It’s time for the outboard manufacturers to stop charging their dealers to sell their products. Times have changed, and with sales at a new industry low, my dealership, for one — I know I’m not alone — has had to adapt by cutting costs in every way possible. (Read More…)

A new feature was launched this week at the New York National Boat Show: an “Affordability Pavilion” featuring eight boats from different builders, each of which can be financed for $250 or less a month. (Read More…)

If your business is doing poorly now, you don’t need anyone to tell you that it is. But I thought you might be interested in something I’ve been picking up on our annual trip south. (Read More…)

When discussing the change in dates of the 2008 New York National Boat Show, there are several points of view. Many have asked me, “Why are you going?” The short answer is that I see a great opportunity (i.e. with less exhibiting, there is less competition). (Read More…)

With attendance down only 6 percent from last year’s record, the mood at the 2008 METS show was decidedly upbeat, despite the ominous clouds produced by global economic problems. Some exhibitors, however, did express concern about their economic future and how well their companies would weather what lies ahead. (Read More…)

The economy was the biggest topic of conversation at this week’s Marine Dealer Conference & Expo in Las Vegas. Many of those who attended talked about the decrease in sales they were seeing this year and the worries they had for the future. (Read More…)

Early this year a group of marine industry professionals got together to discuss their frustrations with, at that time, the traditional banking industry. Many key topics were discussed, from boat loans to floorplan financing. (Read More…)

During the past year, fuel prices have been extremely volatile and seemed to be at their peak in the midst of the boating season. For some boaters, this season was a time to scale back on their boating. For others, it was a time to modify their boating habits so they could still enjoy their vessels without breaking the bank. Customer needs and the marketplace are changing, which creates the opportunity for something new and different. (Read More…)

Lately we’ve all been re-evaluating many aspects of this business, especially where we spend our money. Let’s face it: There isn’t as much coming in as there used to be, so we have to be a little more prudent about what flows out. (Read More…)

The days of the “order taker” are over. No longer can a retailer continue doing business the same way as in the past. Look for opportunities, experiment, try something new and monitor the results. (Read More…)