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MDCE names marketing partner
September 1st, 2013
Boston-based Lighthouse Media Solutions has been named the official marketing partner of the Marine Dealer Conference & Expo set for Nov. 17-20 in Orlando, Fla. The firm will create and produce all digital advertising and marketing components for the annual dealer conference. Additionally, Lighthouse Media Solutions will use its expertise in digital video to create […]
Shop talk with Paul’s Custom Canvas
September 1st, 2013
How did your shop get started? We started as a one-man operation out of Paul Charpentier’s basement. After one year, Paul was able to move into a smaller building. We moved into our current building in 1999. What is your product focus? Our main focus is marine canvas and upholstery. What unique design elements are […]
On-site repair work on the rise
September 1st, 2013
When John Kissel of Kissel Boat Cover, North Olmsted, Ohio, steps onto a marina to do on-site boat cover work, he does so quietly. “I keep a low profile,” Kissel says. “When boat owners see me there, I’m inundated with work.” An improving economy and a taste for convenience are driving on-site and mobile boat […]
Knowing your customers helps spur sales and return business
September 1st, 2013
A customer is standing in front of you. Maybe she has a question. Or a complaint. Or maybe she’s thinking about a purchase, and wants to discuss a product issue. What do you say to best serve the customer, and bring about a win-win resolution of the conversation? Sounds like a simple question. But the […]
Shop tips to increase efficiency and reduce stress
September 1st, 2013
I would like to share some tips Trevor and I have found useful in our shop in order to work more efficiently and reduce unnecessary stress. All of our systems have evolved from one principle: Don’t reinvent the wheel! Enough thought and planning goes into each custom job that you need to keep the number […]
Enclosure fabrication details
September 1st, 2013
At Hood Canvas, we have a unique method of fabrication that we teach to our students. Many shops around the world are now using our specialized large binder in their shops on a daily basis. This article will provide additional details into the way we reduce the time necessary to produce quality enclosures using our […]
Connecticut cuts luxury tax on boats
September 1st, 2013
Connecticut lawmakers have repealed the .65 percent luxury tax on boats costing more than $100,000, which was imposed in 2011. The measure is one of several “major wins” for the state’s marine industry that were accomplished through the efforts of the Connecticut Marine Trades Association, NMMA and others. Another measure allows boats to remain in […]
Marina institute to visit Florida
September 1st, 2013
The International Marina Institute (IMI), a training subsidiary of the Association of Marina Industries (AMI), will visit nine facilities during its seventh annual Southeast Florida Marina and Boatyard Study Tour Oct. 29–30. The tour will stop at Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Riviera Beach and West Palm Beach. The tour is a two-day mobile training course […]
Larson adds 27 dealers
September 1st, 2013
The Larson Boat Group of Little Falls, Minn., has announced the addition of 27 new dealers to its network of Larson, Triumph and Striper boats for the 2013 model year. “We recognize that dealers today have so many choices,” says Mike O’Connell, executive vice president & COO of Larson Boat Group. “We have to work […]
New report focuses on marine industry’s ‘survival strategies’
September 1st, 2013
New York City-based global law firm White & Case LLP has released “Restructuring & Beyond: The marine industry’s routes to safety.” The report focuses on survival strategies for those affected by the industry’s downturn as well as emerging opportunities for companies, banks and investors. The report examines strategic and practical measures companies under threat might […]