The 37th edition of Metstrade got underway this morning at RAI Amsterdam. The industry trade show this year fills all 13 halls at the convention center — a first — with a record 1,700 exhibitors.
Preshow activities began Monday evening in Hall 8 and the new Harbour 8 restaurant, where Metstrade organizers welcomed partners for cocktails and dinner. “This community is what makes Metstrade, and I can’t thank our staff enough for all the hard work they do making the show a success,” Metstrade director Niels Klarenbeek said. “I also thank all of our partners.
“Metstrade for the first time fills the entire RAI — all 13 halls — and we’re excited to join with the global marine leisure industry for a great show,” he added.
During this morning’s breakfast briefing, Klarenbeek noted the global economic challenges facing the marine industry: trade policies/tariffs, global politics and consumer uncertainty.
International Council of Marine Industry Associations president Frank Hugelmeyer, who is also the National Marine Manufacturers Association president and CEO, provided an update on the state of the global boating business.
“The headwinds we have been dealing with create an innovation moment for the industry,” Hugelmeyer said. “When these types of moments happen, you have those headwinds and challenges, but you also have opportunity.”
Hugelmeyer noted a recurring theme of uncertainty. “Consumers are nervous,” he said, “but we come together here not just to connect [with each other] but also identify risks and better understand them.”
Regarding those consumers, Hugelmeyer said the industry must adapt. “We’re seeing a massive new wave of consumers who think differently and are different,” he said. “Change is coming, and it’s going to be rapid. If we are to succeed, we need to warmly welcome and speak to the next generation of consumers.”
Cheryl Brown, managing director of charter outfit Le Boat, spoke about this new generation of consumers in her keynote address.
“Our job is to introduce new people to a different way of going on holidays,” she said, “and many of our potential customers do this planning online. Google search used to be that planning tool. Now it’s artificial intelligence. There’s no ignoring it; AI is going to change our lives and this industry. We’ll need to embrace it or get left behind.”
The last portion of the breakfast was dedicated to the presentation of the DAME Design Awards, which recognize excellence in product design and innovation. The program attracted 146 entrants, which were narrowed down to eight category winners and 18 special mentions. The winners can be viewed here.
The RAI halls opened at the conclusion of the briefing to a rush of attendees. According to Klarenbeek, Metstrade last year hosted 19,779 unique visitors who made 31,284 visits. “We expect to exceed those numbers this year,” Klarenbeek told Trade Only Today.
The show runs through Thursday.
