Dusseldorf, 24 January 2024 – Marking a positive year filled with significant achievements, European Boating Industry convened its General Assembly at boot Düsseldorf. The association proudly welcomed two new full members, the Irish Marine Federation and the Latvian Cruising Association, and one new sustaining member, Brunswick Corporation.

Members of the European Boating Industry (EBI) gathered in person for the inaugural General Assembly of 2024 at boot Düsseldorf. It provided a platform for networking, deliberation on the primary challenges and opportunities for EBI in its mission to bolster the industry, and explore the latest innovations and prospects showcased at boot Düsseldorf.

Several pivotal decisions shaping the future of the association were taken, including the unanimous approval of two new full members and one sustaining member. The Latvian Cruising Association, dedicated to the boating sector in Latvia, and the Irish Marine Federation, representing both commercial and leisure sectors of the marine industry in Ireland, joined as full members. Brunswick Corporation, a global leader with a strong European manufacturing and service footprint in recreational boats, marine engines, and marine parts and accessories, was welcomed as a sustaining member. With these additions, EBI now proudly represents a total of 25 members spanning 19 European countries.

Several activities for the next twelve months were presented at the General Assembly, which will further focus EBI on tackling the key challenges of the industry including advocacy and the sustainable transition. A particular focus will be on the upcoming EU elections in June 2024 and introducing the newly elected Members of the European Parliament to the boating and nautical tourism industry.

Robert Marx commented “As President of EBI, I warmly welcome our new members—the Latvian Cruising Association, the Irish Marine Federation, and Brunswick Corporation. Reflecting on our past year's successes, we're excited about the ambitious plans ahead. Together, we have the power to drive positive change, ensuring a thriving future for the European boating industry."

The next General Assembly of EBI takes place in Barcelona, Spain on 10 and 11 June hosted by its Spanish member, ANEN.

Quotes of new members

Gerry Salmon, President, Irish Marine Federation: “The Irish Marine Federation (IMF) is the national organisation representing both commercial and leisure sectors of the marine industry in Ireland. We are delighted to become a member of the EBI and look forward to working with all its members in 2024.”

Askolds Hermanis, President, Latvian Cruising Association: “This cooperation marks a new chapter in our commitment to advancing recreational boating standards, fostering cross-cultural collaboration, and contributing to the global maritime community. Our objectives align seamlessly with the mission and values of European Boating Industry, and we aim to strengthen our efforts in advocating for effective regulations, particularly in the areas of skipper certification and boat registration.”

Lee Gordon, Vice President Corporate Communications, Public Relations & Public Affairs, Brunswick Corporation: “We are thrilled to be a member of EBI as they do an outstanding job representing the best interests of the marine industry across Europe.  Brunswick has a very large footprint of employees, customers, and manufacturing facilities in EMEA, and we are eager to work closely with the EBI team on issues that are important to all our key stakeholders.”