Political involvement in our industry inevitable - MarineBusinessWorld N America newsletter
by Peter Rendle 22 May 2024 12:00 PDT
National Safe Boating Week © National Marine Manufacturers Association
Recognizing the importance of safe boating practices, the White House is formally acknowledging National Safe Boating Week, May 18-24, issuing a formal proclamation and encouraging all who participate in boating activities to learn more about safe boating practices and take advantage of boating safety education opportunities.
On May 20th, the American Sportfishing Association's Mike Leonard, Vice President of Government Affairs, and Mike Waine, Atlantic Fisheries Policy Director, met with staff from the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs to share concerns with the overreaching vessel speed restriction rule being sought by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The two focused their comments on the rule's flawed economic analysis and risk assessment.
This week, the Biden administration announced the conclusion of the four-year review of the Section 301 tariffs on imports from China, increasing tariffs on several sectors and establishing a new, very limited exclusion process for domestic machinery. The administration is not removing the current Section 301 tariffs - which impact more than 300 commonly used components, materials, and parts used in the marine manufacturing process.
Advocates from the recreational boating and fishing industry gathered in Washington, D.C., last week to tackle the pressing issues confronting the $230 billion sector during the three-day American Boating Congress (ABC). Conversations with lawmakers focused on infrastructure, boater access, manufacturing, and sustainability, and ABC attendees heard from multiple speakers, including Mike Allen and Alex Thompson of Axios and Nathan Gonzales of Inside Elections to get an insider's look of the inner workings of Congress, the Administration, and the concerns of voters.
Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) released its 2023 Sustainability Report today, highlighting its actions in social and environmental responsibility. The Company improved its performance from the previous year in reducing carbon emissions, energy consumption and water use, and attained zero waste to landfill status at a record number of locations.
Partnerships and expansions: YANMAR Marine International has announced a new strategic partnership with Aspen Power Catamarans which will see YANMAR's engine fitted on board Aspen's C100 model, aiming to redefine efficiency and performance in the power catamaran industry.
AB Inflatables USA, the market leader in aluminum and fiberglass rigid inflatables boats, has started out the new selling season with a bang. Sales have been brisk and inventories have drastically improved over the past two years. They have appointed three new AB Inflatables dealerships: Shelter Island Inflatables - San Diego, California, Erie Marine Boats - Marblehead, Ohio, Strictly Yamaha - Miami, Florida.
Nautor Swan, the iconic Finnish yacht manufacturer renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless elegance in its yachts, proudly announces the appointment of 26 North as the exclusive dealer for the Swan Power Boat Division in Florida. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies, combining Nautor Swan's legacy of excellence with 26 North's unparalleled expertise in luxury lifestyle solutions.
People: US Sailing has announced that Mike Van Dyke, California sailor and current board president of the California International Sailing Association, has taken a position as a director on US Sailing's Board of Directors. "We are so pleased to add Mike to the Board of Directors," said Board President Rich Jepsen. "As we look towards LA2028, Mike's experience within the Long Beach sailing community will be crucial to getting us ready to excel at our home Olympic Games."
MarineMax Cocoa welcomes their new general manager, Doug Cline, to their team. Doug, a proud Brevard County native, brings a wealth of experience from his career with automotive and power sports manufacturers across the southern U.S. His deep local roots, extensive industry knowledge, and enthusiasm for boating are evident as he joins the MarineMax Cocoa team, forging a stronger bond with our community.
Dream Yacht Sales & Ownership have announced the appointment of UK native Jeremy Tutt to the position of Global Yacht Sales Director. Jeremy brings a wealth of industry expertise and a proven track record of success to his new role, having held key positions in the marine and yacht sales sector for over two decades.
On a personal note: my apologies for not issuing a newsletter last week. The curse of Covid resulted in a lack of activity for a couple of days.
Stay vigilant,
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media