Boat show observation in Charlotte,Nc

C

chucko

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Jul 12, 2011
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C Dory Year
1997
C Dory Model
22 Cruiser
Hull Identification Number
DOR22769D797
Vessel Name
Sea Angel
I went to the boat show to do some engine comparisons in the 90-115 range yesterday. I was amazed to see their were no Hondas or suzukis to be seen anywhere. The predominant motors in order were Yammies ,Mercs and a few evinrudes. Why manufacturers would not attend this event to Rep their motors is puzzling to me.? Do they really want to be in the market? Something to ponder on the next motor purchase decision.
 
Most boat show exhibits are done by the dealers. Boat shows are incredibly expensive and time consuming, and many dealers don't have the budget right now.

As an example, our modest space at Seattle cost us $8000, and that was before we paid for the staff and truck to move all the engines we had to show. We had the largest display of engines, with four brands in our booth, three of which we had almost entire lines on display.

The Seattle show was down somthing like 20% in number of exhibitors, and I expect that trend to continue.

So don't be down on the local dealers for not showing at the show. I'm sure they are interested in helping you make the best choice in motor for your boat, and they are keeping the expenses down by not being at the show. This should allow them to keep prices reasonable, but may require you do a bit more leg work.

Another thought- If there is no Suzuki or Honda dealer in your area, they may not be the best choice for you, as support would be limited.
 
Another thought to go along with Matt's--is that there are multiple small boat shows--these are to sell boats from local dealers--not from the major manufacturers. The sales of outboards are a minimal part of any sales at a boat show. The types of boats will be limited, to the popular sellers. Many if not all of these boats come with a "factory" motor. The various builders have either "deals" or are part owners of the motor manufactures. For example-Merc is a division of Brunswick, and the Brunswick boats will come with Mercs (Boston Whaler, Trophy, Bayliner, Lund, Lowe, etc.
 
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