Weekly 5: Outboard shipments up 6.7% through July

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 week on BoatingIndustry.com.

1. Outboard shipments up 6.7% through July

The National Marine Manufacturers Association reports that U.S. outboard engine wholesale shipments were up 6.7 percent year-over-year through July for NMMA’s control group of manufacturers, representing 95 percent of the market. Total retail sales based on warranty card registrations for the same period were up 8%.

2. Lowe Boats achieves 2 million hours without a lost-time accident

Lowe Boats has reached 2 million hours without a single lost time accident, the company reported.

“It’s with great pride that I congratulate our team for this accomplishment,” said Ben Cast, Lowe Boats president. “The safety and well-being of our employees are certainly our highest concerns. Through a shared commitment among the entire Lowe team, we’ve been able to maintain the highest standards of safety and productivity, even as we continue to expand our diverse product line-up.”

3. VIDEO: Thousands displaced by Louisiana flooding

More than 20,000 people have been rescued after massive floods swept across Louisiana and at least four people have been killed, NBC news reported.

More than 1,000 roads have been closed and water levels are expected to continue to rise, local officials said.

4. Zacks gives Marine Products a “Silver” in stock Olympics

Zacks decided to have a little fun with its stock analysis last week, handing out medals for those stocks it ranked as a buy and one industry stock ranked as a silver medal winner:

“In the Boats category the silver goes to Marine Products (MPX), a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The company designs, manufactures and distributes premium-branded Chaparral sterndrive pleasure boats and Robalo outboard offshore fishing boats, and continues to diversify its product line through product innovation and strategic acquisition.”

5. 6 ways to lawfully embrace social recruiting

Checking out a job applicant’s social media profile can be useful in the hiring process, but you also need to be careful. Here are six ways to try to stay within the law.