• How the Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo Propels Hagadone Marine Group to New Heights
By Kodie Woodhead, Director of Marketing, Hagadone Marine Group & Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises
In 2024, The Hagadone Marine Group hosted their sixth annual Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo, marking yet another year of resounding success and community engagement. This event, held at the picturesque Blackwell Island Marina on beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, has become a cornerstone of the company’s calendar and a pivotal driver of sales, community building and brand visibility.
Initially, Hagadone Marine Group participated in the local Spokane Boat Show. However, recognizing the potential for a more personalized and expansive showcase, the company launched its own event in 2019. This decision has paid off spectacularly, with attendance growing from hundreds in the early years to more than 6,500 visitors annually. The Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo is the largest event hosted by Hagadone Marine Group, and it significantly boosts the company’s sales, accounting for 20-25 percent of annual boat sales.
Preparation for the Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo is a comprehensive endeavor, with over 30 days dedicated to readying three showrooms. This intensive effort ensures a seamless and captivating experience for attendees. The marketing campaign for the event is equally extensive, drawing potential customers from across the region and as far as the Seattle, Wash., area and beyond. The successful execution of this event is a testament to the team’s dedication and the Hagadone Marine Group’s strategic vision.
The Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo is a celebration of the local boating community more than it is a sales event. Leading up to the main event, several smaller activities, such as Wine & Whiskey Wednesdays, Kids Surf Day and VIP Night, create buzz and drive traffic to the showrooms. These pre-event gatherings offer exclusive show pricing and foster a sense of anticipation and community among boating enthusiasts.
Every year, the Boat Expo introduces exciting new features to captivate attendees. One highlight, in 2023, was a boat giveaway, which drew thousands of visitors in a single day. These attractions not only enhance visitor experience but also underscore Hagadone Marine Group’s commitment to innovation and customer engagement.
For the team at Hagadone Marine Group, the Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo is a source of pride and an opportunity to showcase their expertise and customer-centric approach. President Craig Brosenne emphasizes the dealership’s dedication to maximizing fun on the water while minimizing hassle. Whether it’s delivering dinner to a client’s dock or providing driving lessons on a new boat, the team’s commitment to exceptional service is evident.
For Marine Retailers Association of the Americas members considering hosting their own events, the success of the Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo offers five valuable insights. It highlights:
- The importance of strategic planning
- Collaborative teamwork
- Extensive marketing
- Community engagement
- Continuous innovation
By creating an event that not only boosts sales but also unites the local community and showcases top-tier service, dealerships can build lasting relationships and drive significant growth. The Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo exemplifies how a well-executed event can transform a dealership’s fortunes, foster community spirit and create unparalleled opportunities for growth.
For Hagadone Marine Group, it’s a tradition that continues to thrive, setting a benchmark for excellence in the marine retail industry. As other dealerships look to emulate this success, they can draw inspiration from Hagadone Marine Group’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences both on and off the water.
For more event ideas and best practices for success, visit the MRAA Spotlight page.