MINNEAPOLIS (June 15, 2026) — The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) announced today the publication of ANCHORING: The 9 Leadership Disciplines That Redefine Dealership Success, a new book authored by MRAA President Matt Gruhn.
Drawing on nearly three decades in the marine industry and 15 years leading MRAA, Gruhn challenges conventional thinking about dealership success and presents a leadership framework designed to help dealers adapt to a rapidly evolving marketplace.
“The dealership business model is under pressure from forces that extend far beyond inventory levels, interest rates, or economic cycles,” said Gruhn. “Customer expectations have changed. Technology is changing. Workforce dynamics are changing. The dealerships that thrive in the future will be the ones that intentionally evolve their leadership, culture, and operating practices to meet those realities.”
The book introduces the ANCHORING framework, built around nine leadership disciplines that help dealerships create stronger customer experiences, improve organizational performance, and build long-term business sustainability. ANCHORING: The 9 Leadership Disciplines That Redefine Dealership Success is available in paperback, hardcover, and digital formats through Amazon.
The framework emerged from years of dealer engagement, industry research, and firsthand observation of dealership operations throughout North America. It is also informed by extensive research into the boat ownership experience, customer retention, dealership operations, and the evolving expectations of modern consumers. Research conducted by MRAA and industry partners has consistently shown that customer confidence, usage, ownership satisfaction, and long-term retention are closely connected to the experiences dealers create throughout the ownership journey.
“One of the greatest privileges of my career has been working alongside thousands of dealership leaders who care deeply about their customers, their teams, and their communities,” Gruhn said. “This book is a reflection of what I’ve learned from them, combined with what evolving trends and research tell us about where retail is headed.”
After eight years as publisher and editor-in-chief of Boating Industry magazine, Gruhn joined MRAA in 2011 and has led the association through a period of significant growth and expansion. During his tenure, MRAA has broadened its educational offerings, relaunched its annual conference, launched industry certifications, expanded dealer development programs, strengthened research initiatives, and increased the reach of its advocacy on behalf of marine retailers.
For more information about the book, visit www.ANCHORINGbook.com.
About Matt Gruhn
Matt Gruhn is President of the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas. Since joining MRAA in 2011, he has worked with dealers, manufacturers, and industry stakeholders throughout North America to advance dealership performance, customer experience, and business sustainability. Gruhn is a frequent keynote speaker, author of a monthly column in Soundings Trade Only, and advocate for the professionalization of marine retail.
About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA)
The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas is the trusted catalyst for success in the marine retail industry. Dedicated to fueling dealer growth and strengthening the boating experience, MRAA delivers industry-leading insights, expert guidance and proven solutions that assist marine retailers in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. Through education, advocacy and innovative resources, MRAA empowers dealers to thrive, and helps drive a stronger, more sustainable marine industry. Learn more at MRAA.com.
