Please select your home edition
Edition




 

Congress update and corporate announcements this week - MarineBusinessWorld North America newsletter

by Peter Rendle 29 Apr 08:00 PDT
American Boating Congress (ABC) © National Marine Manufacturers Association

For those attending the recreational boating industry's premier advocacy event, the American Boating Congress (ABC), the latest agenda offers a detailed look at the policy discussions that will drive this year's advocacy in Washington, D.C.

Taking place May 4-6, ABC will convene industry leaders and policymakers to focus on the most pressing issues facing recreational boating. This year's program includes a fireside chat between NMMA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Chief Conservation Officer Holly Bamford, highlighting how conservation and access can work together. Attendees will also hear updates on NOAA's review of the 2008 vessel speed rule.

Meanwhile the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) announced the recipients of its 2026 Outstanding Technician Awards during International Marine Service Technician Week, held April 20-24. Sponsored by CWR Wholesale Distribution, the ABYC awards recognize ten technicians for exceptional customer service, technical skill, training and mentorship. In addition, the New Achiever Awards recognize emerging professionals in the marine service industry who demonstrate strong potential and technical skill.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) and a global leader in marine propulsion, held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Industrial Design Studio, marking a significant investment in the future of product design, innovation, and collaboration. The new 18,000-square-foot, two-story, state-of-the-art facility is designed to support modern design and development and reflects Mercury Marine's long-term commitment to investing in its people, processes, and innovation pipeline.

Marine Products Corporation (NYSE: MPX) announced that its Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.14 per share payable May 14 to common stockholders of record at the close of business on May 8. Marine Products Corporation is a leading manufacturer of high-quality fiberglass boats under the brand names Chaparral and Robalo.

BRP Inc. (TSX/NASDAQ: DOO) announced that its annual meeting of shareholders will be held on May 28 and will be conducted by live webcast. Registered shareholders and duly appointed proxy holders are strongly encouraged to vote their shares in advance of the Meeting as described in the Company's Management Information Circular, or to vote virtually at the Meeting online.

Southern Marinas, a premier owner and operator of marinas in the United States, announced a successful recapitalization, effectuated as a sale by affiliates of KSL Capital Partners, LLC to Stonepeak, a leading alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets. Founded in 2018, Southern Marinas owns and operates a diversified portfolio of 16 marinas strategically located across Florida, Idaho, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Washington.

Everglades Boats has announced the addition of Bay Marine Yacht Sales to its expanding network of authorized dealers. This partnership strengthens Everglades' presence in the Northeast and brings the brand's premium offshore fishing boats to one of the region's most respected family-owned marine dealerships. A second-generation dealership, Bay Marine has built its reputation on exceptional customer service and a deep commitment to the boating lifestyle.

More marine industry news at www.marinebusinessworld.com/NorthAmerica

Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media

Related Articles

Solution for redundant fibreglass boats launched
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania The global marine industry is facing an unprecedented materials crisis. Right now, 35+ million fibreglass boats worldwide are reaching their end of life. With no scalable pathway for recycling, these vessels are becoming an environmental burden. Posted on 30 Apr
New cruising ground in Asia?
Travel scheme could allow Hong Kong, Macau yachts to sail to 6 Greater Bay Area ports Guangdong provincial government document also shows several routes recommended for leisure, such as Pearl River Delta, Castle Peak Bay Posted on 25 Apr
Boat Show updates across the region this week
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania Calling all yachties! Round up your crew because the Southern Hemisphere's largest marine event, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS), is hitting the Gold Coast from 21-24 May with its most show-stopping line-up yet. Posted on 23 Apr
Economic factors now affecting boat sales
A summary of news relevant to marine businesses across North America NMMA's latest Monthly Recreational Boating Industry Data Summary, reflecting data through January 2026, indicates continued softness across the recreational boating market as elevated interest rates and cautious consumer sentiment weigh on demand. Posted on 22 Apr
A variety of news across the industry this week
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania The Southern Hemisphere's largest marine event, Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) will make its highly anticipated return to the Gold Coast from May 21 - 24 with a star-studded line-up of exhibitors. Posted on 16 Apr
It's all about sailing this week
A summary of news relevant to marine businesses across North America Clean Sailors, the organisation behind the innovative ReSail platform, announced an exciting new partnership with Circular Flow, a leader in neoprene reuse solutions. Posted on 15 Apr
Sydney Boat Show event delivery partner announced
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania The Boating Industry Association announced Exhibitions and Trade Fairs have been appointed as the event delivery partner for the Sydney Boat Show 2026, bringing more than three decades of experience in delivering world-class exhibitions and conferences. Posted on 9 Apr
Mixed signals from industry bodies re market state
A summary of news relevant to marine businesses across North America NMMA released its annual Outboard Engine Sales Trends report, part of the 2025 U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, offering a comprehensive look at one of the recreational boating industries closely watched segments. Posted on 8 Apr
Free trade agreement suggests new opportunities
A summary of news relevant to businesses across Oceania European Boating Industry (EBI) applauds the recent EU free trade agreements announced with the Mercosur region, Australia and India. Posted on 2 Apr