Ricardo, you are the CEO of Böker Arbolito in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The title for a CEO there is "Presidente." That sounds impressive. You gave us permission to address you as Ricardo before the interview. When and how did you come to work at Böker Arbolito?
In July 1983, the insolvent knife manufacturer Biselcorte from Buenos Aires was up for sale. However, they had a brand license agreement with Böker a few years earlier. Thanks to this connection, a comprehensive overview of the Argentinian knife market was available, making a branch of the long-established Solingen company seem quite feasible. Ernst Wilhelm Felix-Dalichow was the managing director of Böker at the time and had recently expressed his interest in purchasing the factory. However, he stipulated that he would only do so with a local partner who was intimately familiar with the Argentinian market. I became that partner. We founded Boker Arbolito SA as a joint venture, and production began in October 1983. The factory is located in Ezpeleta, approximately 25 km from the capital, Buenos Aires.
What did you do before? How did you end up in this particular industry?
Previously, I worked as an engineer at Mercedes-Benz Argentina and also ran a traditional gun shop in the heart of Buenos Aires. In that capacity, I imported Böker knives and a wide range of firearms to Argentina and gradually established the business.
What are the special conditions and challenges involved in knife production in Argentina?
I was, and still am, very curious about the potential inherent in different manufacturing processes and where one can actively contribute one's knowledge and skills. This motivates me immensely and keeps my mind young. Over the years, I've also discovered my passion for product design. When the products are well-received by customers and sales figures are strong, I feel truly fulfilled.
The Arbolito brand, like Böker Solingen, Böker Plus, and Böker Magnum, is distributed worldwide. How do you maintain contact with the Böker locations in Solingen and Denver, and with the international markets?
I always participate in the pioneering trade fairs and online meetings, and I regularly travel to Solingen, the USA, and, before COVID-19, also to Asia.
What is the tradition of knives in Argentina?
Agriculture has always been an important factor in our economy, and in this context, we must of course mention the legendary Gauchos, who have always sworn by Arbolito knives and will continue to do so in the future.
How would you describe the characteristics and appeal of your Arbolito knives, and which users did you have in mind when designing them?
The character of an Arbolito knife is essentially defined by its function and its unmistakable design. For me, that's the soul of our knives. Our products are primarily aimed at outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, chefs, butchers, and also collectors.
What is your personal relationship to knives, and are you a user yourself?
Knives define my life in many ways. My thoughts constantly revolve around conception, function, design, production, and even the sale of the finished product. And let's be honest: an Argentinian steak tastes so much better when cut with an Arbolito knife.
Besides knives and shops, do you have any other passions that you enjoy in your free time?
Family, friends, some literature and some sports like windsurfing and cycling.
What should an outdoor enthusiast absolutely do when visiting Argentina?
Argentina has many beautiful facets to offer, some of which I would like to briefly outline here: in the north lie the mighty Iguazu Falls; at the foot of the Andes is the city of Bariloche with its picturesque lakes, mountains, and forests. Also worth seeing is the Paraná River Delta near Buenos Aires, as well as Tierra del Fuego at the southern tip with its imposing glaciers. But there is much more to discover in Argentina.
What are the must-see sights in Buenos Aires?
Culturally, Buenos Aires has a lot to offer. There are several art museums, not to mention the traditional steakhouses, various parks and boulevards, and lively tango dance evenings. Add to that music, polo, football, and much more. Above all, however, is the Argentine zest for life, which will stay with every visitor.
Ricardo, thank you very much for the interview.