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North Sails Loft 57 Podcast

U.S. boat sales reached second highest volume in 12 years in 2019, expected to remain strong in 2020

by National Marine Manufacturers Association 8 Jan 2020 04:15 PST
U.S. boat sales reached second highest volume in 12 years in 2019 © Kelly Kaylor

NMMA announced in a release today retail unit sales of new powerboats are estimated to have held steady in 2019 at approximately 280,000 units, the second highest total since 2007. The busy winter boat show season kicks off this week across the country and NMMA expects new powerboat sales to be up as much as 2 percent in 2020.

"Sales in 2019 were nearly on par with the 11-year high we saw in 2018, even with some softening particularly in the freshwater fishing category, which we attribute to unseasonably cold and rainy weather in spring and early summer. Looking at 2020, with the economy on solid footing and key economic indicators like consumer spending remaining strong, we expect another healthy year for new boat sales, which could be up as much as 2 percent," said Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA president. "With approximately $42 billion per year in retail expenditures, boating is not only an economic driver but a unique vehicle for the kind of meaningful experiences consumers are seeking more and more—ones that take you outdoors, bring together family and friends, and create lasting memories."

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