Archive for 2013

No Super Bowl is good, but no E15 would be better
Thursday, May 23rd, 2013

Concerns that the Super Bowl would be called for “clipping” the marine industry’s iconic winter boat shows in Miami were benched on Tuesday when the NFL team owners voted to go to a new stadium in San Francisco in 2016 and Houston in 2017. (Read More…)

A checklist of outlawed phrases
Tuesday, May 21st, 2013

We’re now in our peak months of selling. While industry sales figures are mixed and somewhat below expectation because of the lousy spring weather in the Midwest, our recovery continues to move forward with increased activity at the dealership level. (Read More…)

Lake Erie stakeholders take up fight for clean waters
Thursday, May 16th, 2013

It’s as much about the economy as it is the quality of life for a group of concerned Lake Erie stakeholders who are notable for their newly-formed economic interest group called the Lake Erie Improvement Association. And perhaps it’s a good model for others similarly affected. (Read More…)

When ‘I’m sorry’ is not enough
Tuesday, May 14th, 2013

A well-timed apology to a customer with a problem can save the day. Unless, of course, it ends there. (Read More…)

To wield political influence, you need an association
Thursday, May 9th, 2013

With representative from all segments of the industry gathered in Washington today for the American Boating Congress, it gives us reason to pause and consider just how boat dealers can really affect what happens to them politically. (Read More…)

Testimonials can be a powerful influence
Tuesday, May 7th, 2013

We don’t get them because we probably don’t ask for them. We might not always get what we ask for, of course. But if we never ask, we can bet we won’t get what we’re seeking. (Read More…)

Is random boarding of vessels unconstitutional?
Thursday, May 2nd, 2013

Michigan outlawed it. Ohio lawmakers are on course to prohibit it. Arkansas has declared it unconstitutional. If nothing else, the subject of random boarding of the nation’s recreational boaters is finally taking center stage. (Read More…)

Industry should focus on growing Hispanic market
Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

We frequently talk about our need in the marine industry to embrace — make that vigorously pursue — diversity for our future growth. If being an industry that’s “inclusive” isn’t a motivator, or if “political correctness” doesn’t spur action, how about recognizing that’s where prospects with money can be found? (Read More…)

Employee benefits can benefit you, too
Thursday, April 25th, 2013

Want to keep good employees? Offer good benefits. There’s great truth in that. But the costs continue to rise, pushed mostly by many mandated benefits such as Social Security contributions, Medicare taxes, disability and unemployment insurance (I don’t even want to touch looming healthcare issues). (Read More…)

Internet tax and Coast Guard fees on the horizon
Tuesday, April 23rd, 2013

The playing field might finally be leveling when it comes to taxes on Internet sales, while a renewal fee for documented boats is being sought by the Coast Guard for the first time. (Read More…)