The National Marine Manufacturers Association today announced that U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, a Michigan Republican, visited the Tiara Yachts manufacturing facility in Holland, Mich. The Nov. 17 visit provided an opportunity for workers and company leaders to demonstrate that policymaking has an impact on boatbuilders, small businesses and communities across the Wolverine State.
“We were honored to welcome Congressman Huizenga to Tiara Yachts and to demonstrate the family and community legacy of craftsmanship that began in 1974,” director of government relations David Slikkers said in a statement. “In the five decades since, we have remained committed to investing in environmental stewardship, innovation and designing
American-made boats that reflect the best of our designers and workers, crafted with pride right here in Michigan. Over the past five years, we have invested $35 million in our people, processes and equipment to build state-of-the-art products for our customers here and abroad.”
A major driver of Michigan’s economy, the boating industry supports more than 45,000 jobs and $11.7 billion in annual economic impact, according to the statement. Michigan is the third largest state for boating, with an estimated 800,000 registered boats and $1.5 billion spent each year by “millions of boaters.”
“Congressman Huizenga’s leadership helps ensure that western Michigan companies like ours can continue to grow, invest in our workforce and compete on a global stage,” Slikkers added in the statement. “We truly appreciate the congressman’s support for American manufacturing and the tens of thousands of jobs our industry sustains.”
