Letters from the Editor
The Greatest Trade Show on Earth
This year, Metstrade was the biggest ever. Here are some observations from the show and what it means for our industry
Inside Scoop
IBEX and Metstrade are my favorites among the fall shows, as they gather so many industry leaders from core sectors.
A Special Kind of Tough
The recreational boating industry is kept afloat by hard-working individuals who do the dirty jobs that not everyone is cut out to do.
The Pursuit of Happiness
Enjoying time on the water, no matter the activity, is what we’re selling as an industry. It’s important that we remember these things first and foremost as we recruit people into the fold and bring others back.
It’s the Service, Stupid
My hope is that dealers consider their delivery practices and include enough staffing time to their sales and service staff to provide the ultimate aftercare experience.
Focus on the Fun
What we can do as an industry right now — impending recession or not — is focus our energies on convincing the middle-income buyer that boating is a sustainable, long-term and affordable way to have lasting fun.
Innovation Returns in Full Force
The year's International Boat Builders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) which took place in Tampa, Fla in October sets the stage for the trends we’ll see across the industry in the coming year.
The Shows Must Go On
Fall boat shows are the best way to get a pulse on how innovation and technology are helping to grow the industry and make boating easier.
The Price of Entry
I believe we can welcome even more folks to the water by educating them about affordable alternatives, such as used boats, boat clubs, charters and more.
Green Tech
Soundings Trade Only team put together this issue, which focuses on climate, the environment and sustainability. The recreational marine industry is helping lead the way when it comes to solving environmental problems with technological advances.
It’s the Customer, Stupid
Developing customers who love you is a long game, not a short grab for profits. Dealers are right to be concerned about headwinds the industry is facing, but everyone at dealerships still must maintain focus on the customer experience.
Our Voices Count
Without advocacy, the marine industry wouldn't have a voice. Each May, the NMMA’s American Boating Congress gathers marine industry stakeholders in Washington, D.C. and includes discussions with members of Congress and administration officials about what’s affecting the marine industry and where we need their help.
The Tech Plateau
While some may be underwhelmed with the slower pace of new-product releases, there is some tech on the horizon that I find quite exciting to help make boating safer, easier and more sustainable.
The Great Outdoors (Economy)
This issue has a theme that dips a toe into boating and RVing, two industries that share many similarities.
Service With a Smile
At the end of last year, I began to hear dealers, boatbuilders, component producers, engine manufacturers, association leaders and other industry leaders start to ask the same question: How do we keep the windfall of new boaters we gained during the Covid bubble?
Out in Front
Our continuing goal at Soundings Trade Only is to bring the industry important information before it appears anywhere else. The news on the ground may be good or bad, but it’s always news that we know our readers can use.
The New Normal
As some things revert to familiar territory, we are entering a new, new normal.