Boat builders lining up to change model year?

MAPLE GROVE, Minn. – Boat builder Genmar Holdings Inc. has declared its intentions to adhere to an August 1 model year change and will commit not to ship 2005 product prior to that date. In addition, it is urging the industry to follow its lead in a later model year.

In response, the Marine Retailers Association of America has pledged its support for the adoption of a common later model year, and a few other boat builders have jumped on board.

The question remains, however, whether the majority of boat builders will sign on to a common model year. To share your opinion, please visit the Boating Industry home page, www.boatingindustry.com and respond to the online survey in the bottom left corner of the home page.