For the first time in this region, The Presidents of NMMA and MRAA joined forces to outline their plans for the future in the boating industry.

Thom Dammrich – President of National Marine Manufacturers Association – and Phil Keeter – President of Marine Retailers Association of America – both attended the MMTA General Meeting on February 24th. Their topic was “The Future of the Boating Industry.”

Phil introduced Thom and stated how pleased he was that the industry was now uniting for growth. The specific aims were to attain better customer satisfaction; promote boating by the Certification Programs and Boat Shows; protect the boating industry from possible government interference; and develop industry leadership. We should also be proactive on boating access. He also expressed the need to build better relations with Associations such as ours.

Thom explained his plans for the future direction of the NMMA. He hopes to “make things happen”. There are two areas of attention: 1. Uniting the industry for growth, and 2. Re-launching the Grow Boating program.

One idea already attained is to have a single BOATING WEEK 2000 which will replace IMTEC, NATCOM., and MRAA’s annual convention. This week is scheduled to be the week of September 25th in Orlando, Florida. Other details are on the enclosed brochure.

On the GROW BOATING program, Thom said it seemed it was frequently maligned and not properly defined. It’s aims are to 1. Improve the Customer Experience through education and training the industry by means of the Certification process, and 2. Attracting new customer participation through a national public relations campaign. GROW BOATING is not an advertising program – there is no industry consensus to do this at this time.

His future priorities are to promote boating boating year round through Boat Shows and Boating Shows, and improving the Certification Program for both manufacturers and dealers.

Unfortunately, the BOATING WEEK 2000 plan conflicts with the MMTA’s In-the-Water Boat Show starting September in Boston on the 28th. However, it will give members enough time to attend the all-industry sessions starting on the 25th.

Another new idea announced was the Better Boating Opportunity Action Team (BetterBOAT) recently adopted by NMMA and MRAA in cooperation with BoatUS to resolve warranty disputes between boat owners, builders, and dealers. Initially the respective organization will bring the dispute directly to the manufacturer or dealer involved for a decision within 15 days. If not accepted, a BetterBOAT team will be formed with one representative each from BoatUS, NMMA, and MRAA. This team’s recommendation will be made within 15 days.

While non-binding, it should be helpful in resolving the dispute. Dealers should participate in this program.

Phil Keeter reported on the MRAA’s lobbyist in Washington prognosis of the election results. He felt the Democrats would regain the House while the Senate would remain Republican. The Presidential election was up for grabs.