The State of the North American Recreational Boating Industry
Hosted by NMMA.
Hear from National Marine Manufacturers Association President, Frank Hugelmeyer, as he provides an exclusive update on the state of the North American recreational boating market from wholesale and retail sales trends to the headwinds and opportunities facing the industry heading into 2025. From the outcome of the US presidential election to global regulations and shifting consumer behaviors and expectations around the world, Hugelmeyer will address how the North American market is positioning itself for growth.
Speakers
Robert Newsome is the Chief Administrative Officer and Senior Vice President of Operations for the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), responsible for overall organizational operations, alignment of strategy in support of the recreational marine industry, membership and member engagement, human resources, technology, the Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) program, and product certification (NMMA Certified) programs for boats, yachts, PWC, marine oils and boat trailers.
Robert is the past Chairperson of the National Safe Boating Council, serves on the Board of Directors of the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) and the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA), and on the National Safe Boating Advisory Committee (NBSAC) by appointment of the Secretary of Homeland Security. He has extensive experience in representing the marine industry in standards development and safety issues through numerous committees of ABYC, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
Robert has authored and presented on numerous industry, economic, boating experience and safety topics prevalent to today’s recreational marine industry, and serves as a spokesperson for the Discover Boating program. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Bradley University, and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Notre Dame. Today, he continues his education on operational and technology strategic excellence at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Robert is an avid power boater, fisherman and a life-long sailor on Lake Michigan and the lakes of the Midwest.