However , Hugelmeyer also noted that all of that being said , the NMMA is optimistic and anticipating to see a rebound in 2025 , and the organization is hearing the same thing from its members across the industry .
Looking back
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable ( ORR ) debuted new economic data released by the U . S . Department of Commerce ’ s Bureau of Economic Analysis ( BEA ) in late November 2024 , highlighting outdoor recreation ’ s significant contribution to the U . S . economy . The overall outdoor recreation industry generated a record $ 1.2 trillion in economic output in 2023 , supporting 5 million American jobs and accounting for 2.3 % of the nation ’ s GDP .
In a news release from ORR in late 2024 , Jessica Turner , president of the ORR , elevated the new data as a testament to the strength and importance of the outdoor recreation economy . “ With over $ 1.2 trillion in economic output and generating 5 million jobs , this marks another year of growth for the outdoor recreation economy , underscoring its resilience and importance across the nation ,” Turner noted . “ The new BEA data highlights outdoor recreation as a cornerstone of our economy , generating jobs , supporting small businesses , and providing essential opportunities for Americans to engage with the outdoors for health , connection , and quality of life . This new data should signal to policymakers and leaders across the country that investing in outdoor infrastructure and access must remain a national , bipartisan priority . We urge this Congress to take swift action to pass the EXPLORE Act , a widely supported package of bills that will help to ensure that all Americans have access to the outdoors and support the communities and businesses that rely on recreation economies .”
Recreational boating plays a vital role in the outdoor recreation industry , driving economic activity , innovation , and outdoor enjoyment .
“ The BEA data confirms that recreational boating remains a strong contributor to the American economy ,” said NMMA ’ s Hugelmeyer , who serves as the current Board Chair of the ORR . “ With 93 % of boat builders being small businesses , and 95 % of boats
Frank Hugelmeyer
sold in the U . S . made in the U . S ., it is crucial to prioritize policies that protect access to public waters , keep marine manufacturers globally competitive , and drive industry innovation . Americans ’ passion for being on the water continues to fuel both our economy and our commitment to preserving outdoor recreation opportunities .”
U . S . Recreational Boating by the Numbers
Source : National Marine Manufacturers Association ( NMMA ) Annual U . S . sales of boats , marine products and services totaled $ 57.7 billion in 2023 , down 2.6 % from 2022 .
Boating and fishing are the leading driver of the $ 1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy , which contributes 2.3 % of our nation ’ s GDP . ( Source : Bureau of Economic Analysis )
www . boatingindustry . com december 2024 / january 2025
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