The Minneapolis Boat Show Sailed to Success with Increased Attendance

MINNEAPOLIS--Jan. 3, 20061, 2006--The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), producers of the Minneapolis Boat Show, today announced that the 2006 Minneapolis Boat Show saw an increase in attendance of 29 percent over last year and an increase of 22 percent over the three year average. Total attendance for the show, which was held at the Minneapolis Convention Center from January 18 - 22, was 45,042.

"Minnesotans love summer, they love their lakes, and they love virtually every type of water recreation," said Jennifer Thompson, Minneapolis Boat Show manager. "We're thrilled that this love of the outdoors--and our good weather throughout the Show--translated to a successful Show."

Thompson added that the Show's decision to reduce its admission prices and for the first time provide children 12 and under free admission helped boost overall attendance. "We saw a lot of families at this year's Show, and I attribute much of that to our reduced admission costs. Boating is a way for families to spend quality time together, so it was great to see families spending quality time together at the Show browsing for and buying the family boat, too."

Joe Meuller, owner of Minnesota Inboard Water Sports, was delighted not only with foot traffic at the Show but also with sales at his booth. "We tied a Malibu record for single day sales at a boat show on Saturday. It was a great day and a great show all the way around."

The 2007 Minneapolis Boat Show is scheduled for January 17 - 21, 2007 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. For more information, visit www.MinneapolisBoatShow.com.

The Minneapolis Boat Show is produced by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the world's largest producer of boat shows. NMMA is the leading association representing the $33 billion-per-year recreational boating industry. NMMA member companies produce more than 80 percent of the boats, engines, trailers, accessories and gear used by boaters and anglers in the U.S. For more information, visit www.NMMA.org.