IBBI selects Fusion as marine stereo supplier, extends Garmin agreement

Garmin International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ:GRMN), announced that Fusion, a Garmin brand providing marine entertainment, has been selected as a supplier of choice for the Independent Boat Builders, Inc. (IBBI), the industry’s largest purchasing cooperative. Beginning Model Year 2020, this agreement will give members direct access to Fusion’s full line of audio entertainment products through 2024. Comprised of a 19-member network of leading boat brands, IBBI members collectively build nearly 25% of all boats sold in the U.S.

“We are extremely honored that IBBI has chosen Fusion to be a stereo supplier of choice,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “IBBI members are some of the most innovative boat builders in the industry, and together with Garmin, Fusion is committed to supplying them with exciting new products and solutions, and first-class service that meet and exceed the needs of their customers.”  

Fusion offers a range of stereos, speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers and audio accessories, designed and engineered to deliver a superior and intuitive audio entertainment in the challenging marine environment. Its flagship head unit – the Apollo RA770 – is the industry’s first touchscreen marine stereo with Apple Airplay and Wi-fi audio distribution.

In addition, Garmin, the parent company to Fusion, was awarded an extension to continue as IBBI’s exclusive marine electronics supplier for the next five years. This agreement grants IBBI members access to Garmin’s extensive product portfolio that includes chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar technology, high-definition radar, autopilots, high-resolution mapping and other products.

“We are excited to expand our strategic relationship with Garmin into the Fusion marine stereo product line,” said Tom Broy, IBBI president. “The Fusion stereo products are top-of-the-line products that can instantly add a sense of quality to any boat. Garmin was just awarded our supplier of the year award, so extending our Garmin contract was an easy decision.”