Henderson, NV – March 11, 2020 – With concerns about the spread of Coronavirus, consumers look for alternate means of entertainment and recreation. Per Oxford Economics, “Over 40% of consumer spending is linked to ‘social situations’ and (some are) at risk from people avoiding crowds.” One alternative to crowded concerts or airports is outdoor recreation, and boating has piqued the interest of many. This new behavior has introduced new consumers to boating, and the industry is growing.
One regional boat dealer report that record sales in February with an increase of 50% in gross receipts over last year. Boulder Boats with locations in Arizona, Nevada, and California claims New Boat sales up 34% year over year, used boat sales up 58%, and February
2020 gross receipts for the dealer group is up more than 50% for the same period last year.
“Spending time with your family on a boat away from the crowds and cell phones is always a good investment,” says Stuart Litjens, owner of Boulder Boats. “Boating is one of the few activities a family can do together that is fun for all regardless of age or physical ability.
Kids are off their phones, and time on the water brings families together again,” he continues.
It is business as usual for the boat dealer as they ramp up for the boating season with this weekend’s scheduled boat shows at Central Valley Sportsman Expo in Bakersfield, California, International Sportsman’s Expo in Scottsdale, Arizona, and next weekend’s Lake Las
Vegas Demo Day at the Westin Lake Las Vegas in Henderson, Nevada.
“Now, with interest rates cut, lake levels up, and fuel prices dropping, it is a great time to introduce new people to the boating lifestyle we are so passionate about,” says Kristina Litjens.
