NMMA Press Release
"Broad-based, one-size-fits-all trade shows are going away in many industries," says NMMA executive vice president Ben Wold. "These shows are not providing the value or benefits as they did in the past. This is a key factor that led to the development of our new marine accessory show (Marine Aftermarket Accessory Trade Show, MAATS), which is highly targeted and focused on the marine accessory aftermarket."
"Dealers go to boat and engine manufacturer meetings and distributor trade shows to purchase their boats, engines and accessories. As a result, there is no longer a critical mass of dealers who need an event like the Boating Week Expo and its predecessor, IMTEC," says NMMA President Thom Dammrich. "Our role is to add value to our members' businesses and the industry, and this trade show no longer provides sufficient value to justify its continuance.
According to Dammrich, NMMA is discussing options for continuing efforts to unite the industry for growth with an executive-level meeting. NMMA members and its partner organizations continue to see high value in bringing the industry together to discuss important industry issues that prevent it from achieving its full potential.
No final decision has been made on the date, name and location for the all-industry meeting. The current dates in Orlando (October 2-5) are being considered as are alternate dates and locations in the fall of 2001. Because the current Boating Week 2001 dates in Orlando conflict with the Annapolis Sailboat Show, a major sailing industry event, NMMA hopes to be able to make arrangements to schedule the new all-industry meeting at a time when the sailing industry can fully participate.
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