Industry figures report positive sales figures following this year's London Boat Show, while the BMF says the industry has grown over the last 12 months
The UK’s leisure marine sector has grown 1.7% in the last year, according to research by the British Marine Foundation. The news was announced at the 2014 London Boat Show, which played host to 400 exhibitors and 76 launches over nine days, with companies claiming record-breaking sales.
Financial director of Inspiration Marine, Chris Oddie, said: “We have had a lot of interest; people are starting to spend money.” It’s a similar story at Fairline, where head of marketing, Oliver Winbolt, reported: “Sales have been excellent with the final total due to exceed 2013, further extending our forward order book into late 2014.”
Despite this news, only 88,593 people attended the show, 5000 less than in 2013. Peter Gordon, chairman of National Boat Shows, which runs the show, remains confident that the sector growth highlights the industry’s significant contribution to the UK economy.
“Business conducted at the show demonstrates confidence in the market and a turning point for the UK leisure marine industry,” he said.
View our gallery of the best bits of the 2014 London Boat Show.
