American Sportfishing Association urges swift action - MarineBusinessWorld North America newsletter
by Peter Rendle 7 May 2025 08:00 PDT
Fishing Rod © American Sportfishing Association
ASA President Glenn Hughes sent a letter to top Trump Administration officials expressing support for its efforts to address global trade imbalances and strengthen U.S. competitiveness, while urging swift action to provide greater certainty and relief for ASA members harmed by tariffs.
If the current trade situation persists - particularly 145% retaliatory tariffs on China - many U.S. sportfishing businesses will be forced to reduce operations or close their doors entirely. ASA stands ready to work with the Administration toward solutions that preserve American businesses, protect U.S. jobs, and support conservation and recreation.
The American Boating Congress (ABC) will officially open May 13 at 8am with a dynamic general session featuring NMMA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer, alongside two of the industry's most influential executives: Brett McGill, President and CEO of MarineMax, and Bryan Redmond, CEO and Co-founder of Suntex Marinas. This powerful panel will set the tone for the industry's premier advocacy event, emphasizing the importance of a unified voice in Washington and a forward-looking mindset amid shifting economic and regulatory changes.
Mack Boring & Parts Co. announced it has purchased a new headquarters facility in Somerset, New Jersey. The new campus includes a 55,000 sq. ft. building on over 8 acres, and expected approval to expand up to a total of 120,000 sq. ft. as business needs evolve. The company has selected the facility with a focus on a wide range of operational requirements, as well as improving its ability to provide employees with an enjoyable and collaborative place to work.
The annual Sail America Industry Conference (SAIC) landed in Annapolis, MD, in mid-April, opening with keynote speaker, Michelle Alexandrowicz of Engage: "Recruit and Retain Your Talent, Team Culture and Communication in the Workplace". This was followed by Chris Watson of KVH, who spoke on "AI for Maritime: Applications, Ethics, and Guardrails for Use". The afternoon was filled with lively panels, including "How Tariffs are Affecting your Business", "How to Bring Your Best to a Boat Show", and "Finance and Insurance".
Meanwhile in Europe, Metstrade, the world's largest trade exhibition for the leisure marine industry, is set to mark a significant new chapter as it prepares for its 37th edition in November. Marking an historic first the event will occupy the entire RAI Amsterdam complex to provide a more spacious layout with numerous advantages. Responding to evolving market dynamics, Metstrade 2025 will provide a platform that fosters international trade and shared industry progress.
Also expanding, the U.S. Dealer Network for Highfield RIBS now stretches from Maine to Hawaii. Highfield Boats USA, the leading supplier of rigid inflatable boats in America, announces it has added four new dealer partners to its U.S. sales network. They include Boater's Choice and Keenan Marina in Michigan, and Reliable Marine and Riddle Marine in Hawaii.
Suntex Marina Investors LLC, a recognized leader setting the standard of excellence for marina operations, announced today that Saguaro Lake Marina in Mesa, Arizona has been acquired through its joint venture. Expanding into this rapidly growing area, this is the third Suntex marina and third Suntex Boat Club within a two-hour drive of Phoenix.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media