Boating Industry

January 2014

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we think those manufacturers that continue to introduce new products with new technology will be successful. The industry needs to continue to promote boating and the boating experience as a great return on investment in terms of family fun and enhanced relationships. Growing the market through diversity initiatives such as those underway by RBFF will help attract and reach new audiences. ROCH LAMBERT, PRESIDENT, REC BOAT HOLDINGS 2013 Mover & Shaker of the Year We are all hoping for increased consumer confidence of course, but we must focus on acting on the things we can control – providing consumers with meaningful innovations that give them a reason to buy our brand. Offering differentiation is key in any industry where discretionary income is the driver. There is a solid base of boat owners out there and manufacturers need to keep ahead of the curve by constantly providing new and fresh products. RYAN HEBERT, ADMINISTRATOR, TEXAS MARINE 14 industry leaders offer their keys to a successful year Chairman, MRAA Young Leaders Advisory Council The industry must continue to adapt to an ever-changing economic climate for 2014 as well as be able to spread the message to the customer base that things are improving. We as an industry need to educate the boating public on the positive economic improvements heading into 2014 including a strengthening housing market, greater consumer confidence and easier lending. BY JONATHAN SWEET JIM LANE, PRESIDENT, CHAPARRAL & ROBALO e asked several industry leaders what they see as the keys to a successful 2014 for the marine industry. Here is some of what they had to say. To read more from these industry leaders, visit BoatingIndustry. com/14keys to see the uncut versions of their answers, as well as what they are focusing on at their companies this year. Perhaps some resolution to all of the situations that are occurring in Washington. I think there's just a lot of uncertainty and what we need to do is improve consumers' attitudes. I think the Grow Boating campaign this year is going to do a very, very good job with that. If the retail boat shows kick off and have a good season, I think that will pave the way for us for the rest of the year. A stronger economy certainly doesn't hurt either. People are motivated by their attitudes. w FRED PACE, MANAGING PARTNER, LEGENDARY MARINE 2012 & 2013 Dealer of the Year Barring any hurricanes or dramatic changes in Washington, we think 2014 will be a great year if we work hard to keep our existing customers engaged and using their boats, along with additional efforts to attract new boaters to experience our products. We believe customers will embrace new technology despite the high cost of entry. Many manufacturers are fulfilling this need and 24 | Boating Industry | January 2014 P24x26-BI14JAN-KeystoSuccess.indd 24 TOM WHOWELL JR., DIRECTOR, GORDY'S LAKEFRONT MARINE Why are we in this business? Do we inspire people? How do we make people feel? How www.BoatingIndustry.com 12/18/13 10:04 AM

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