Discover Boating Boat Shows Kick Off in Nashville January 5 as Brand Expands to 11 Major Market Events

• NMMA Continuing its Long-Standing Relationship with Progressive® Insurance for Discover Boating® Boat and Sport Shows

Discover Boating®, powered by the NMMA and Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), announced today the re-branding of NMMA’s full lineup of consumer boat and sport shows under the Discover Boating brand, kicking off January 5 in Nashville and 10 other major markets in 2023. The expansion of Discover Boating across boat and sport shows comes as a result of NMMA’s investment in the brand as the association works in partnership with the MRAA to attract the next generation of boaters while retaining and growing the existing boat owner community.

Boats lined up and docked for Discover Boating boat show. Image supplied by NMMA.
2023 Discover Boating Boat & Sport Shows schedule announced.

“The integration of Discover Boating with NMMA boat and sport shows extends our industry’s impact, reach and marketing power to further engage attendees and attract a wider net of boating and outdoor enthusiasts, while delivering a more cohesive industry voice,” said Ellen Bradley, senior vice president and chief brand officer for NMMA. “There has never been a more opportune time to unite Discover Boating and our shows as we welcome back attendees across the country, reimagining what it means to connect our industry with customers while leveraging these industry-owned events to grow boating and cultivate the next generation of boaters.”

Discover Boating boat and sport shows will feature the brand’s visual identity both onsite and online while providing a more connected experience for attendees and exhibitors with the launch of the Discover Boating Boat Finder— a digital platform that empowers customers to begin the boat-shopping process weeks ahead of the show they plan to attend.

“The new digital Discover Boating Boat Finder solves consumers’ desire to explore the latest boat models from all of the top brands in one place, right from the palm of their hand, complementing the in-person show experience and connecting attendees directly with exhibitors and brands before, during and after the show,” noted Matt Gruhn, president of MRAA. “The industry’s lifestyle brand, Discover Boating, is a powerful tool for anyone interested in boating. Its ability to connect and educate consumers, from first-time boat buyers to tenured boating enthusiasts, about boating, operation and ownership makes it an authoritative resource for anyone seeking more knowledge.”

As NMMA boat and sport shows transition under Discover Boating, the association is continuing its long-standing relationship with Progressive® Insurance, an industry leader in boat insurance. For the next five years, Progressive will be in partnership with Discover Boating boat and sport shows. 

“We’re excited to continue our partnership with Progressive as we work together to reimagine what it means to connect the recreational boating industry with our existing customer and new-to-boating customers,” said Jennifer Thompson, senior vice president of boat and sport shows for NMMA. “Progressive will help shape and enhance certain aspects of the Discover Boating show attendee experience and further expand our collective reach to millions of boaters and outdoor recreation enthusiasts.”

“For more than a decade, Progressive has witnessed the energy, passion and enthusiasm the boat shows bring to people all over the country,” said Eric Doubler, Progressive Recreational Lines Direct Business Leader. “As a leader in boat insurance covering over one million watercrafts, we have a great desire to help continue to grow the sport, which is why it’s a natural fit for us to invest even further in partnership with the boat and sport shows.”

The 2023 Discover Boating boat and sport show schedule:

As NMMA continues to evolve its boat and sport show portfolio, and after thorough analysis alongside exhibitors and NMMA members, the association is not planning for a 2023 Baltimore Boat Show or St. Louis Boat & Sportshow; however, the association will retain these assets for future opportunities.

“The NMMA is committed to upholding a presence in Baltimore and St. Louis, and we look forward to exploring new ways to serve both the boating industry and consumers in these markets as well as others in 2024 and beyond,” said Thompson.

In addition to the NMMA’s boat and sport show investment in Discover Boating, the brand plans to work with other industry-produced boat shows and organize new boating events and activations to further amplify industry-wide efforts to engage potential, new and existing boaters.

Discover Boating boat and sport show logos and other marketing materials for dealers and manufacturers will be available and shared in early November. Contact Sarah Salvatori for more information and media requests, ssalvatori@nmma.org.

Falco Opens Offices in Boston; Offers Full Range of Smart Marina Solutions Nationwide

• After working with over 20 marinas in Europe, deploying 2,000+ sensors, and having the world’s largest Smart marina as a client, the full Falco Smart ecosystem is now available in the United States.

BOSTON, Oct. 11, 2022 – Falco Americas Corp., wholly owned subsidiary of Falco Wattson Elements, leader in the French Blue Tech, creator of the Falco Smart Marina solutions, announced on September 1st, the opening of their first U.S. office in Boston, MA, significantly expanding their global footprint.

The United States counts over 12,000 marinas nationwide and is home to one of the strongest boating cultures in the world, alongside France. The industry has gained extensive traction proved by its many stakeholders, mergers and acquisitions, and the numerous marina portfolios under management. Falco is bringing deeptech innovation to this space, via its state-of-the-art IoT and data-analytics, to connect marinas and yacht club’s physical infrastructure – docks and boats- to digital tools interconnected in a smart and flexible way.

“We are excited to expand our geographical reach in line with our strategic plan to offer our highly demanded solutions in Europe, to the U.S. market” said Elsa Nicol, CEO and co-founder of Falco.

Falco Americas offers cloud-based, API-centric Smart Marina solutions. Customer top-picks include :

  • A white-labeled Marina App, connected with your marina management software and/or your website, for your customers to access news and events, renew and pay their contracts, book and pay marina and third-party waterfront services through Falco’s in-app dedicated marketplace, with push notifications to better engage with your customers.
  • Sensors to monitor occupancy in real-time, achieve lean management of slips and enable data-driven strategy to boost yield and revenue.

About Falco Americas Corp.

Falco’s mission is to support boaters through marina-based innovation. Our ambition is to empower marinas to become the hub of connected boating. We believe the marina is more than just a place where we store and shelter vessels – it is the future of boating innovation.
For more information, please contact Jonas Schneider at 617-785-6613, or jonas.schneider@wefaclo.com, or follow us on LinkedIn.

Marine Marketers of America Accepting Entries for 2022 Neptune Award Nominations, Adds 2 New Award Categories

• New Categories – Dealer Marketing Strategy, and Influencer Collaboration / Marketing

Marine Marketers of America is now accepting entries for the 2022 Neptune Awards competition, the most prestigious recognition program of marketing communications for marine marketers in North America.

MMA logo

The annual contest, now in its 15th year, is open to any company or organization producing and publishing marine industry marketing work between January 1 and December 9, 2022. Entries will be accepted through December 10. The winners will be announced in February 2023.

Stunning, crystal Neptune awards will be presented to winners live at the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show. This year’s awards feature 22 categories, covering all areas of marketing, from social media campaigns and video creation to innovative new digital tools and app development, from PR and diversity initiatives to the use of influencers.

New for this year, the organization added two categories – Dealer Marketing Strategy and Influencer Collaboration / Marketing.

Dealer Marketing Strategy is open exclusively to dealers to recognize the creative ways their teams strategized for boat shows, promotional materials, and community outreach, to name a few. It is only open to organizations that are customer-facing marine dealers.Influencer Collaboration / Marketing, open to all for entry, to recognize collaboration with an influencer in the social media space. This could include any takeovers, repost programs or long-term content production on behalf of the brand done by an influencer.

2022 Neptune Awards

Additionally, a best-in-show “King Neptune” will be awarded to the top entry among all categories.

“The last couple of years have seen significant changes to buying behavior in our industry,” said awards committee co-chair Alisdair Martin. “Every brand has had to rethink their marketing strategy to address new challenges. Having a truly great marketing team has never been more important than it is today. Creative, innovative marketers who get things done are harnessing new technology, reshaping strategy around modern consumer psychology and driving the success of their brands. Our Neptune Awards are a great place to recognize and honor the best of these marketers.”

The submissions will be scored by panels of independent judges following established criteria. More than 88 marketing professionals from throughout the industry served as judges for the 2021 awards and found it to be a very rewarding and educational experience.If you are a marketing professional and would like to join our judging panel, please email alisdairmartin@gmail.com for more information. The rules are structured so that no one can judge in a category in which there would be a conflict of interest.A link to the new Neptune Awards entry portal and complete program details are available atwww.marinemarketersofamerica.org.

For more information about the 2022 Neptune Awards program, please contact Alisdair Martin alisdairmartin@gmail.com.

Click here to download an image of Neptune Awards logo.

About Marine Marketers of America
Established in 2007, the Marine Marketers of America (MMA) is the exclusive voice for marine marketers, and the professional association representing recreational marine industry marketers. MMA provides ongoing professional development and networking opportunities, while recognizing the outstanding achievement of marine marketing professionals through its annual Neptune Awards. For information, visit www.marinemarketersofamerica.org.

Correct Craft Recognized as one of Marine Industry’s Most Innovative Companies

• 4th Year in a Row Company Recognized as No. 1 or No. 2 in the Industry

ORLANDO, FL (Orlando, FL 2022) – Correct Craft is once again honored to be named one of the “Most Innovative Companies” in the marine industry. Correct Craft received this recognition today during a virtual awards presentation hosted by Soundings Trade Only Editor-in-Chief Gary Reich.

Reich stated, “The ability to innovate is a key component of any successful marine business. Companies with industry-leading innovations not only make life better for boaters but also inspire other companies to advance in all kinds of areas.”

Correct Craft CEO Bill Yeargin stated, “I am incredibly proud of our team. For each of the last four years, in a marine industry with 35,000 companies, our team has been recognized as either the number one or number two most innovative. This is a tribute to each of our 2,100 employees and the innovative culture they embrace.”

Yeargin added, “At Correct Craft, innovation runs much deeper than just technology. Our team embraces innovation in culture, technology, processes, and even how we serve our communities. I am honored to work with such a great group of people!”

Soundings Trade Only had a judging panel that consisted of editors, staff members, and outside industry experts. They reviewed company initiatives focusing on altruism/social awareness, development and technology, work culture, manufacturing process/supply chains, start-ups, and sustainability.

About Correct Craft: Celebrating 97 years of excellence in the marine industry, Correct Craft is a Florida-based company with global operations. Focused on “Making Life Better,” the Correct Craft family includes Nautique, Centurion, Supreme, Bass Cat, Yar-Craft, SeaArk, Parker, and Bryant boat companies, Pleasurecraft Marine Engine Group, Watershed Innovation, and Aktion Parks. For more information, please visit www.correctcraft.com.

AMI Hosting Clean & Resilient Marina Course at Annual Conference and Expo

The Association of Marina Industries (AMI) will host its Clean and Resilient Marina Course at the 2023 Annual Conference. The course held January 29 – 30, leads right into the Marina and Boatyard Tour, the kickoff event at this year’s conference.

AMI’s Clean and Resilient Marina Course, is the first step in becoming a Clean and Resilient Marina Professional (CRMP) and accessing AMI’s online Clean Marina Verification Program. AMI’s Program, allows you to self-certify your marina as clean and resilient. The course also provides foundational knowledge for those seeking state-level clean marina certification.

The course covers clean marina topics including – marina siting and design, stormwater management, marina maintenance, facilities, and habitat, vessel maintenance and repair, and much more. More importantly, the course is designed to start you on your way toward facility certification, through classroom activities.

An agenda for the course can be found here and covers one and a half days of classroom time and activities and includes registration in AMI’s popular Marina and Boatyard Study tour, where you can put your knowledge to practical use while touring multiple marinas.  Register now while seats are still available.

Please contact Eric Kretsch, EKretsch@MarinaAssociation.Org, for more information about the Clean and Resilient Marina Program, or Kayce Florio, KFlorio@MarinaAssociation.org, for more information about the Annual Conference and Expo.

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The Association of Marina Industries (AMI) is a nonprofit membership organization that provides management training, education, and information about research, legislation, and environmental issues affecting the marina industry. 

Boaters Helping Boaters Fund Established

An MIA release

The Marine Industries Association of Southwest Florida and Tampa Bay (MIA), in partnership with the Old Salt Fishing Foundation, has announced the formation of the Boaters Helping Boaters Hurricane Relief Fund, supporting Families of those making a living on Southwest Florida waters. 

“It is hard to imagine the challenges our members and all those a part of Southwest Florida’s Marine Industry have faced in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian,” said MIA Executive Director John Good. “At the same time, it is heartwarming to see the outpouring of support and the efforts being made by our industry to get back to some level of normalcy as quickly as possible. While there are many worthwhile fund-raising efforts out there, our goal is to put dollars directly into the hands of those in our industry most in need. We are thankful that our friends at The Old Salt Fishing Foundation are joining the effort with us.” 

Established in 1971, the Foundation’s mission is “To create, protect and promote recreational fishing opportunities for Florida anglers and their families.” With an all-volunteer staff and board of directors, they hold several annual fishing tournaments, have extensive youth & family outreach programs, and angler education initiatives. Over the past ten years, they have donated more than $1 million dollars to deserving regional charities. Having raised $32,800 during Covid for the fishing community, they have the experience to properly accept and distribute funds. 

Boaters Helping Boaters flyer

100% of monies collected will go directly into the hands of those in need who are a part of the marine industry, fishing industry, marine law enforcement, and others related to the waterfront. The Foundation and the MIA will work together to be sure the monies go where most needed. “We see this as an ongoing effort,” said Good. “With Ian behind us and the area beginning the long road to recovery, folks are going to have needs for a long time and will very much appreciate the support of others in our industry.” The MIA kick-started the fund with a $2,500 donation and several others jumped aboard, building the fund to almost $14,000.00 as the effort is launched. 

The Old Salt Fishing Foundation is a 501c3 not for profit. Tax deductible donations can be made on-line at www.oldsaltfishing.org/hurricane . Checks should be made to Old Salt Fishing Foundation (Hurricane Ian Relief in the notes). Send to PO Box 8564. Madeira Beach, FL 33738 

For more information, contact John Good. 954-570-7785; john@swfmia.com 

Boat Finder Launching at 2023 Discover Boating Boat & Sport Shows

As NMMA’s full lineup of consumer boat and sport shows launch in January under Discover Boating, each will feature the brand’s identity, extending digitally to provide a more connected experience for attendees and exhibitors with the launch of the Discover Boating Boat Finder. This enhanced, added-value tool – for both consumers and the industry – empowers customers to begin the boat-shopping process weeks ahead of the show they plan to attend.

Discover Boating Boat Finder

Powered by the NMMA and MRAA, 2023 Discover Boating boat and sport shows kick off in January in 11 major markets across the country, including Miami, New York and Chicago.

Key highlights of Boat Finder:

  • With modern search functionality, users can efficiently isolate brands and models that match their very specific needs, getting them to their desired product faster;
  • take a deep dive into specific boat models with detailed descriptions, videos, specs, and features;
  • connect directly to the boat brand website; and
  • know exactly where to locate their selected boat at the show and connect directly with the dealer before they arrive.

To take advantage of Discover Boating Boat Finder, NMMA members must ensure their brands are represented at a Discover Boating show. Contact BoatFinder@nmma.org to learn more.

MRAA Adds Two More Partner Members in September

MINNEAPOLIS — The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas announced two additions to the list of MRAA Partner Members as supporting organizations.

Marine manufacturers, suppliers and service providers, through Partner Membership, commit to aligning their brands with the programs and opportunities that MRAA offers in its efforts to fuel the success of the marine industry. Support from Partners allows the association to expand its offerings and create a positive, long-term impact in MRAA members’ business.

MRAA Partner Member logo

MRAA’s two new Partner Members introduce a financial organization and a service and education provider to the association’s member companies. These two organizations commit their mission to supporting the marine industry by partnering with the MRAA.  

“MRAA’s great work is amplified by the support and trust of these new Partners.” says Allison Gruhn, MRAA Vice President of Business Development. “With the support from these organizations, MRAA can better fulfill our mission of serving the marine industry and our members.”

Visit https://mraa.com/partners/ to view the entire list of companies who actively support the MRAA across four levels of partnership.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

Performance Brokerage Services, Inc. Supports MRAA as a Platinum Partner Member

MINNEAPOLIS — The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas announced today that Performance Brokerage Services, Inc. joined the association as a Platinum Partner Member.

Through Platinum Partner Membership, Performance Brokerage supports the MRAA, its programs and the opportunities the association provides the dealer body in an effort to fuel the success of the industry. Commitments from Platinum Partners like Performance Brokerage allows for the expansion of MRAA’s offerings and creates a positive, long-term impact for its members.

Performance Brokerage Services, Inc. is North America’s highest volume dealership brokerage firm, specializing in buy-sell activity for automotive, RV, marine, powersports, commercial truck, and equipment dealerships. Governed by the utmost integrity and ethical conduct, a core principle of the firm is a smaller client base for each advisor to ensure that every client gets the proper attention that he or she deserves. Headquartered in California and supported by regional offices in Utah, Texas, Illinois, Ohio, Florida, New Jersey, Virginia, and Ontario, the firm provides clients national exposure to the top dealers across numerous industries

“After nearly 30 years of experience in multiple dealership industries, we have witnessed first-hand the tremendous value that strong associations like MRAA contribute to the success of their dealers. It was natural for us to partner with MRAA as we share similar values and are committed to representing the dealers’ best interests,” says Jesse Stopnitzky, Partner & Director of the Marine Division. “Attending Dealer Week will be a great opportunity for us to share with the nation’s top marine dealers all that makes Performance Brokerage the leader in buy-sell activity.”

Performance Brokerage also secured a space to exhibit at Dealer Week 2022. Their staff seek to connect with dealers, share insights about the buy-sell process, and discuss current market conditions. Exclusive to MRAA Members, Performance Brokerage offers a complimentary estimate of value on your marine business to help make the decision if now is the right time to sell. Learn more about how they can help your business by visiting their booth at Dealer Week and their website.

“Performance Brokerage Services has been in the automotive industry for nearly 30 years and MRAA is happy to welcome them into the marine industry with open arms,” says Allison Gruhn, Vice President of Business Development. “They will make a positive impact on our members among other dealers in the industry.”

About Performance Brokerage Services

Performance Brokerage Services, Inc. benefits from over 25 years of experience, 700 dealerships sold, and a 90% closing rate. As a family-owned company, we simply operate differently. Our agreements are flexible, straight-forward, and even allow for a termination clause. Our fees are reasonable, charging a success fee only with no upfront fees nor retainers. We do not hoard listings to build our inventory, we work hard to accomplish the unique goals of our clients. We understand the decision to sell a family business is complex, often emotional, and may even require a group consensus. Exclusive to MRAA Members, we offer a complimentary estimate of value on your business so you may decide if now is the right time to sell. We pledge to do it right, every time, one client at a time. Learn more about Performance Brokerage Services.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

Dealer Week Secures Record Number of Early Registrations

• Number of Early Bird registrations for MRAA conference highest since Dealer Week launched; 70 percent ahead of last year’s pace

MINNEAPOLIS, October 11, 2022 — Dealer Week, the annual conference of the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, wrapped up its Early Bird signup period with a record number of both total dealer registrations and first-time dealer registrants, setting the stage for a huge 2022 event.

Dealer Week 2022 theme
MRAA’s Dealer Week 2022

Dealer Week’s registration reached 456 total dealers, the highest it has been entering October since MRAA’s annual conference was rebranded as Dealer Week in 2019. The early-bird registration period, which offered a reduced registration rate, attracted 70 percent more dealership personnel than at the same point in 2021. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of the registrants did not attend Dealer Week 2021.

“As we enter the post-pandemic market place and look ahead to all of the uncertainty that 2023 presents to the boating industry, our dealers need answers on how to continually evolve their businesses,” said Matt Gruhn, MRAA president. “We built Dealer Week under the umbrella theme of ‘Discipline Amidst Disruption’ to provide dealers with a blueprint for how to continue the run of success they’ve experienced over the last three years. It’s clear that dealers understand how Dealer Week can help them prepare for the year ahead.”

Matt Gruhn, MRAA President

MRAA’s Dealer Week Conference & Expo is boating’s only event focused on dealer growth, as an industry gathering structured around exclusive education, peer-to-peer interaction and supplier and service provider connections. Dealer Week’s structure empowers dealers to make critical decisions about their business with confidence.

Whether it’s in person, online or a combination of both offerings, Dealer Week 2022 provides attendees with deep learning principles, best practices and implementable solutions to grow their business and make more money by building a stronger customer base through better service and an improved customer experience.

MRAA was founded in 1972 and will celebrate its 50th anniversary this December at a special 1970s-themed industry celebration during Dealer Week, Dec. 5-8 in Austin, Texas.

Additionally, following successful virtual options in 2020 and 2021, Dealer Week Online will be available in December for anyone who can’t travel to Austin for the conference or for anyone who prefers to “take Dealer Week back to their dealership” to train their teams.

Registration for both the online and in-person versions of Dealer Week is available now at DealerWeek.com.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.