Before the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Bob Saxon, President of International Yacht Collection (IYC) described the market as On Fire saying, “A recent spate of industry-wide sales activity gives rise to positive expectations for the upcoming show. The US marketplace and economy steadfastly continue to demonstrate resilience.”
Speaking after the show he suggests, that it was a highly successful show for all. He said, “I had predicted a good Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, but the results went well beyond our expectations. For the first time in recent years, the docks were replete with qualified buyers which could portend the long-awaited shift in affluent consumer buying attitudes.”
Across the board the industry is reporting brisk activity in both the brokerage sales and charter vacation sectors. Saxon said, “I don’t believe this to be an aberration but more the first signs of a positive trend.”
Brokers have reported activity on nearly every central agency listing that was present at the Fort Lauderdale Show. In short, American based customers are ready to go boating!
Saying thank you to his staff Saxon concluded, “A considerable portion of our success at the Boat Show must be attributed to the IYC staff, and especially the captains and crews of the yachts at our display. Their tireless efforts are greatly appreciated.”