Adhesive tape manufacturer Adchem and grommet manufacturer Rivets Unlimited have joined forces to become one company.
Compact pontoon manufacturer Apex Marine has partnered with WeatherMax 80 from Safety Components for its standard bimini tops, optional enclosures and mooring covers.
Intercoastal Inc., parent company to APEX Inflatable Boats, filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Epoxy supplier MAS Products appointed Composite Systems Integrators (CSI) to represent the company’s product line.
The Miami Corp. is increasing its presence by participating in various trade shows that support the awning and marine fabrication markets this year.
Marine displays manufacturer Nauticomp appointed Wickes Marine to represent the company’s products on the U.S. east coast from Maine through the Carolinas.
The 2010 Rowley Co. catalog includes more than 400 new items for designing, fabricating and installing home décor items.
The TMI Group acquired the assets of PVC manufacturer KoroKlear.
Polyester producer Unifi, headquartered in Greensboro, N.C., has expanded its operations to Central America.
Marine Marketers of America will present “The Great Media Debate: Where to Put Your Ad Dollars Now,” during its annual general members meeting on Feb. 11 at 1:30 p.m. during the Miami International Boat Show.
Marine supplier Ameritex, which recently went bankrupt and was sold to Taylor Made Group, is now facing foreclosure on its manufacturing facility.
Marine distributor Brunswick marine Parts & Accessories has teamed up with Furrion LLC to present a new line of shore power products.
Even though navigation device maker Garmin’s overall revenue was down in the third quarter, its marine segment posted revenue growth of three percent.
Irwin Jacobs has resigned his role as CEO of Genmar Holdings Inc., which will allow him to bid on its assets without conflict of interest.
Jet Dock Systems Inc., which produces drive-on docking systems for boats and personal watercraft, has been awarded summary judgment and an injunction against Versa Dock in a patent infringement case.
Fabric suppliers see the marine market in a severe downturn because of the weakening U.S. and world economy, as well as cautious customer purchasing for the remainder of 2009. Until the economy does rebound, the OEM market segment will be sluggish. Price-conscious marine fabricators will continue to seek less expensive imported fabrics. This continued influx of imports (not just from Asia) will erode market shares for the market leaders. If the weather is warmer and sunnier in 2009, the marine fabric market may still face decreases, but not as much as in 2008.
Marine fabricators see the market slowly coming back if the economy begins to improve in 2009. The current slump in boat sales will change how they market their products and services. There will be more use of the Internet, discounting of prices, increasing advertising budgets, and increasing product features as they relate to sustainability trends. Technology will continue to improve, particularly in stitching and hot and dielectric welding. Fabricators see raw material prices remaining high compared to the past (before 2007). Like fabric manufacturers, they see more fabric being sourced outside of the U.S. They also feel that their industry will continue to have a hard time finding skilled craftspeople for custom work.
From the 2009 State of the Industry Report. Purchase a complete report at the IFAI Bookstore.