West Marine recognizes top marine industry vendors with 2019 VIV Awards
by Renee Harvey 6 Sep 2019 02:48 PDT
L to R - Ron Baime, Chris Dorfmeister (Garmin), Ken Seipel, Randy Buffon, Cristina Kochevar, Brian Obeolewicz © Renee Harvey
West Marine recently hosted its 25th annual Very Important Vendor (VIV) Awards recognizing eight vendors for superior partnerships. The VIV Awards celebrate vendors who continually go above and beyond to help West Marine serve their customers throughout the year.
As a leading boating, fishing and sailing retailer, West Marine has always looked to recognize excellence in its partners. West Marine considers several factors when choosing these awards, including consistent excellence in product quality, sales growth, supply chain and sales support.
"West Marine is committed to our mission of outfitting, educating and inspiring boaters. We are able to consistently fulfill that mission thanks to our vendors who pursue excellence right alongside us," said Ron Baime, chief merchandise officer for West Marine. "We work with the best brands and suppliers in the marine industry and are thrilled to continue growing and innovating with them."
Winners of West Marine 2019 VIV Awards:
- Vendor of the Year: Garmin
- Best Sales Growth: Johnson Outdoors
- Best New Product: JL Audio
- Best Supply Chain Partner: West Systems
- Best Vendor Representative: Ed Washburn, Sun Selections
- Best West Marine Pro Support: Lumitec
- Best E-Commerce Support: JL Audio
- Best Store Support: New England Ropes
www.westmarine.com