Not every year is defined by flashy launches or overnight success. Some years are about laying foundations, refining ideas, and quietly building momentum. This past year was exactly that, and in hindsight, it turned out to be one of the most important chapters in our journey so far.
Refinement before the breakthrough
At the start of the year, much of our focus was on design iteration. We went through multiple knife concepts that ultimately didn’t meet our standards. Rather than forcing something to market, we chose to step back, reassess, and refine.
- Take a look at how the Zero is made: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5B9BjdFPGKI
- Learn more about our new Zero design: https://knifenews.com/rivery-mfg-returns-with-kitted-out-zero-g/
Preparing for the big stage
As the year progressed, preparation ramped up. We developed several products and refinements in anticipation of key industry events, most notably Blade Show Atlanta. At the time, it didn’t feel like a dramatic shift, just steady work, long days, and careful planning.
But once we arrived, things changed fast.
When things took off
Our timeline truly took off when we showcased our work at SMKW and got them as a dealer. From there, Blade Show followed shortly, and what felt like 12 months of progress happened in just 30 to 60 days.
Post–Blade Show, growth accelerated rapidly. Dealer interest increased, visibility expanded, and momentum built in a way we hadn’t experienced before. What started as careful preparation quickly turned into exponential growth.
- RiveryMFG at Blade Show Atlanta - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/FoD6LQDp0lI
- RiveryMFG at the SMKW Fall Event - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DP6f81UjTEr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
As we continue to grow, we’re actively looking to expand our dealer network further. We’re currently seeking dedicated retail partners in the UK, Germany, and Japan. If you’re a dealer who values craftsmanship, precision manufacturing, and long-term brand building, we’d love to hear from you.
Growing the team
All of this happened while operating with a lean team. During this period, we grew from 4 employees to 6. An important milestone that reflects not only increased demand but also our ability to scale responsibly while also maintaining quality and consistency.
- Learn more about us and our journey thanks to this SMKW Knives 101 Article: https://smkw.com/knife-101-rivery-manufacturing
A major milestone: Zero-G Kickstarter
One of the year's biggest highlights was the successful funding of our Zero-G on Kickstarter. With 1,952 backers, the campaign exceeded expectations and validated the direction we’ve been working toward.
Production is already well underway, and multiple batches have been sent to CadLab for anodizing, turning concepts into finished, reliable products. Seeing this process move forward at scale has been both humbling and motivating.
Looking back, and forward
In retrospect, this was a year defined less by a single moment and more by compounding progress. Design improvement, strategic preparation, dealer growth, team expansion, and a successful Kickstarter all converged into a period of rapid acceleration.
We’re heading into the next year with clearer direction, stronger partnerships, and the confidence that comes from building things the right way, even when it takes longer than expected.
Thank you to our dealers, backers, partners, and everyone who’s supported us along the way. This year set the stage for what comes next, and we’re just getting started.
To everyone, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a very Happy New Year.