April 21, 2026

Last week, in the April 14^th edition of Boating Industry Canada News Week Digest, we lead with the headline, “Boating Ontario Association Announces CEO Transition as Rick Layzell Steps Down”. For many years, Rick Layzell has led the association with energy, dedication and determination. Perhaps most importantly, he has gathered and maintained a Board of Directors and other management resources as well, that I feel confident, will guide the association through what will be a significant transition. There will be big shoes to fill.

First, I applaud that the announcement comes with approximately eight-months or more, of lead-time to find a new leader and to orchestrate a smooth transition. Boating Ontario does a lot for the industry and we want all the programs to continue without interruption.

Layzell has done an admirable job and he has earned the right to step down, but I believe our industry is facing a significant structural shift as the baby-boom generation (those born between 1946 and 1964) are retiring and aging out.

That generation has really driven the rise in cottage country real estate and has been an important customer for new boats and accessories as well. The “Boomers” have lived well and some have planned a multi-generational future in cottage country for their families too.

Generation X who follow the Boomers, faced more challenging economic conditions and as their Boomer parents retire and later pass away, the costs of maintaining those family vacation properties may be difficult or impossible to maintain.

This is a very big topic that we can’t really dig into in this brief editorial column, but there is a generational wave that may see our customers disappear without significant numbers to replace them, or their purchasing power. 

For Boating Ontario, finding a new leader and continuing to have a board that gives important support and guidance, will be key to our future success as we deal with major changes in Canada’s economic make-up.

Andy Adams – Editor