Weekly 5: Armstrong Marine building $8.4 million plant

The BI Weekly 5 is a collection of tips, news and data affecting the boating industry this week. Be sure to look for the BI Weekly 5 every Tuesday on BoatingIndustry.com.

1. Armstrong Marine building $8.4 million plant

Armstrong Marine, the Washington-based aluminum boat manufacturer, is building a new multi-million dollar plant in North Carolina.

Company officials said the new plant will create 200 jobs in North Carolina and 50 more jobs in Washington. The company builds both recreational and commercial vessels and recently received a $38 million, five-year contract from the U.S. Navy.

2. Busting the myth of the rational buyer

We all like to think we’re making rational decisions, based on solid, logical factors. The truth is, though, science shows we make most decisions emotionally and then justify them with logic after the fact.  It’s an important fact to keep in mind when selling to the average boat buyer – it’s the lifestyle, the family time, etc., in other words.

3. 3 ways to keep up productivity over the holidays

It’s tough to keep everyone focused this time of year. That’s why many businesses in our industry just shut the doors for a week. If you’re still open, here’s some advice from Entrepreneur.com.

4. The 50 coolest small businesses in America

BusinessInsider identified the 50 coolest small businesses in the country this year.  What can you learn from these stand-out companies?

5. 26 ways to make Pinterest work for your business

As a very visual industry, boating lends itself well to Pinterest. Social Media Examiner offers 26 tips for making it work for your business.