Limited access: Strictly Jersey show takes a different tack
By IBI Magazine
Organisers of the Strictly Jersey boat show said they will once again limit access to qualified boaters for its second year. The show will run April 30-May 2 in Cape May, New Jersey. "We created this last year after some dealers complained that they were spending a lot of money on boat shows but getting very little business," said Mark Allen, show organiser. "We decided to get people in here who actually buy boats." Allen said that 20 dealers and 39 service/equipment providers will take part this year. Last year, attendance was around 3,000 people. "It's not like the 20,000 people you get at the Atlantic City show," he said. "But that's not what we're aiming for. We want serious buyers." Allen decided to require a New Jersey Safe Boating Certificate or Sea Tow ID in order for attendees to prove they are bona fide boaters. Participating dealers are also allowed to invite guests. Strictly Jersey has an advantage over other boat shows, according to Allen, because attendees can see new boats and products without having to fight crowds. "Qualified buyers will even be able to sea-trial boats," he said. "You have to remember. This is a boater's boat show. We're not interested in making income from crowds of people who just want to spend a day near the water." Allen said that last year's show, during the worst downturn decades, resulted in multiple sales. "It's almost like the dealers were able to run their own boat shows," said Allen. "Many dealers sold boats that they weren't able to get rid of earlier in the season. And the tent for suppliers just exploded this year with providers who wanted to get into the show."
(16 April 2010)
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