Contents

News

General

Consolidation, driven by the call for more coordination and integration in the marketplace, is becoming a stepping stone across all segments of the marine industry.

Boats are not just for baby boomers.

As more consumers embrace the green movement, marine companies are offering products that meet boaters' needs to help the Earth's environment.

A class-action lawsuit against Caterpillar over allegations that some of its engines contain defective aftercoolers moves forward.

While an annual survey showed a 5 percent decline in sailboat production, the numbers also show some success stories.

Manufacturing

Staying ahead of the curve with aggressive product development and savvy investments helped Taylor Made Group evolve from a custom canvas shop into a thriving global entity.

Marinas

Multiple divisions under one company means one-stop shopping and good customer service for consumers.

Marinas in New Jersey support a new bill that would curtail mandatory unlimited 24-hour access.

Financial

Analysts reacted to West Marine's weak fourth-quarter and year-end financial results by maintaining a "hold" rating on the boating retailer's stock.

Forum

Opinion — Donald Parkhurst says floorplan lenders have shown patience through the toughest of times for dealers.

Marketing — Wanda Kenton Smith says the indsutry should inspire passion in boat owners to keep them loyal to their brands.

Management — Jerald Robinson maps out a potential plan for companies to ride out the economic storm.

Advertiser Index

Trade Only - May 2008 Index