// INDUSTRY NEWS
“ In recent years , Mercury Marine and Mercury Racing have raised the bar for innovation in the outboard engine market by introducing new V8 and V10 models at the top of our range . Now , we have responded to customer demand by expanding our V6 offerings . With the 150R and 200R , our customers have a wider range of hightech , sophisticated outboards to choose from to power their boating adventures ,” said John Buelow , president , Mercury Marine .
Kawasaki Motor Corp . hosts CA assemblymember at HQ
Last month , Kawasaki Motor Corp . hosted California District 72 Assemblymember Diane Dixon at their facility in Foothills Ranch , California . Supported by NMMA , Kawasaki Motor Corp . leadership accompanied Assemblymember Dixon around the headquarters and discussed issues impacting the California area .
The visit emphasized the importance of Kawasaki ’ s economic footprint to the region as well as the commitment of Assemblymember Dixon to the recreational marine industry in California .
“ We at Kawasaki Motors Corp ., U . S . A . were pleased that Assemblymember Dixon was able to make it a priority to tour our Foothill Ranch , California North American headquarters located in her district . Kawasaki was able to showcase its commitment to the marine industry as the original large scale personal watercraft ( PWC ) manufacturer in addition to engaging in meaningful discussions on the various issues that affect our business , dealers , customers , and the marine industry as a whole ,” said Russel Brenan , Senior Advisor , Government Relations and Public Affairs at Kawasaki Motor Corp . “ We are encouraged by Assemblymember Dixon ’ s willingness to advocate for our industry , her many constituents that actively participate in recreational boating , and the interest she takes in the business community in her district .”
NMMA said recreational boating in California has a $ 17.3 billion annual economic impact and supports over 48,000 jobs across 2,800 businesses .
Suntex Marinas Acquires Hidden Cover Marina
Suntex Marina Investors , LLC ( Suntex ) announced that it has acquired Hidden Cove Marina in north Texas .
A full-service marina in the Dallas-Fort Worth area , Hidden Cove Marina is positioned on the east side of Lake Lewisville , in Hidden Cove Park . The marina offers 374 wet slips and 615 dry , each with access to electric , water and cable with size accommodation ranging from 24- to 48-feet . Its amenities include fuel sales , a ship store , boat rentals , an onsite restaurant and gated entry to the docks . The marina also allows boaters and customers easy access to an RV park , beaches , nature trails and private restrooms and showers .
“ Hidden Cove provides access to one of the most popular recreational lakes in North Texas known for water sports , fishing and large boating events ,” said Michael Warntjes , Senior Vice President of Operations , Suntex Marinas . “ Hidden Cove is a secluded treasure with close proximity to rapidly growing cities including Little Elm , Frisco , Prosper and Celina . Suntex is thrilled to further expand our footprint with Hidden Cove and look forward to providing the best of what we have to offer to the local boating community .”
Palm Beach International Boat Show expands to 5 days in 2025
The Palm Beach International Boat Show ( PBIBS ) announced it will expand from four to five days in 2025 . The event , owned by the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County ( MIAPBC ) and produced by Informa Markets , will now kick off on Wednesday , March 19 , 2025 , and run through Sunday , March 23 , 2025 , along
Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach .
This expansion comes in direct response to strong demand from both exhibitors , eager to showcase their products , and attendees , looking for more opportunities to explore and engage with the event . To meet this demand , PBIBS will introduce a dedicated “ preview ” day on Wednesday , offering a first-look opportunity at the show ’ s exhibits . This format is already a successful feature at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show .
“ Both our attendees and exhibitors have been vocal about adding another day to enjoy the show . We are thrilled to be able to deliver another special day . By adding a preview day , we ’ re giving industry insiders more focused time to explore the show and creating an opportunity for very serious buyers to walk the show before the larger crowds arrive ,” said Andrew Doole , President of U . S . Boat Shows with Informa Markets .
Alyssa Freeman , Executive Director at the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County , added , “ This change will provide exhibitors and attendees with more opportunities to connect and do business , which is what makes PBIBS such a key event for our local and global marine industry .”
MRAA adds senior director of engagement
The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas recently announced it has hired Freya Olsen as its senior director of engagement .
With nearly 20 years of marine industry-based association experience , Freya brings a wealth of proven expertise in
Freya Olsen
12 october 2024 www . boatingindustry . com