If the industry’s first show of the winter schedule is any indicator, the return of the NMMA’s Nashville Boat Show last weekend is signaling that events across the country can anticipate strong runs.
There was a definite feeling of excitement and energy from exhibitors and attendees as they poured through the gates. Perhaps the excitement was heightened by show’s return after a two-year Covid hiatus, but Nashville also featured the new Discover Boating branding, plus many new activities and attractions.
While final reports are expected later this week, crowds and ticket sales were reported to be good and steady each day, leading to strong overall attendance. Equally important, exhibitors reported to the NMMA team that they were experiencing solid sales and leads, the true indicator of a good show. It’s also notable that higher-ticket items were reportedly doing well.
NMMA also launched its “Boat Finder” tool at Nashville, which will help gauge buyer interest and leads. The success in Nashville is a reminder of the powerful marketing opportunities to engage current boaters and attract newbies that shows deliver for our industry.
And as the winter show-and sell-season throttles up, keep in mind that boat shows can also be a way to promote the solid careers available in the marine industry. The upcoming Cleveland and Seattle shows are good examples.
The Cleveland Boat Show, produced by the Lake Erie Marine Trades Association, opens this Thursday and will premiere a Marine Training Center, sponsored by B’laster Products. Serving a dual purpose, the center will include tips and DIY advice clinics appealing to all boat owners, from first-time skippers to experienced sailors. They’ll learn basic maintenance, get expert tech advice and enjoy presentations on how to keep a boat shipshape.
The presentations will also call attention to and outline the many good-paying careers in Ohio’s boating industry. In addition, the exhibit will have an jobs board that’s updated daily.
In Washington, the Northwest Marine Trade Association will tackle the labor shortage in a different way. The Seattle Boat Show, which opens Feb. 3, will include a Career Fair the morning of Feb. 6. It’s open to all show exhibitors and is viewed as a convenient way dealers and manufacturers can showcase their company and its job opportunities in front of a crowd of potential applicants.
At the conclusion of the Career Fair, attendees get complimentary admission to the show so they can learn more about the boating business and the lifestyle it represents.
NMTA also has a Career Center that provides another avenue to promote job openings.
