NMMA reports 17-percent dollar sales increase
CHICAGO – Wholesale dollar sales of all boats were up 17.0 percent for the first nine months of 2004 compared to prior year numbers, while unit sales were up 5.7 percent, according to the September Monthly Shipment Report released by the National Marine Manufacturers Association today.
NMMA said traditional powerboat segments, (outboard, sterndrive, and inboard boats) were up 18.4 percent in dollars and up 10.6 percent in units shipped through September, compared to the previous year.
Retail sales were also reportedly on the upswing. New powerboat retail sales on a rolling 12-month basis through the third quarter of 2004 were up 4 percent compared to the same period the previous year, NMMA reported.
“These are the best 12-month numbers since the fall of 2000,” said NMMA Director of Market Statistics Jim Petru. “Traditional power boat sales are even more impressive during the same period, moving up 5.8 percent. Wholesale and retail figures through September are pretty good indicators that 2004 will be a positive year for boat sales.”
NMMA said the number of companies participating in this year’s MSR program is 153 (compared to 137 last year). These companies accounted for 79 percent of powerboat sales in 2003. All boat and engine manufacturers are encouraged to contact NMMA to get involved in the 2005 program.
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