How Marine Industry Brands Can Maximise Boat Show Season: Marketing Tips That Drive Sales & Retention
Boat shows are more than just a showcase of vessels—they're prime real estate for marine businesses to capture attention, generate leads, and build brand loyalty. Whether you're a dealer, manufacturer, or service provider, how you show up matters just as much as what you bring. Here’s how to leverage boat show season from a marketing and branding perspective:
1. Get the Basics Right: Digital Ads & Presence
Start your show marketing well before bump-in day. Use geo-targeted Facebook and Google ads in the lead-up to the event to create anticipation. Showcase the boats, products, or services you'll have on display, and highlight any show-only offers.
Pro tip: Use video content from previous shows, behind-the-scenes rigging, or interviews with staff to humanise your brand and stand out in a sea of similar offerings.
2. Print Still Has Power
Yes, people still love something to hold. Have clean, professionally branded flyers, brochures, and showbags that highlight key models, price points, or product features. Don’t overload your handouts—your goal is clarity and brand recall.
Include a QR code that links to a lead form, booking calendar, or instant discount for post-show services.
3. Capture More Than Just Sales
Don’t just focus on closing sales at the stand—capture leads. Use a digital form, iPad, or SMS entry system with a simple incentive (e.g. win a service voucher or a branded cooler bag). People are more likely to leave details when there’s something in it for them.
Goal: Build a post-show database for nurturing.
4. Retention Starts the Moment They Leave Your Stand
What happens after the show is where many businesses drop the ball. Have an email sequence ready to go—thank them for visiting, recap your offerings, and provide an exclusive limited-time incentive.
Think: “Thanks for stopping by! Here's 10% off any service booked within 7 days.”
Bonus points for personalised follow-up calls or SMS to hot leads within 48 hours of the show.
5. Leverage Your Show Investment for Weeks After
Use content captured at the show (photos, testimonials, video walk-throughs) to build momentum on socials. Even better, turn that material into blog posts, ad campaigns, or reels that showcase your expertise and social proof.
This downloadable checklist is your step-by-step guide to planning a successful boat show presence—whether you're a boat dealer, marine service provider, or equipment brand. It covers everything you need to attract attention, capture leads, and convert interest into long-term sales before, during, and after the show.
What’s Inside:
Pre-show marketing tasks (ads, promo, print)
At-show essentials (stand setup, lead capture, signage)
Post-show strategy (follow-up, content, customer retention)
Pro tips & reminders for maximum ROI
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