Zodiac, initially known as Zodiac Aerospace, was founded in 1896 by Maurice Mallet in France. The company originally specialised in manufacturing airships and other aeronautical equipment. During the early 20th century, Zodiac diversified its product range and began focusing on inflatable boats, which quickly became a significant aspect of its business. The development of inflatable boats was driven by innovation and practical needs, particularly during the conflicts of the 20th century where their durability and portability proved invaluable.In the 1930s, Zodiac introduced the first inflatable boat designed for leisure use, revolutionising the boating industry. These early models were initially used by the military and later gained popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and rescue organisations due to their robustness and versatility. Over the ensuing decades, Zodiac continued to innovate, enhancing the design and functionality of their inflatable boats. Their brand became synonymous with reliability and quality, making Zodiac inflatables a preferred choice globally.Today, Zodiac Nautic stands as a prominent name in the boating industry. The company is now based in Summerville, South Carolina, USA, having expanded its operations and market reach significantly over the years. Zodiac remains at the forefront of inflatable boat technology, offering a wide range of products from leisure crafts to professional-grade boats used by military and rescue services around the world. Their commitment to innovation and quality continues to drive the brand's success in the marine industry.