ASMEX speakers candid in their views of the Australian marine industry

by Superyacht Australia/AIMEX on 16 Apr 2012 It is refreshing in this day and age to see the broad base of speakers attending the ASMEX conference to be held 22 and 23 May at Sanctuary Cove and to know that they will be speaking from the heart with no constraints on their views and comments.

In a no holds barred approach the ASMEX conference wants to tell it like it is and to stimulate new thinking and new strategies within the Australian marine sector. It is about looking at 'what we can do not about what we can’t.' This thinking constrains innovation and progression. The conference this year is certainly gaining industry attention with registrations coming in steadily since they opened.

Businesses are looking for answers and want to see what other companies and countries are doing to stimulate demand and drive sales growth. The line-up of speakers will certainly deliver this.

Alistair Murray, MD of Ronstan a significant Australian manufacturer, exporting 70% of their production to over 40 countries has been very vocal in his view of the current market and the issues Australian manufacturers are facing.

'It is tough remaining competitive with so many factors working against us. High dollar, high costs of manufacturing, minimal government support, lower global demand. I hope to provoke thought and actions aimed at improving Australia’s export performance. We need to share ideas and strategies about overcoming these obstacles and take on the world as a united front rather than as individuals.'

It is expected Alistair Murrays presentation will certainly be hitting hard at the core of issues facing exporters and his presentation will no doubt hit a chord with delegates attending.

Another speaker sure to impress with his facts and figures will be Thom Dammrich, one of the most knowledgeable people involved in the US recreational boating industry. He will provide an up to date understanding of the trends and challenges in the US market today.

Dammrich will also give an insight into what is happening within the Superyacht sector there. Dammrich said 'With the US being a key trading partner for many Australian marine businesses this insight will be invaluable to drive strategies into this market and provide better understanding of the key drivers to be successful in this market' Dammrich is well known globally for his dynamic and factful presentations.

To ensure the European market is also covered ASMEX has included industry identity Marco Struik from Struik and Hamerslag, one of Europe’s most successful Superyacht custom built yacht interiors businesses.

Struik is passionate about gathering market intelligence and developing global relationships as a key to a successful business. Struik stated 'our main challenge in this climate and in our industry is to remain visible for potential clients. The challenge for business is to continually communicate your capabilities and experience.'

Struik said 'Events like ASMEX provide the perfect platform to do this'. Struik is looking forward to being part of ASMEX and his presentation is sure to provide some key insights into how his business got to the top of the ladder and how they manage to stay there in this economic climate.

Struik is all about the positives and sees Australian businesses as innovative and creative. Australia’s have been forced to think outside the box which has led to their worldwide reputation. His presentation will be one not to miss.

These speakers are just 3 of the significant line up the conference offers. There are many more with key government officials, global players and key players in the Australian industry.

MaryAnne Edwards AIMEX & Superyacht Australia CEO said 'It is interesting this year where delegates are coming from. Just last week we had registrations from Turkey, Korea, Singapore and Fort Lauderdale.

'I guess it is a result of the global presence Australia has and the fact more and more businesses want to understand the Australian market. Many also see the value of combining the conference with the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.'

Registrations are open and further information can be found at www.superyacht-australia.com or www.aimex.asn.au or by contacting marketing@superyacht-australia.com