Organizers of the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference today announced the attendance results of the show, which wrapped up Thursday last week.
The show welcomed 8,600 industry professional from 70 countries, including 4,600 visitors, 27% of which were from abroad.
“We are thrilled with the participation and enthusiasm of visitors, exhibitors, educators and sponsors of this year’s event,” show director Anne Dunbar said in a statement. “Seeing the crowded aisles and hearing from many exhibitors about the critical business that took place during the show was extremely satisfying.”
The Industry Breakfast, Innovation Awards presentation and keynote address on opening day was sold out, with more than 900 attendees. Thirteen Innovation Awards were handed out, along with four honorable mentions. NMMA president Frank Hugelmeyer gave a state-of-the-industry address, and Conor Lokar, ITR senior forecaster, gave the keynote address.
Career Day gave more than 60 students and five instructors from three Florida marine technical schools a glimpse into the boating industry.
“I’m a student at Manatee Tech, and we were so excited to be a part of IBEX’s Career Day,” said Aaron Akel. “It was a great opportunity to see new technology and innovations, and to find out what’s available for future job opportunities.”
