The news across the whole industry this week - MarineBusinessWorld North America newsletter
by Peter Rendle 11 Mar 12:00 EST
Outdoor recreation economy increases to record $1.3 trillion impact in 2024 © American Sportfishing Association
This week, the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released new data highlighting the economic impact of outdoor recreation in 2024.
According to the report, the outdoor recreation industry generated $1.3 trillion, which marks an increase from 2023 and represents the largest outdoor recreation economy in history. The data reflects continued growth across the sector and underscores the important role outdoor recreation plays in supporting local economies and communities nationwide.
The Discover Boating Atlantic City Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive, capped off winter boat show season on March 1, attracting nearly 32,000 attendees to the Atlantic City Convention Center. Mirroring sales trends across winter boat shows, several exhibitors reported stronger YOY sales compared to 2025, while others reported more moderate demand. Aaron Krenzer with Chaparral and Robalo Boats said, "The Atlantic City Boat Show did not disappoint this year. Chaparral and Robalo boats saw strong sales throughout the event. Our booth was busy, and it was one of the most successful sales events of our season."
Brunswick (NYSE: BC) announced the appointment of Brad Zoelle as President of Boston Whaler. Zoelle, who most recently served as General Manager of Mercury Marine APAC, succeeds Lenn Scholz, who is pursuing new opportunities outside the Company.
MarineMax, one of the world's largest boat and yacht retailers is proud to announce the promotions of James Corts and Scott Roberton to Vice President of Yachts. Since the inception of MarineMax's Chairman's Circle program 14 years ago, both Corts and Roberton have earned Chairman's Circle honors every year. Over the past decade, Roberton has generated more than $424 million in sales, while Corts has achieved more than $362 million, underscoring the significant impact each has had on MarineMax's continued growth.
Lund Boats announced a new partnership with the Minnesota Vikings, uniting two iconic brands that have been trusted and celebrated across Minnesota for generations. The collaboration strengthens Lund's presence in its home market while aligning the brand with one of the most recognized sports franchises in the Upper Midwest.
Leading South Florida yacht sales and brokerage firm Yachting Experts has announced that Italian shipyard Canados has appointed it U.S. distributor of its Gladiator line of high-performance luxury yachts from 42 to 96 feet. Following the successful debut of this new strategic partnership at the Miami International Boat Show, Yachting Experts will be showcasing the Gladiator 431 and 493 at the Palm Beach International Boat Show, on March 25-29.
The National Women's Sailing Association and Southern California Yachting Association have collaborated to bring the Women's Sailing Conference to Long Beach, California. Both organizations are delighted to return to Southern California, where the founder of this women's sailing convention model, Gail Hine, conducted her conventions for over three decades. The historic Long Beach Yacht Club will be the primary venue for the conference from March 20-22.
Lastly but not least, Burger Boat Company announced with deep sadness the passing of longtime Naval Architect Don O'Keeffe, whose influence on the company's engineering excellence and yacht design legacy spanned decades. O'Keefe passed away at his home in Wisconsin this week at the age of 90. He was widely respected for his exceptional technical expertise, quiet leadership, and unwavering commitment to sound naval architecture. His work helped shape many of Burger's most enduring and admired yachts, and his influence will continue to be felt across the fleet for generations to come. Our condolences go out to all his family and friends.
More industry news at www.marinebusinessworld.com/NorthAmerica updated daily.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media