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BRIGHT FUTURE FOR MARINE INDUSTRY
The final cold blasts of winter are
losing the fight to the mild breezes of spring. As we go to press
the temperatures are smashing through into positive territory and
there is a definite sweetness in the air. This spring is an especially
sweet time for Canadian power boaters. Not only have we endured
one of the longest and coldest seasons in Canadian history, but
there have been some major announcements that will forever change
the course of power boating. The biggest news, of course,
is Bombardier's formation of a new motor division which will now
control the world-renowned name brands of Evinrude and Johnson.
Congratulations to the new marine team which brokered the deal to
keep alive the brands, and better yet, adds a distinctive Canadian
touch.
Not to
be outshone is the new Genmar Corporation. Well, it's not really
a new company, but with the acquisition of OMC's boat lines it really
is a whole new entity. Cudos to Irwin Jacobs and his management
team who are fully committed to ensuring the many brands familiar
to us all continue to bring enjoyment to Canadian power boaters.
Hot off
the press is the news that Princecraft is becoming part of the Brunswick
family of boats. Brunswick recently told us it acquired both the
Princecraft name and manufacturing operations for an undisclosed
amount. Princecraft, Canada's largest boat manufacturer, makes aluminum
pontoon, deck and fishing boats. It will continue to be based in
Princeville and headed by Marcel J. Dubois, who will stay on as
president.
Together,
these deals put to rest a lot of the fears anticipated by dealers
and consumers. With warranty deals in the works for motors and boats
we can now move full throttle ahead to security in these matters.
Speaking
of bright stars, don't miss PBCs exclusive test on Carver's all
new 570 Voyager. During the "land launch" at the Miami Boat Show,
Senior Tester Doug Dawson and myself were invited to put this new
flagship through its paces once it hit the water. As Canada's leading
power boating magazine, it was an offer we certainly weren't going
to refuse. Less than a week after the show, Doug headed back to
the Sunshine State on yet another tough assignment. Check out his
full review on page 26.
As the
spring launch season comes upon us there are many events and shows
that we will be attending in a location near you. Make sure you
stop by and say hello. (Top)
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