Despite economic considerations awards still vital - MarineBusinessWorld North America newsletter
by Peter Rendle 25 Feb 08:00 PST
Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show® Industry Breakfast © NMMA
Last week at the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show Industry Breakfast, NMMA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer delivered his annual State of the Industry address, outlining both the challenges that shaped 2025 and the opportunities ahead.
Economic headwinds and elevated borrowing costs softened new powerboat sales last year, yet participation in boating remains strong and early boat show activity points to steady consumer engagement. Looking ahead, Hugelmeyer struck a tone of cautious optimism, highlighting NMMA's coordinated growth strategy through the Market Expansion Advisory Group, continued advocacy focused on pro-growth policies and expanded water access.
Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), a global leader in marine technology, has been awarded a Gold BOSS (Best of Show Stand) Award, placing fourth overall among the top experiential exhibits at the Consumer Electronics Show. The Awards, presented by The Experiential Design Authority and hosted by Exhibit City News, celebrate the most compelling, human-centered exhibit experiences from this year's Show in Las Vegas.
Hurricane Boats, legendary innovator in versatile deck boat designs, announced it has been awarded a National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Customer Satisfaction Index Award in recognition of exceptional, year-round customer satisfaction. The honor was presented on February 12 during the Innovation Awards Breakfast at the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show. This marks Hurricane's ninth CSI award.
Godfrey Marine, manufacturer of pontoons built with enduring quality and superior craftsmanship, announced it has been honored with its 20th NMMA Customer Satisfaction Index Award. Recipients must achieve an independently measured standard of excellence of 90% or higher in customer satisfaction over the past program year, based on information provided by customers purchasing a new boat.
Sunstream Boat Lifts, a leading manufacturer of premium boat lifts and the SwiftShield Automatic Boat Cover System, announced today that its Founder and CEO has been awarded the Alan J. Freedman Memorial Leadership Award. The award, presented by the NMMA, recognizes individuals who've made outstanding contributions to the marine accessories industry through leadership, creativity and personal motivation.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media