Even though she is the self-named “Newbie” of the marina world, Nancy Struthers, owner of Roger’s Marina in Summerstow, Ontario, Canada, has helped create a successful future for the family-built business.
Q: You and your husband purchased Roger’s Marina from its previous owners (your in-laws) in 2010. Tell us how did you get started in the boating industry?
Struthers: Roger’s Marina started with Yves’ grandfather Roger Allaire, so we are 3rd generation owners. It’s always been a dream of ours to own and work at the marina. So in 2010, when his parents wanted to retire, we jumped at the opportunity to purchased it from them. It has been keeping us busy ever since! Yves has been at the marina all his life and everyone knows him. But me, on the other hand, I’m the newbie.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your position?
Struthers: We’d like to say it’s the freedom to do what we want, but between March through December we are at the mercy of our clients. We are not complaining about this! Because of our genuine interest in our clients wants and needs we feel that we have grown our customer relations, and in turn have grown our business. We love what we are doing and hope to be able to do this for many years to come.
Q: What are some marketing strategies that Roger’s Marina has implementing in its business and how successful have they been to date?
Struthers: For advertising, I plan it out one whole year in advance. I write my details down and share it with everyone involved, whether that is with staff or the advertisers I work with. We are unable to participate in the area Boat shows, so I plan and piggyback off whatever event is going on. For example, the Toronto Boat Show is in January, so I advertise with a local radio station a week before to remind people to shop locally.
Q: What does the next 10 years look like for you and Roger’s Marina?
Struthers: How about the next 5 years… Currently, we are in the process of fixing up our docks for this season. In addition, we are decluttering the yard in preparation for our new 65 x 100 showroom and service area that is this coming October. We are very excited the new space, as our old building is just outdated and not energy efficient. Also, our tech is currently working towards becoming a Master Tech with Mercury!
Q: What are some things that people may not know about you?
Struthers: The first few things that comes to mind are 1) Yves and I are child hood sweethearts, 2) I enjoy reading and doing puzzles in my quieter time, and 3) I have never worked at a marina before purchasing one.
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