With the fall boat shows in our wake, the focus is now on the major-market winter shows set to kick off in just seven weeks in three big markets: Atlanta, Boston and Chicago.
Moreover, the The Wall Street Journal reports that the Federal Reserve’s decision on another rate cut in December is somewhat complicated by economic disparities. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell indicated last week that another rate cut we’re hoping will be a boost to boat show sales may no longer be a certainty.
Regardless, exhibit space in shows around the country is already in short supply as dealers recognize the value of these events. That’s because every show celebrates the boating lifestyle.
Our shows are more than just commercial events. The atmosphere is electric, filled with anticipation of summer. Today’s shows are designed with features and hands-on activities that immerse attendees in a “boating fever” that can positively impact sales.
Above all, boat shows deliver something no other promotional medium can do: deliver thousands of prequalified enthusiasts face-to-face with the dealership sales team. Indeed, when attendees pay $20 to enter a show, they certainly aren’t just casual observers. Rather, their enthusiasm for boating provides a unique selling opportunity for every dealer.
To ensure qualified prospects fill the aisles, show producers make certain their events also include crowd-pleasing entertainment and activities that reflect the fun of boating and fishing. The Seattle Boat Show, the West Coast’s largest show, just announced a major expansion of its lineup of fishing experts and seminars for the 2025 edition.
Produced by the Northwest Marine Trade Association, the 2025 schedule will boast a whopping 150 free fishing and boating seminars. Topics will be as diverse as the fishing options in Washington, including shrimping, squid jigging, halibut, lingcod, tuna and, of course, salmon.
Attendees will learn expert techniques in sessions that cover downrigger tricks, maximizing electronics and using GPS anchors to locate fish, along with insider tips and tools for reeling in more crab for the dinner table. It will all be billed as a unique opportunity to learn from the best in the Northwest and elevate your angling game.
The Seattle show covers two locations — indoors at Lumen Field Event Center and on the water in downtown Seattle’s Bell Harbor Marina. The show is scheduled for Jan. 31-Feb. 8. Free shuttles run between both locations.
Similarly, shows around the country will be featuring expanded entertainment and seminar offerings this winter, covering subjects ranging from popular places to cruise to maintenance tips.
New at many shows this year will be special exhibits and presentations on career opportunities in the boating industry. I’ll share some of the new approaches to attract young people slated for shows in Cleveland, Detroit, Boston and others in future Dealer Outlook posts.
The bottom line seems certain to be the same in every market this winter: Being in a local boat show will be the No. 1 way for dealers to reach a large, qualified audience in one location at one time — and to close deals.
