Jan 23, 2018

The 60^th annual Toronto International Boat Show, North America’s largest indoor boat show, closed its doors on Sunday, January 21, with impressive results.

Marine manufacturers and retailers regard the Toronto Show as the economic flagship for the boating industry in Canada. Demand for exhibitor space at the 2018 show sold out in record time, filling the Enercare Centre with over 550 exhibitors, 1200 boats, and thousands of accessories and services.

Cynthia Hare, Show Manager for the event reports, “Last year’s Show, 2017, was one of our strongest for attendance growth (10% higher than 2016) and product sales. Exhibitors had high expectations coming into this year’s show. We’re continually focused on expanding our strategies that bring buyers and potential future buyers to the show.  Our aggressive marketing, special events and education programs have been instrumental in connecting buying attendees with exhibitors.”

Attendance at the 2018 Show was 77,493, an increase of 1% from the 2017 Show, 77,105. 

Despite high water levels in the spring and mediocre weather for boating across the province, consumer spending throughout the show dominated the conversation amongst exhibit sales staff.

Pete Moreau, Central Marine (dealer for Rinker, Stanley, Worldcat, Godfrey/Hurricane and Jeanneau Power) said, “This was the strongest show we have ever had!”

Dave Mayhew, The Boat Warehouse (dealer for Four Winns, Glastron, Wellcraft, Lowe), reported “We are very pleased with the success we’ve had at the Toronto Show and excited to see our sales getting back to record numbers. The quality of traffic was stronger than in recent years, we have a very positive outlook for 2018.”

Jack Summers of Radioworld expressed, “Toronto Boat Show 2018…The best year yet!  The boost in weekday attendance after 5pm contributed to excellent sales. We are excited for the next 60 years!”

Matt French, Desmasdons Boat Works (dealer for Grady-White, Key West, Rossiter) reported, “The Toronto Boat Show always provides an extremely robust start to our year. This year we continued to see quality customers.”

“The Toronto Boat Show provides a great start to the spring season. It’s an important part of our marketing strategy. This show is a must attend as it sets us up for the entire summer,” Said Phil Hodgson, HB Cycle & Outdoor Center (dealer for BRP).

“We are shocked that after a cold summer our sales are up from last year! Sales have been more consistent throughout the week. Two thumbs up – this is a great show!” exclaimed Donna Rork, Cottage Toys

Dates for the 61^st Toronto International Boat Show are scheduled for January 18 – 27, 2019 at the Enercare Centre.