Garmin International announced that its Fusion brand has been selected as a supplier for the Independent Boat Builders, Inc., the industry’s largest purchasing cooperative.
Beginning model year 2020, members will have access to Fusion’s line of audio entertainment products for four years. Comprised of a 19-member network, IBBI members collectively build nearly 25 percent of all boats sold in the United States.
“IBBI members are some of the most innovative boat builders in the industry, and together with Garmin, Fusion is committed to supplying them” with new products and services, said Garmin global sales vice president Dan Bartel in a statement.
Fusion offers a range of stereos, speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers and audio accessories designed to withstand a marine environment. Its flagship head unit, the Apollo RA770, is the industry’s first touchscreen marine stereo with Apple Airplay and Wi-fi audio distribution, according to the company.
Garmin was also awarded an extension to continue as IBBI’s exclusive marine electronics supplier for the next five years, giving access to products that include chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar technology, high-definition radar, autopilots, and high-resolution mapping.
“We are excited to expand our strategic relationship with Garmin into the Fusion marine stereo product line,” said IBBI president Tom Broy. “The Fusion stereo products are top-of-the-line products that can instantly add a sense of quality to any boat. Garmin was just awarded our supplier of the year award, so extending our Garmin contract was an easy decision.”
Garmin was recently named Manufacturer of the Year for its fourth consecutive year by the National Marine Electronics Association.
