Ingolf Nitschke, a former, much devoted Pouch employee and fervent kayaker, decided to take the risky plunge into Western capitalism by purchasing Pouch's manufacturing equipment and spare parts inventory. The fledgling business survived the first few years only because of its strong, quality oriented non-marine carpentry division. The boat business itself made losses and was kept alive as a pure labour of love by the owner and his dedicated team. Since the mid-1990s boat building at Pouch has experienced a strong upswing. Ingenious innovations in Pouch boat technology, which spring from an unbridled enthusiasm to explore the possibilities of folding kayak construction, as well as the freedom of building for a receptive market, are the hallmarks of this upswing.
All models retain wood as the material of choice for all frame members.
This is in keeping with tradition. However, the application of new types of metal fittings, as well as modern advances in design and construction, have taken the frames far beyond tradition. Pouch builds hulls out of Hypalon or PVC coated fabrics. Folding boat veterans and discerning paddlers of all stripes, are returning to the good old, traditional Pouch brand and take pleasure in the excellent quality and workmanship that befits its heritage. Pouch kayaks are still built by hand, a time-honoured practice for most folding boat builders.