Industry segments continue to expand - MarineBusinessWorld North America newsletter
by Peter Rendle 14 May 03:00 NZST
Lyman-Morse expands with creation of new advanced manufacturing campus © Lyman-Morse Boatbuilding
Lyman-Morse has begun construction of a new 15,000-square-foot facility to support large-scale composite fabrication and assembly, marking a significant expansion of the company's manufacturing facilities in Thomaston, Maine.
The new building will be the third facility on the campus and will hold the company's Advanced Composites Center. It joins the Workboats division, and Technologies building, which houses the company's CNC and metal additive department.
BoatClass, a leader in certified on-water boater training and a business within Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), announced its expansion to more than 40 locations across North America, deepening its continued partnership with Freedom Boat Club and broadening access to world-class boating education.
"At Brunswick, safety is at the heart of everything we do, and BoatClass is one of the most powerful ways we bring that commitment to life," said Rob Schuldt, who leads the program. "Reaching more than 40 locations is a meaningful milestone, one that reflects the demand we're seeing from boaters who want increased guidance before they get behind the helm. BoatClass gives customers the knowledge and confidence to enjoy the water safely."
On Thursday, NMMA testified before the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), and several other federal agencies, in response to its Section 301 investigation into structural excess capacity and production in manufacturing sectors. NMMA focused on the importance of providing businesses with certainty between key trading partners and the industry's global supply chain.
MasterCraft (NASDAQ: MCFT), a best-selling towboat brand, has announced an expansion of its partnership with Northwest Boat Sports, a recognized Top Servicing MasterCraft dealership, to strengthen its presence in the Central Oregon market. This expansion introduces the iconic MasterCraft brand to Bend and the surrounding communities of Redmond and Prineville, enhancing access to premium towboat performance and elevating the region's on-water experiences.
At a time when many manufacturers are re-evaluating global supply chains, Dock Blocks of North America is demonstrating that domestic production and international growth can go hand in hand. The North Charleston-based manufacturer of patented modular floating dock systems has transitioned to 100% U.S.-based production while expanding exports to more than ten countries — an approach that recently earned the company the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2026 Small Business Exporter of the Year award for South Carolina.
Mastervolt, a global leader in innovative high-performance power solutions, announced the latest addition to its Mac Plus range of power conversion solutions: waterproof 48V DC-DC chargers. These cutting-edge models, which provide a quick, safe, and consistent charge for both service and starter batteries, are designed for installation in unenclosed environments, ensuring reliable performance even when exposed to the elements.
Volvo Penta has revealed details of a new D13 IPS Hybrid yacht propulsion system it aims to bring to market later in 2026. The fully integrated hybrid-electric platform combines superior onboard comfort with simplified ownership, installation and design. Built on the company's proven IPS technology, the new system represents a major step forward in delivering a complete helm-to-propeller solution.
LOOKOUT, an AI pioneer in marine safety, announced that it has welcomed experienced industry professional Kate MacKay O'Brien as its Chief Marketing Officer. MacKay O'Brien brings with her over 18 years of marketing leadership across Fortune 500 companies and high-growth marine technology startups. As part of her marine industry experiences, she served as CMO of Siren Marine (Yamaha).
More marine industry news at www.marinebusinessworld.com/NorthAmerica
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media