"Steady as she goes" is the industry message - MarineBusinessWorld North America newsletter
by Peter Rendle 23 Apr 2025 08:00 PDT
Retaliatory Tariffs on U.S.-made boats © National Marine Manufacturers Association
As the recreational boating industry faces shifting economic tides, understanding the sentiments of its leaders has never been more critical.
NMMA recently launched the Marine Leadership Barometer, a quarterly survey with the first one fielded for Q1 2025, designed to capture the insights and expectations of its member CEOs and senior executives regarding the industry's current and future state. Respondents completed the survey between March 10-21. During this two-week period, which fell ahead of April 2 "Liberation Day" and subsequent tariff announcements, in a cautiously optimistic signal for the U.S. recreational boating industry, 45% of marine manufacturers reported a guardedly positive outlook for the year ahead.
On April 13, the European Union officially suspended its proposed retaliatory tariffs on US-made imports, including recreational boats, until July 14. The European Commission announced the 90-day pause following President Donald Trump's move to delay the implementation of higher tariff amounts on certain countries.
GOST (Global Ocean Security Technologies), a world leader in marine security, tracking, monitoring and video surveillance systems, announced strategic company restructuring and leadership changes to better serve its customers and further expand the company's reach around the world. GOST founder and Chief Technology Officer, Brian Kane will now lead the company as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. This new appointment comes as Jay Keenan transitions to the company's Chief Marketing Officer role. Both Kane and Keenan will serve on GOST's Board of Directors.
The Multihull Company is pleased to announce their appointment as an authorized dealer for Nautitech Catamarans. This exciting partnership marks a significant expansion in The Multihull Company's portfolio of world-class cruising catamarans. Nautitech is renowned for building unique, high-quality catamarans that combine premium finishes with technical prowess and unparalleled comfort. Nautitech is keenly focused on combining their heritage and time-honored skills with a mastery of the latest technology available. They have become a top choice for long-range cruisers and adventurers alike.
SailGP, the world's most exciting racing on water, is excited to introduce SailGP+ - a revamped fan loyalty and membership program. This free platform offers fans exclusive content, special offers, and top-tier competitions. As the community platform of the cutting-edge sports and entertainment property, SailGP+ will offer the rapidly growing global fanbase of the Rolex SailGP Championship the opportunity to go behind the scenes of the sport, with a range of benefits putting them at the heart of the action, on and off the global racetrack.
GB Marine Group, designer and builder of the iconic Grand Banks and Palm Beach Motor Yachts brands, is excited to announce the appointment of Lynn Fischer as Chief Marketing Officer. On the heels of successful new product introductions, a recent 114,000 square-foot factory expansion, and ongoing strategic investments in brand presence and owner services, CEO Mark Richards recognized the importance for a veteran U.S. based brand strategist.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media