the 2016 USSA St. Maarten Captains Briefing and Golf Outing. The event will center around the superyacht industry, which is a $26B industry worldwide, and the current opportunities and issues related to it. Some of the world’s top Captains and Senior Crew members will participate in the event’s activities and will be available to network with.

This will be Frigibar’s first year participating in the event, and President Shuly Oletzky is excited about the opportunity to learn first-hand from the superyacht captains and their staffs who will be in attendance. “I’m really looking forward to having the opportunity to meet these captains and their Senior Crew members. While exhibiting in the superyacht pavilion at the METSTRADE tradeshow in Amsterdam this past November, I learned a lot about the superyacht industry and how our company can properly serve them. I’m interested in spending some time with the captains and crews, getting to know the other sponsors involved in the event, and having the opportunity to visit some clients while on the island,” said Oletzky.

st-marteenThe two-day event includes networking opportunities, captain’s round table breakfast, pick-up rugby, beach games, a golf outing, awards, and more. For a full schedule of events and to register to participate, visit the registration page here, or contact Kitty McGowan of the U.S. Superyacht Association at 954-608-6966. Email: info@ussuperyacht.com.

About Frigibar Industries, Inc.

Frigibar Industries, Inc. is one of the longest established manufacturers of marine refrigeration. Frigibar was started in 1971 by Founder and President Sheldon Oletzky, a twenty-one year veteran of the United States Navy and experienced aerospace engineer. In 2011, Sheldon’s daughter Shuly Oletzky took on the role of CEO and President of Frigibar and strives to grow the company’s legacy of providing the best in marine refrigeration. These freezers have taken on a secondary meaning; on-deck fiberglass freezers are referred to by boat builders and owners worldwide as Frigibars. Frigibar provides hand-crafted, marine refrigeration systems of the highest quality.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and like our Facebook page to keep updated throughout the year and see what we’re up to.

Frigibar Freezer Units to be Displayed at Stuart Boat Show with Whiticar Boat Works Partnership

STUART, FL, Dec. 22, 2015 — Frigibar Industries Inc., America’s foremost manufacturer of quality marine refrigeration products, and Whiticar Boat Works have partnered to bring the best in boat and yacht freezers and refrigerators to Stuart, Florida.

Frigibar Marine Refrigeration Unit

Frigibar is a staple at boat shows and marine industry events across the nation. Without a retail storefront, these events serve as a unique opportunity for boat and yacht customers to experience the quality of a Frigibar freezer.

As the largest boat show on the Treasure Coast, the Stuart Boat Show, now in its 42nd year, brings nearly 200 exhibitors, $100 million dollars in boats and marine products, and thousands of people together for a great three-day event. Taking place January 15-18 in Stuart, Florida, the show will feature motor yachts, cruisers, center consoles, speed boats, sport fishing boats, pontoon and personal watercrafts.

Whiticar Boat Works is the exclusive Frigibar dealer in Martin County, allowing local boaters to touch and feel what Frigibar has to offer. Asked why they partnered with Frigibar, a Whiticar representative stated, “We as a group feel their quality and long-standing market presence are the main reasons we recommend them and are proud to represent their product. We also appreciate the fact that they are “locally” made and customizable!”

The Stuart Boat Show will be located at 54 N. Dixie Hwy., Stuart, FL. There will be free parking, water taxi and shuttle service available at specified locations in downtown Stuart. Tickets are $12 for General Admission, $10 for seniors over 65, and tickets for Veterans and children (12 and under) and only $5. For more information on the Stuart Boat Show, visit: http://www.allsportsproductions.net/stuart-boat-show/   

About Frigibar Industries, Inc.

Frigibar Industries, Inc. is one of the longest established manufacturers of marine refrigeration. Frigibar was started in 1971 by founder and president Sheldon Oletzky, a twenty-one year veteran of the United States Navy and experienced aerospace engineer. In 2011, Sheldon’s daughter Shuly Oletzky took on the role of CEO and President of Frigibar and strives to grow the company’s legacy of providing the best in marine refrigeration. These freezers have taken on a secondary meaning; on-deck fiberglass freezers are referred to by boat builders and owners worldwide as Frigibars. Frigibar provides hand-crafted, marine refrigeration systems of the highest quality.

About Whiticar Boat Works

Based out of Stuart, Florida, Whiticar Boat Works has been in the boat business for over 70 years, and is known for providing only the best in boating and yachting. With an average of 28 years of experience among their talented staff, they provide the most dedicated and versatile services with what they call “white glove treatment.”

 

8 Custom Boat Building Considerations: What Buyers Need to Know

Deciding to have a boat built for your adventures is a significant decision, but it’s just the start of the rewarding process of having a vessel created of your very own. It’s like accepting a marriage proposal; you’re committed and very excited, but there’s a lot of work and research ahead leading up till the day you get to sail away together.

We interviewed Jeff Rhodes to find out the most important things to consider when deciding to buy a new boat from a builder. Jeff is the founder of Coastal Craft Welded Aluminium Boats Ltd. and has over two decades of experience building boats, including the Coastal Craft 65 Concord yacht. Here are eight important aspects of purchasing a custom-built boat to carefully consider prior to finalizing your purchase

65-Foot Coastal Craft Concord Yacht

  • Intended Use: Boats are made for the water, right? Should it really matter how you’re going to use it? In short, absolutely. According to Jeff, you need to have a firm understanding of how you are going to use the boat. “If someone wants to get to somewhere comfortably and safely, you need to make sure the boat can get them there.” The location where it will be used, frequency of use, and personal preferences will all factor into what boat and features will best fit your adventures.
  • Fully Understand What You’re Buying: Asked what’s the biggest mistake boat buyers of custom vessels make, Jeff said, “Not taking the time to fully understand the product they are considering purchasing. It’s hard to just walk through a boat show and know what you’re getting. You need to carefully go through specifications and what the boat is intended to do.” It’s important not to try to force a fit if what you’re considering buying doesn’t quite match how you plan on using it.
  • Qualify Your Builder: “Take your time and research the companies you’re considering. Do not rush the process of qualifying your builder,” Jeff says. He also cautions that qualifying a builder goes far beyond checking their reputation and seeing what they’ve built in the past. “They may be a great builder with a great reputation, but what they build might not match what you’re looking for and your unique needs. Buyers will gravitate towards a great brand, but want something that doesn’t fit what the builder makes.”
  • Naval Architecture: Coastal Craft specializes in yachts crafted out of aluminum, but the design, size, and intended use of your vessel may require a specific type of material. ”It’s all about the boat first, and then about styling and interior second. You can’t compromise the design.”
  • Communication with the Builder: Buyers need to keep an open and honest line of communication with the boat builder. “I can’t tell someone how they are going to use their boat, but I can use their description to help guide them in this process.” A boat customized for the conditions of Alaska is going to be different than one made for Miami, Florida, or even in Maine. “I need to understand how they plan on using the boat, and that is gained through having an open dialogue with them.” To avoid problems during the building process, make sure your builder is responsive and that you have contacts you can get ahold of when needed. If you are being left in the dark during the early stages of the process, it could be a warning sign.
  • Unique Needs and Preferences: We all have different preferences and needs, but can your builder accommodate them? Coastal Craft recently built a custom 65 Concord that included a wheelchair lift and custom elevator. The Coastal Craft team had to work closely with vendors and come up with innovative designs to give the customer exactly what they wanted. If you have custom needs or preferences, make sure they are presented to the builder at the beginning of the process, and make sure they can deliver. Ask if they have done anything similar in the past and how they would go about problem-solving and building the solution you need.
  • Interior Design: The overall design of the boat is the most important aspect of a build, but you have to be satisfied with the interior to fully enjoy your boat. Don’t overlook the interior of your boat. Take a look at boats similar to what you’re considering and keep track of what you like and dislike from each. Then, meet with who will be doing the interior design of your boat with each builder to see what they have designed in the past and to discuss what you want for the interior of your boat.
  • Maximizing Available Space: When asked “What’s the hardest aspect of a boat to build to a customer’s specifications,” Jeff replied, “It has to do with space. The biggest challenge is working with space (storage, deck) to maximize space. If you want a fast boat, your boat will have a different layout and have different space needs.”

Jeff Rhodes of Coastal Craft
Whatever builder or type of boat you decide to go with, it’s important not to rush the process and make sure that what you want can be delivered by the builder. If in need of help during the process, Jeff recommends talking to other boat owners, doing internet research, and considering hiring a Certified Professional Yacht Broker (
CPYB) to help. For more information on Jeff Rhodes or Coastal Craft boats, visit CoastalCraft.com.

Looking to make the most of your boat’s space? Let Frigibar show you how to better utilize your boat’s space with the best in marine refrigeration.

Why I Love Boat Shows: Q&A with Frigibar President Shuly Oletzky

Boat show season is in full swing and Frigibar is traveling across the world to bring the best in marine refrigeration to boat owners everywhere. From Newport to Amsterdam to right here in Florida (Miami and Fort Lauderdale), Frigibar President Shuly Oletzky will be at a half-dozen boat shows this season.

Frigibar has been featuring industry experts, boat-makers, and fishing teams in recent articles, so we thought we’d take a minute to sit down with Shuly to find out why she loves boat shows.

“Growing up as the daughter of the owner of a marine refrigeration company, going to boat shows was how I spent several weekends each year. Having attended around 100 shows, I’ve learned a lot and have grown to really appreciate the opportunities and atmosphere that are at every event.”

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Here is what we asked Shuly and her responses:

Q: What’s your favorite boat show memory?

Shuly Oletzky (SO): Spending time with my family; my dad specifically. When I was younger, I stood back and watched and played around. As I got older, I was able to help, learn about the business, and learn about my dad.

We spent hours and hours together talking, working together, and building an even stronger relationship. These were truly special times and I’m so grateful for those experiences.

Q: What is your favorite aspect of a boat show?

SO: By far, the people are what I enjoy most. There are several aspects of each show that I love due to how they allow people; myself included, to connect, network, and make friendships with others.

It may be all about business for some, but to me it’s the whole package of business, friendships, and building relationships and trust.

Q: What other aspects of boat shows do you love?

SO: There are quite a few.

The environment. It’s electric! There isn’t anything that matches the fun environment of a boat show. Everyone is excited, learning and shopping for things they desire around a common interest. When you get a group of people together that are passionate about the same things, it’s impossible not to feed off of their energy.

It’s a social and recreational activity. I find the people that are passionate about boating, fishing, and sailing are typically very social people who enjoy being surrounded by others. They’re friendly and open to meeting strangers and sharing their experiences during their travels.

The chance to meet other people in the industry. As hard as you work at a show, you see people you’re only seeing a couple of times a year. Organizers build in a lot of recreational activities and social time, including receptions.

Q: Do you enjoy going to a boat show more as an exhibitor or attendee?

SO: Whether I’m attending as an exhibitor or an attendee, I thoroughly enjoy these shows. As an attendee, I get to see customers and partners who I wouldn’t be able to meet with when I am exhibiting and spending most of my time in my booth. Going as an attendee also provides a great opportunity to make new B2B connections, as the other exhibitors don’t always get a chance to visit other booths during the show.

Q: How can exhibitors take advantage of shows?

SO: Be present and don’t consider your time at the show the same you would a normal work day. You have to try to limit your distractions and be accessible for attendees to meet and connect with you. If you’re disconnected, you’ll miss opportunities.

I want to be able to help everyone I can, even if it’s just to direct them to other booths they are looking for or tell them where the bathrooms are. If I’m buried in paperwork behind a table, no one will get the chance to meet me or feel comfortable coming up to me.

Q: What should attendees do to make the most of an event?

SO: Why are you going? Have your goals defined and plan ahead.

Know exactly what you want out of the show, and try to get this information early so you can relax and enjoy the rest of the show. Show producers want you to find what you are looking for, and so do the exhibitors! Take advantage of show guides, information booths, apps, show websites and staff walking the show to help make your experience a great one.

Q: If speaking to someone who has never attended a show, why should they go?

SO: Shows are a great overview of the industry and a very convenient way to get a lot done in a short amount of time. You have the opportunity to talk to multiple vendors in one place instead of making five different phone calls or trying to drive out to meet with them in person at their physical locations. For businesses like Frigibar who don’t have a store, shows are a wonderful opportunity for customers and vendors to see our products outside of visiting a partner who showcases our products or seeing it on a friend’s boat.

See what Shuly and Frigibar are up to by following us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.