Boat shows draw buying crowds, put dealers face-to-face with prospects and fill prospect funnels, all of which were evidenced again at last weekend’s Orlando Boat Show in Florida. Meanwhile, the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association offers members some unique programs, a testament to the value to dealers of membership in local associations.

The Orlando show, produced by the Marine Industry Association of Central Florida, was another success story. Staged at the Orange County Convention Center March 25-27, it boasted more than 20 of central Florida’s largest dealers, representing more than 80 boat brands. Despite supply-chain problems, dealers still staged effective exhibits. Moreover, strong sales proved that consumer shows have returned in full force.

“In-person shows remain a powerful opportunity for both new and avid boaters to meet one-on-one with dealers and discover the perfect boat for their lifestyle,” said David Ray, MIACF executive director. “Even in the age of digital marketing, boat buyers clearly continue to want the tactile experience, and our show is the effective marketing channel that connects with customers.

“While daily attendance continues to ebb and flow influenced by current social and economic conditions,” continued Ray, “buyers were clearly drawn to take advantage of new offerings and, particularly, some extra show-only incentives that dealers offered, like extended warranties, service packages, dockage, and enhanced electronics and accessory packages.”

Justin Miller, owner of Dealers Choice Marine of Orlando, said: “Our mission is to offer a higher standard when it comes to the details of delivering boats of the highest quality and value. This show was an exceptional show, and we are once again ecstatic about our sales.”

Kerry Bartlett, with Beachline Marine in Port Canaveral, concurred. “The Orlando Boat Show was the best spring show we have ever attended. We sold every boat we brought,” he said.

MIACF’s next boat shows are scheduled for Aug. 12-14 in Orlando and Sept. 16-18 in Daytona.

MMTA Members Get Good Programs

“For all marine dealers, membership in their local marine trade association has benefits that make paying dues a genuine bargain,” says Randall M. Lyons, executive director of the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association.

Consider these three programs that MMTA makes available to its membership:

1. Dynamic Waste Program An environmentally positive effort to recycle shrinkwrap is again being offered at a special reduced rate.

2. Training Funds Program MMTA has received workforce-related funding from the state for the past several years. The association can make available the funds to eligible MMTA member businesses that have training expenses.

3. Tools of the Trade Gift Cards Gotta love this program! MMTA has consistently worked at recognizing and encouraging new employees entering the industry. One way is by offering gift cards to MMTA member employees to build their tool boxes. It also recognizes and encourages their development within the industry.

Not a member of your local marine trade association? You’re missing out on many benefits. Join your local MTA today.