Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/776460
30 | Boating Industry | February 2017 [ 2017 Outlook ] www.BoatingIndustry.com among the first markets to be hit in the eco- nomic downturn, but recovery came much quicker for Florida. But with the help of more rainfall this year, California experi- enced 17 percent growth in 2016, according to Info-Link. "I think we can still see some upside po- tential for it [to continue in 2017] just because [California's market] was so large and it was so slow to recover, that once it starts to take hold, probably there will be more marketing resources pushed at it because there's more activity now," said Houseworth. Keeping up the pace in 2017 While expectations were a bit more unpredict- able in 2016, 2017 should be more stable, par- ticularly considering it is not an election year. "I don't see anything out there cataclys- mic, either on the positive or the negative side, other than continued low-to-mid single- digit growth. That's our expectation for 2017," said Houseworth. SSI data reflected several peaks and val- leys month to month in 2016, which Kloppe expects to even out more in 2017, leading to more predictable sales growth. POWERBOAT SALES BY STATE 12 MONTH ROLLING THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2016 UNIT SALES BY PROPULSION 12 MONTH ROLLING THROUGH SEPTEMBER Source: Info-Link Technologies % Difference in units -10.0% 10.0% MAJOR CONCERNS We asked readers what their biggest concerns were heading into 2017. Many were worried about the ability to reach new buyers and if those buyers would be able to afford boating. "The current growth of the economy. The hope is to see strong market for more years to come." "Government agencies, such as the EPA, ignoring emerging science and statistical data and clinging to their preconceived viewpoints on E15 fuels." "Stability is needed after this past presidential election." "The fiberglass boats we have in stock. We have started putting outboards on them to help them sell." "Reaching the younger buyers, some of which have not experienced the boating lifestyle." "The potential for a major economic downturn." "That consumer confidence, GDP and gas prices stay in good alignment to facilitate the release of discretionary income for boat/boating purchases." "Finding good employees." "The price of boats and being an affordable option for recreational activities as well as the aging boating population and less younger people being involved as the trend to other more affordable recreational activities." "If I expand how I can increase my custumer base?" "What we don't know now. The apparent reckless attitude of the new president could trigger unforeseen consequences." "That middle class Americans will have lower incomes and higher taxes resulting in fewer boats sold than in 2016." "Deregulation on important environmental protections that directly effect the boating industry. We need clean, AIS free and accessible water to boat in." "Not enough young people and the prices [have] gone up so much that it's hard to attract new clients." "The economy and government regulations."