MaryAnne Edwards

In the second part of the interview MaryAnne Edwards, GMBA Australia and New Zealand, chats to Hillary Buckman about the value of creating quality content, with an emphasis on press releases.

 

Do you have any advice for those wishing to get their press releases published?
Yachting media is bombarded with press releases daily, so they must be well-written, relevant and, of course, newsworthy to run. As for other media sites, the easier it is on our end to turn it around, the better.

 

Of course, we edit to fit our style and, if required, will ask questions to add more detail, but if it’s a topic we think owners and the industry will be interested in, we’ll run it. All press releases must have website links and contact details, and be accompanied by high-quality images.

 

It is surprising how often crucial facts, key contact details and high-resolution images are not included, which makes it harder to run. Finally, businesses need to understand a press release is not advertising. If you’re just promoting your company, it’s unlikely to be published.

 

Should a business engage a public relations (PR) company?
This is an interesting question. The companies that do invest in professional public relations companies generally get more coverage as they ensure press releases are well written, interesting and engaging, plus they make sure it is accompanied by quality images. They also usually have a good media contact base and can target the right audience.

 

Conversely, many PR companies churn out stories that are not newsworthy or relevant. They simply adhere to their promise of meeting their quota, not generating quality stories to improve branding or sales. 

 

Most PR firms have various charging scenarios. It’s important to select one that suits you and not to feel pressured into any ongoing costs you may not be able to sustain financially or in terms of editorial quality. I believe a well-managed marketing strategy, which includes editorial and advertising, keeps your business front of mind.

 

Do businesses need to advertise to get their PR published?
Within Ocean Media’s group of titles, there is no requirement to advertise to get your news published. It’s all about the relevance and newsworthy nature of the piece. If, however, we continue to receive press releases from a company and publish them, either online or in print, we’ll approach that company to see if we can help them develop an advertising strategy that also supports our platforms.

 

Whether through my company or other yachting media, the industry needs to support those working for their benefit to ensure the media in our industry stays strong. It’s also worth noting that, as with most media, if you advertise with us, you also get access to our journalists to assist with writing your copy, which can be invaluable.

 

How should companies evaluate their PR results?
If you’ve gone to the trouble of sending out PR material, you must put as much effort into evaluating the outcomes as creating it. Look where it was published. Look at the timeframe between when you sent it and when it was published. Often, timing is critical. Consider, have you received any feedback? Have you had more interest in the product? Ultimately, is it driving sales enquiries or improving your branding?

 

Do you believe online newsletters are overtaking print?
There is a market for both. Each has its place and, again, it depends on your business strategy and budget as to which will work best for you. Most businesses we deal with like a combination of both throughout the year. In turn, we work out an editorial plan that complements this investment.

 

A high-quality printed magazine has become a luxury item, particularly in our niche market. If you’re trying to promote to the top end of the market, you must make sure your company’s message is on point and the platform you use mirrors the quality and message you’re trying to make.

 

With the ever-increasing use of digital apps for news, when it comes to relaxing, tuning out and enjoying the features you’re reading, there’s no better way than in a high-quality printed format. Time is the most luxurious item money can’t buy.

 

Printing and distribution costs have skyrocketed, leading to the demise of various magazines in various sectors, as well as newspapers and classifieds, so for quick results in a timely manner, online is important.

 

However, research tells us the retention of information is up to 35 percent higher when read in print than online. Interestingly, Forbes has just launched Forbes Australia’s first printed issue – many perceive print as a luxury item. And it still offers greater credibility.

 

Maryanne Edwards, GMBA Australia / New Zealand
Tel: +61 41 291 6036
Email: medwards@gmba.blue

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Disclaimer: Global Marine Business Advisors is a registered legal entity and is a network of independent marine industry advisors. In all articles the opinions expressed are those of the author and does not necessarily reflect those of GMBA.

Maryanne Edwards from Global Marine Business Advisors (GMBA) speaks with Hillary Buckman – Founder, Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief at Ocean Media – about her business, the current market and ideas for those businesses wanting greater exposure.

 

“At the helm of Ocean Media for almost 20 years, Hillary Buckman has driven the growth of Ocean Media and its flagship magazine Ocean. She has established strong relationships with marques, boatbuilders, captains and owners worldwide, and the magazine, which recently celebrated 100 issues, enjoys a connection with audiences and clients that is quite simply unparalleled”

 

Hillary hails from New Zealand and has long been associated with the marine industry. Her experience within the superyacht sector, her knowledge of the industry and her contact base are extensive, and her networking skills are globally renowned.

 

Can you tell us a little about Ocean Media?

Ocean Media launched in 2005 with our flagship magazine Ocean, which still leads our stable of content. Ocean is a premium, world-class yachting publication for Australia, New Zealand and the broader Asia-Pacific region.

 

Our editorial profile and readership are strictly top-tier, reaching a circle of discerning, high-net-worth enthusiasts. Every issue features the latest local and international news and events, such as boat launches, new builds and concept designs, as well as industry developments and profiles. It is supplemented by extensive digital media, including OceanTV.

 

Ocean magazine is complemented by The Great Southern Route Superyacht Cruising Guide (GSR). Available in print and online, it’s regarded as the 21st-century version of a sea captain’s detailed almanac. Whether setting out for the Antipodes from the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, GSR provides cruising advice for yacht owners and captains on the more than 80 stepping-stone destinations along the way.

 

Sails is the digital home and online destination for sailing enthusiasts of all interests and knowledge levels. With a curated selection of the best racing and cruising content for our dedicated worldwide readership, Sails covers the sailing spectrum from sport to lifestyle.

 

Ocean Media opens up a world of possibilities in the luxury yacht market, partnering with the most exclusive brands and extending the lifestyle experience with the Ocean Club, which is renowned for holding much-anticipated events at international yacht shows and the adrenaline-fuelled SailGP.

 

The Ocean Concierge Service rounds out the offering, redefining what it means to have someone take care of life’s details. Whatever way you enjoy the yachting lifestyle, you’ll find something to delight, entertain and inform with Ocean Media.

 

Did COVID affect your business?
At the beginning of the pandemic, businesses slowed down their advertising as no-one knew what the immediate future held. Most of our online news turned to how companies were managing under such quickly changing circumstances, and there was a lot of pressure.

 

However, as time passed, everyone realised that doing nothing was not the answer. Interestingly, in light of restrictions, more and more people discovered the safety of boating and, as a result, people were drawn to the incredible boating lifestyle with family and friends. The interest in boating escalated globally, and not just the high end of the market – every aspect benefited.

 

With some assistance from the government, I was fortunate to maintain my staffing levels, which I greatly appreciated, as did many other businesses in Australia. During lockdowns, we managed the business as a team from our homes – Zoom became my friend! As a company, we emerged from COVID with a clearer focus, a dedicated team, and a strong and supportive client base and readership, which definitely grew over this time.

 

What is your view of boat shows in the post-COVID era?
Having recently returned from the Cannes and Monaco yacht shows after a two-year hiatus, we needed to reconnect with the industry in this way. It is not only where we view all the new yachts, it’s where we learn about the latest technologies, discuss future projects with marques, and source editorial features for the year ahead.

 

While Zoom allowed us to maintain relationships during COVID, being back at the shows reinforced how vital face-to-face contact is. Boat shows are where relationships are established, and real connections are made and thrive.

 

Both shows were very successful, but the industry is becoming more discerning in terms of where they choose to exhibit. With the cost of exhibiting and travel in particular becoming exorbitant, especially from our part of the world, we need to ensure every show or conference is working for us.

 

In addition, with a lot of the larger yard build times now out until 2025/26, brands are far more selective about who they spend time with. Given current order books, they could afford to be even more targeted. I was taken aback at one of the shows by the following comment: “Trying to sell boats into countries like Australia is just too difficult right now given the complexity of compliance, especially when you have easier customers on your doorstep.”

 

What is your view of the industry in Australia and New Zealand at the moment?

Like most boating nations around the world, yacht ownership over the past two years has boomed in Australia and New Zealand. Marinas are full, refit yards are busy, and associated businesses are thriving.

 

COVID brought about rapid change. Some owners with larger yachts, who would usually have kept them overseas, brought them back to Australian waters instead due to travel restrictions.

 

Our industry and yacht ownership are both maturing, and the local infrastructure is growing to meet the demand. A lot of investment from the private sector and government is assisting this growth.

 

The Asia-Pacific superyacht industry is starting to work together to promote the region for private yachts and charters. With exploration cruising also on the rise, this region offers incredible experiences that simply can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Since launching the first edition of the Great Southern Route superyacht guide in 2007, I have seen this exponential growth firsthand.

 

An international publication recently reported that Australia is, for the first time, in the top 10 countries for superyacht ownership in the world. I would suggest this number is even higher than reported. Most Australians who own large superyachts prefer to keep them in Europe and, being internationally flagged, tracing the owners back to Australia can be very difficult. While some owners do bring their boats back to this part of the world, most love the anonymity of the Med and keep smaller vessels locally instead.

 

What is your view of the global market?

I don’t anticipate a major correction to the current market as we saw in 2008, but no-one can be complacent. With interest rates and inflation still on the rise, the yachting industry will start to cool, though we knew it couldn’t keep going the way it has over the past two years.

 

In saying this, many yards will be busy over the next few years delivering their new build order book, as will suppliers and services to the industry. My concern is the increase in the cost of products and services, combined with staff shortages, which is affecting every sector in our industry.

 

One area that is at an all-time high is the refit and repair market. Owners who don’t want to wait for a new build are now looking at the second-hand market and undertaking a refit instead – some quite extensive. In our part of the world, refit yards are seeing massive potential. The maxim, build it and they will come, is definitely paying off.

 

Since I started in this industry nearly 20 years ago, the investment in this area of the market has grown year on year. Australia and New Zealand now offer some of the best refit yards in the world and, with more owners looking further afield for their cruising itinerary, I can only see this market sector getting stronger.

 

We’ve also seen an increase in new owners and charterers discovering the yachting lifestyle – during lockdowns, it was one of the safest ways to holiday with family. With the rise of social media, the interest from mainstream media, including TV programs, as well as influencers within and outside the industry, awareness of the yachting lifestyle is only growing.

 

What are the challenges for media?

It’s now so easy for individuals to start a blog, YouTube channel or website, and this has led to huge interest in our industry from mainstream non-boating people and current owners. Many larger media companies with expensive overheads, such as staff costs, have been slower to gear up for this new digital transformation. You need to be able to monetise each new platform – if it’s only one person, it’s easier to make it work.

 

Also, most people believe they should get all their media for free. Transitioning platforms to a paid system where readers pay is tricky when so many channels push out news for free.

 

At Ocean Media, we have four to five staff working on our news websites. Publishing high-quality stories, either written by us or supplied by PR firms, takes time and money to keep new items flowing daily and ensure our websites are updated. It’s about quality and maintaining the high standard we are known for; it is what our readers rely on.

 

Some companies are so busy with their current order book they don’t believe they need to attend boat shows, networking events and conferences, or undertake any advertising. However, I have noticed that the top-performing companies do a mixture of everything. Often, it’s not about the money you spend – it’s about where and how you spend it. Every business requires a different approach depending on the business strategy.

 

As a leading media company in our industry, we offer tailored solutions and achieve outcomes. My team is the best in our sector. We are as committed to increasing the awareness of your products and services as you are. This is what makes our clients want to return every issue, every week. We have built a strong following with owners and captains, and within the industry.

 

Ocean Media is very supportive of our industry. For 20 years, whenever a new player enters, I’ll sit down with them and chat through what we can do to help them promote their product or service. We always recommend attending boat shows, joining the main associations, and the importance of networking. I would like to see more collaboration, more sharing of ideas and talking through any difficulties the industry or companies might be facing, which is why I established the Captains of Industry.

 

At the recent Monaco Yacht Show, I also spoke to several international yachting journalists and editors about getting a group of us together a few times a year to discuss industry matters and share some of our thoughts on our changing industry, as well as any features we’re working through that might need input.

 

I’ve never worried too much about competition (even though plenty exists). For me, it’s more about working to the highest standard possible, sharing ideas and helping our clients get the best solution for them. This is not always through us, which I am upfront about. It needs to be a win-win solution for everyone. This isn’t always easy, but the only way for the industry to grow and mature is to work together and share ideas.

 

If all the yards currently working on emission-free, new engine technologies and solutions to a cleaner yachting world worked together, we’d get to the finish line in half the time for half the cost. Food for thought.

 

Maryanne Edwards, GMBA Australia / New Zealand
Tel: +61 41 291 6036
Email: medwards@gmba.blue

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Disclaimer: Global Marine Business Advisors and its associated website www.gmba.blue are not registered legal entities. GMBA is a network of independent marine industry advisors. In all articles the opinions expressed are those of the author and does not necessarily reflect those of GMBA

GMBA Consultant Mary Anne Edwards who was also Chair of Judges for the 2022 Australian Marine Industry Awards attended the gala dinner which was held on Wednesday 18^th May at the Southport Yacht Club.  With their state or the arc superyacht marina built by Superior Jetties, the yacht club was an impressive venue for this event. Maryanne also paid tribute to AIMEX CEO, David Good and his team who had organised the evening leaving no detail uncovered including live entertainment provided by sponsors Pantaenius and Aqualuma.  Maryanne stated,  “The capabilities of the marine industry in Australia never fails to impress.  Australia continues to cement its position as a key player in the global marketplace”.

The awards were about recognising and awarding the outstanding achievers across the Australian Export, Superyacht and Commercial sectors. The Commercial Category offered two awards, with the first, “The 2022 Commercial Marine Project / Design or Manufacturer of the Year’ going to Spear Green Design for their impressive work on two new vessels that will service the Isles of Scilly and designing the marine interior for a fleet of 12 new build vessels to service Windfarms in SE Asian and Europe.

‘The 2022 Commercial Marine Service Provider of the Year went to The Yard Brisbane, with the judges impressed by the facility’s ability to support a myriad of commercial clients, enabling them to deliver and maintain their high quality of service to the Australian transportation, logistics and marine industry, both locally in Queensland, and nationally.

The Superyacht Industry Service Provider of the Year Award went to The Boat Works selected by judges for its impressive design, marketing and development over 2021.  Chris Blackwell Echo Yachts described it as “a luxury resort and spa for boats.” The vision of Tony Longhurst and his investment in this dedicated Superyacht facility is making a big contribution to the reputation of the Gold Coast as a superyacht hub.

The Boat Works was also successful in winning ‘The 2022 Superyacht Industry Project/Design or Manufacturer of the Year Award. The outstanding submission detailed a significant project that involved installation of an upgraded stabilizer system on a 30m charter yacht, requiring a complex reinforcement of the vessel’s hull – the second time only that such a project has been undertaken in Australia.

‘The 2022 Australian Exporter of the Year’ award went to Fliteboard and reflects an extraordinary success story which has seen export sales and export revenue double in growth during 2021. Fliteboard was also voted the winner for a second year running of ‘The 2022 Marketing Strategy of the Year’ award. The award reflects Fliteboard’s innovative marketing strategies to promote eFoils globally. Notably, the company held the first-ever ‘Flite Cup’ showcasing the performance side of the innovative product and hosted a community fundraiser that raised $50,000 for two indigenous-led organizations while also making history, being the first-ever eFoil to cross the English Channel.

‘The 2022 Apprentice of the Year Award’ rewards the winner with a return trip to the world’s largest marine equipment trade show, METSTRADE in Amsterdam. This year’s proud recipient was Blake Frazer from Onboard Engineering. Blake started as a marina attendant at the Royal Motor Yacht Club Port Hacking, progressing to work experience at Onboard Engineering which led to an apprenticeship. He is currently a third year Mobile Plant Mechanic. Additionally, Blake works as a casual deckhand on the superyacht Royal X.

The final award of the night, ‘The 2022 Marine Industry Champion’ was presented to Wes Moxey from Riviera. Wes Moxey began his career in the marine industry as an apprentice shipwright for Carrington Slipways in the late 1970s. Wes then joined Riviera in 1982 as a shipwright, just two years after the company was founded. His career quickly progressed, leading him to become CEO of Riviera in 1998. Wes established Riviera’s award-winning apprenticeship program, with Riviera currently training 107 apprentices on-site as the company works to meet global demand for its world-class motor yachts. Over many years, Wes has become a champion of the industry by learning from the best and now he imparts that knowledge freely to benefit the wider industry. Wes’s own two sons are in the industry and are also part of the impressive Riviera Team.

GMBA congratulates all the winners an impressive line-up of Australian skills, expertise and capability.

	Award Winner: Jeremy Spear, Spear Green Design Presenter: Brenton Fischer, Sydney City Marine
	Award Winner: Jeremy Spear, Spear Green Design Presenter: Brenton Fischer, Sydney City Marine
	Award Winner: Mark Phelps, The Yard Brisbane Presenter: Martin Jufors, Volvo Penta
	Award Winner: David Trewern, Fliteboard   Presenter: Ryan Carmichael, The Whiskey Project
	Award Winner: Shane Subichin, The Boat Works Award Presenter: Nav Bajwa, BOQ Business
	Award Winner; Shane Subichin, The Boat Works Presenter: Chris Blackwell, Echo Yachts
	Award Winner; Fliteboard Presenter: Barry Teeling, Mulpha
	Award Winner: Blake Frazer, Onboard Engineering   Presenter; Simon Hislop, TAFE QLD and last year’s ‘Apprentice of The Year’ award-winner Robert Smith, Superior Jetties
	Award Winner: Wes Moxey, Riviera Presenter: Steve Fisher, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard
	All Australian Marine Industry Award Winners

 

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For further information
Maryanne Edwards
Email: medwards@gmba.blue or info@gmba.blue
Mobile:+61412916036
Website: www.gmba.blueN.B. Global Marine Business Advisors and its associated website www.gmba.blue are not registered legal entities. GMBA is a network of independent marine industry advisors.

Celebrating 2 years of operation GMBA have announced their first global meeting to be held 14-17 March 2022 in Palma Mallorca. With 19 Consultants across 18 countries this is highlighted to be a key get together for the group.

The GMBA event is being held at the Real Club Náutico de Palma (RCNP), a club chosen by the yachting edition Boot Magazine as one the 10 best yacht clubs in the world. Since its inception Real Club Nautico Palma has been recognized for its social and sports activities and has been a reference in Spain’s yachting world, as well as the driving force of international sailing events such as the Copa del Rey, the Trofeo SAR Princesa Sofía, PalmaVela or the Trofeo Ciutat de Palma, (the oldest sports competition in the Balearic Islands.) The clubs host more than 30 regattas per year. GMBA will be welcomed by the Club President, Emerico Fuster who stated, “We are excited to be the selected venue for the first GMBA meeting and we look forward to showcasing the wonderful facilities and hospitality that our club is globally renown for. The club looks forward to hosting the group and ensuring their time in Palma is exceptional.”

Oscar Siches, GMBA Spain advised, “This is an important meeting for our group as due to the pandemic we have to date been unable to have face to face meetings.  Given Palma’s location and marine history Palma was proposed for this event, which was accepted unanimously.  We have an exciting programme allowing time for both business and pleasure. The group needs to address and discuss key issues the industry is facing and given our established operation it is important we now start to create some key policies. The commitment and generosity of the Royal Palma Yacht Club, the leading institution in Spain presided over by Emerico Fuster is providing GMBA with an excellent and comfortable place for our meeting.”

Over the 2-day conference the GMBA team will visit Astilleros de Mallorca. Located in the Port of Palma, a short walk from the city centre, Astilleros de Mallorca was one of the first facilities of its kind to provide a full ‘one stop’ full Refit & Repair Superyacht Service Centre in Mediterranean Spain.  More than 200 yachts are refitted or repaired at Astilleros de Mallorca every year, GMBA will be welcomed to the yard by CEO Diego Colon.  Diego Colon commented, “We are very proud of our facility and looking forward to providing a tour of our facilities to the GMBA team.  It is excellent that they choose Palma for their first meeting.”

On the second day of the meeting Anders Kurten, CEO of Baltic Yachts will be addressing the group on the topic of “The future of sustainable superyachting”. This will be followed by a visit to Baltic Yachts the world’s leading carbon yacht builder. Baltic Yachts take an in-house approach to yacht building with all disciplines controlled under one-roof, from design and engineering to woodworking and the latest composite manufacturing techniques. There is a team permanently based in Palma de Mallorca with backup and support from the yard in Finland. Anders said, “The superyacht industry including sailing yachts is experiencing a buoyant market right now both for new builds and refit services. We are also living in exciting times, as new sustainable technologies are widely embraced and sought after by owners and shipyards alike.  Those yards who are technologically positioned to leverage this development will have significant opportunities over the following years. I am looking forward to speaking to the team at GMBA and showing them our facility in Palma.”

Jouko Huju, the inspiration behind GMBA stated, “The foundation for GMBA was laid some 2 years ago and we have come a long way since. It is exciting to finally be able to have a meeting with all the advisors together.  We feel our position is established and it is important that we review the last 2 years and develop our focus for the next 2-5 years.  We now have an excellent line up of experienced industry players and the work we are doing is certainly providing very positive feedback. With travel now back on everyone’s agenda we are looking forward to being present at the key boat shows and events around the globe. It is fantastic that Oscar offered to host this first meeting and the turnout of consultants is impressive given they are coming from far and wide. Meeting face to face and strengthening relationships is important as we move forward and the whole group is excited by this prospect.”

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For further information
Maryanne Edwards
Email: medwards@gmba.blue or info@gmba.blue
Mobile:+61412916036
Website: www.gmba.blue

N.B. Global Marine Business Advisors and its associated website www.gmba.blue are not registered legal entities. GMBA is a network of independent marine industry advisors.

Global Marine Business Advisors is a group of 19 marine industry professionals, located on five continents and eighteen countries.

Each consultant has unique and extensive experience in the recreational marine industry. Due to this extensive knowledge, networks and contact bases, GMBA has attracted various projects for businesses within the industry. Some of these projects have involved several GMBA consultants working together, and other projects have been allocated to individual consultants.  Consultants also attract their own clients working individually and are totally free to do so.  Confidentiality and integrity in doing business are a cornerstone of the group ethos.

The brand and reputation of GMBA has grown quickly and like most new businesses it generally takes a few years to really make a mark.  With 2 years completed and a rocky road for many in the industry since covid, GMBA now has a firm footing in the recreational marine sector.  There are many examples that could be outlined in relation to work undertaken by GMBA but a recent example from a very interesting manufacturer that has been highlighted, was for a company in Finland called Remoran.  They engaged several GMBA consultants to investigate global markets for one of their products. They were particularly focused on two regions. The appropriate global consultants were engaged, and each developed their specific market proposal taking into account the scope of the clients request.  These were individual proposals which were separately forwarded to the client with a uniform price for each consultant.  A timeframe in which to undertake this project was also agreed.  Each consultant conducted their research separately so as not to provide a skewed report to the client.

The reports were delivered to the client within the agreed timeframe and to the agreed budget.  The client was extremely happy with the outcomes defined in the report and has already reviewed parts of their strategy because of this.  They are now looking at the possibility of GMBA undertaking further work on their behalf. The important factor in this approach by GMBA is that the client received a timely, practical, cost-effective proposal, the reports were delivered on time and with clear summaries and outcomes. A follow up Zoom call was undertaken with the consultants and the client to enable a frank discussion to be had regarding the results and to allow the client to question the consultants on various points and gain a more in depth understanding of the reports.

Tarita Lindholm, Remoran commented, ““For us as a smaller company, it was difficult to know where to go for the market research project we wished to undertake.  GMBA was recommended to us and I have to say it was a great recommendation.  The price was competitive, the reports were well written and understandable, the network amongst the group was enviable and we have already changed several aspects of our marketing because of information in the report.  In many respects the report was more extensive than we expected providing excellent value for our investment.  We had obtained a government grant to undertake this research and the government was more than happy with the GMBA group to be involved. Many small businesses like us struggle to find cost effective consultants to assist us with our businesses. “

The GMBA team’s extensive global network and combined level of accrued knowledge, not available elsewhere, have made GMBA a go to consultancy when businesses are looking to expand their business, obtain market overviews, understand best media outlets for their marketing push, evaluate new initiatives, and a push currently appears to be understanding the boat show market and where various companies need to establish a presence. Whether the GMBA projects are assisting boat manufacturers, equipment manufacturers or marina operators/developers, GMBA consultants have ensured quality outcomes in all projects that have been undertaken.

Recent projects consultants have been involved with have involved developing and leading trade missions, identifying distributors for specific products, scoping the market for new initiatives, assisting with the development of marinas, reviewing various aspects of the boat market, preparing articles on industry topics and developing marketing strategies and award applications for various products and businesses.

The initiative for GMBA started in 2019, with a view to harness the collective experience and networks within the recreational marine industry to support industry players looking to expand or develop their businesses whether it be locally or internationally.   To this end GMBA has found their niche and are attracting projects from the global marketplace. GMBA is not a substitute for a trade association GMBA is a commercial consultancy/advisory group.

The team at Global Marine Business Advisors currently reside in the UK, France, Finland, Norway, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, Australia, Dubai, Spain, Russia, Italy, South Africa, Turkey, Poland, Sweden, Croatia and the USA.  GMBA have also recently taken on board a technical consultant to assist with the aspects of projects they are getting that require technical knowledge and assistance.

Most people are so busy working in their business, they struggle to find the time to work on their business.  This is where a consultancy like GMBA can assist and from feedback received it does appear GMBA prices and quality of work meet the current market needs.

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For further information
Maryanne Edwards
Email: medwards@gmba.blue or info@gmba.blue
Mobile:+61412916036
Website: www.gmba.blue

N.B. Global Marine Business Advisors and its associated website www.gmba.blue are not registered legal entities. GMBA is a network of independent marine industry advisors.

The marine industry down under like most global markets continues to do well with high demand and significant business transactions across most sectors with the industry expecting a huge summer season. Both countries also have an ongoing Discover Boating Campaign designed to attract more of the population into the recreational boating market.

It is also very exciting to see a marine industry player, Riviera, as a finalist in the 2021 Australian Export awards showcasing the resilience of the marine industry and its importance to the Australian economy.

Riviera have exported a significant number of vessels to the US recently. Currently around 50 vessels are being built in the Coomera shipyard which employs 900 people. The success of Riviera which has continued during the pandemic is indicative of what has happened in the vessel manufacturing sector in both NZ and Australia.

However, the tentacles of covid have frustrated importers and exporters with border closures, lockdowns, extended lead times, freight costs, limited movement of vessels, reduced manufacturing capacity, pricing of raw materials and staffing. The good news is that with high vaccination rates now achieved in most states of Australia, NSW and Victoria have opened their borders without quarantine allowing fully vaccinated people to move freely between states. Queensland is expected to follow suit on the 17^{th of} December then allowing vessels and crew in these 3 key states to move around freely. Western Australia continues to maintain a strong stance stating they will not open borders until their population over 12 years is 90% vaccinated. The federal government has opened Australian international borders for fully vaccinated residents to come and go which again is a big plus for everyone coming into the Xmas holiday season. As covid rules change daily it is important to check the Australian government website that lists updated international border rules, exemptions, and restrictions. https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/

The NZ border currently remains closed but again the NZ  government is reviewing these decisions regularly so it is important to check .https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/covid-19/border-closures-and-exceptions  Whilst NZ & Australia originally pursued a zero covid strategy both are now strongly focused on vaccination levels.

Businesses continue to work hard to maintain high service levels to their domestic and global customers. Relationships are critical and loyalty to these relationships continues as a high priority.

In both NZ and Australia freight costs have increased. Duthie Lidgard, Catalano Shipping Services NZ, commented, “As an agent we are seeing a minimum of 20% increase across the board. We are seeing many sea freight orders being bumped due to over booking, lack of ships and space. We understand yacht transporters also have a long waiting list for vessel bookings to move yachts around the world.”

In Australia feedback suggests these increases in freight costs are even greater with the same delays applying. Peter Dowdney, Australasian Sales Manager, Ronstan International, commented, “Freight can be a logistics nightmare causing many businesses to increase stockholdings as opposed to the traditional JIT method. Ronstan normally air freighted all orders however due to minimal flights out of Australia and elsewhere we have had to revert to sea freight. This is challenging with delays often of 2-3 weeks with little explanations as to why. This has affected our service levels to customers which is a huge concern for us as service within Ronstan is a high priority.”

Supply chains in many sectors of the industry have been disrupted. Given cash flow and other challenges many manufacturers are requiring payment ahead of time before receipt of orders. Customers in the main appear to be understanding of this and complying. Relationships with suppliers is critical and nurturing long term relationships is important. Trying to source new suppliers and do due diligence on them without being able to travel and meet face to face is again a very challenging exercise. Duthie advised, “NZ is starting to see limited stocks, engine and pump parts, steel, plastics etc, with word from some major brands we could be seeing a 9-month supply delay, advising to order your parts now.”

There continues to be staff shortages across many industries in New Zealand and Australia and this is also felt within the Marine Sector – Welders, Engineering, Boatbuilders, Painters, laminators etc. Superyacht Australia, the Marina Industries Association and the Boating Industry Association in Australia and NZ Marine in New Zealand have developed marine industry employment websites as a membership benefit which is certainly a very timely initiative for the industry in both countries. www.marinejobs.org.au. www.nzmarine.com/jobs/

Tracey Stevenson, Lloyd Stevenson Boat Builders NZ, talked about staffing. “The staffing issues are getting worse as the closed borders continue to mean that we cannot accept applicants from offshore. As all manufacturing businesses are experiencing shortages, this puts more pressure on the ability to retain staff. We are fortunate to have a loyal and stable core team – but the pressure is mounting. Our recent government decision to grant residence visas to work visa holders currently in New Zealand is a good step in the right direction – but a bit too late for some of our workforce who had already decided to head home as they were unable to visit family and had no pathway to bringing family to NZ.”

Suzanne Davies, CEO Marina Industries Association, corroborated this view in relation to staffing. “As the industry is starting to gear up for a busy summer which will be less impacted by restrictions given the increasing vaccination rates, the industry is struggling to secure staff for many roles. It is hoped that the winding back of government payments to individuals translates into a greater number of people seeking work opportunities.”

The refit market in both countries is solid although in Australia with state border closures, vessels moving between states has been challenging. Project delays create challenges for scheduling. Many businesses advise that they are struggling to secure contractors on smaller projects as there are so many larger jobs available where they would rather focus their efforts. Feedback is advising forward planning is critical to lock in contractors.

Tracey also talked about the inability to travel to see customers and attend trade shows. “At this stage, the inability to travel has not had an enormous impact, however, as we move forward, I can see this becoming a major issue. Selling our product offshore involves building relationships. There is a fair amount that can be done remotely but nothing beats meeting in person when negotiating a new project.”

Given the latest changes to border regulations Superyacht Australia was able to have representation at Ft Lauderdale with CEO David Good flying the Australian flag. It is expected there will be a NZ and Australian presence at METS this week. Many companies have international distributors who will represent them but for those who cannot be there it is important that the flag continues to fly for businesses down under.

Peter Dowdney talked about having diversified markets, i.e., offering products to multiple regions and multiple sectors. “Ronstan is well established in both the sailing market and various commercial sectors, and this has always been a valuable strategy. Our traditional sales of 1/3 Asia, 1/3 USA and 1/3 Europe has continued through the pandemic, with sales into China increasing considerably for our commercial sector. One area however that has affected a segment of our business and many others is the cancellation of so many regattas and sailing events.”

Suzanne reinforced this view. “We have again recently seen the cancellation of several yacht races and regattas in Far North Queensland, including the Australian Yachting Championships, due to boarder restrictions with most fleets coming from the southern states. This influences all businesses.”

Suzanne provided an update in relation to marina operators and ancillary services, “Many marina owners and operators are also experiencing very strong demand for permanent vessel storage.  The fortunes aren’t universal however and will depend upon the location and the market that the marina is reliant upon.  While business in NSW and Southeast Queensland is booming, those operators that rely on tourism, particularly those in North Queensland are having very different experiences. Marinas in that part of the world have seen many of the tour operators whose businesses were based at their marinas close, and for those left, many are not yet operational and are not able to pay marina fees.    Additional demand for new vessels, very strong trade in second-hand vessels and the increased usage of boats in the areas where boats can be used, is generating increased demand for the servicing of vessels. While some operators are reporting very strong business conditions, it is certainly far from industry wide. Depending on location, restrictions have hindered access to vessels, meant that certain trades aren’t able to move around freely and many owners unable to deliver their vessels for maintenance. Furthermore, the Covid Safe business practices have added additional cost for business operators particularly around monitoring of compliance and social distancing of workers. “

Whilst there are challenges which businesses & trade associations are working to address, the positives outweigh the negatives. The push now in both NZ & Australia is to get a high percentage of their populations vaccinated as the key to returning to some form of normality. Both countries have major boat shows and conferences scheduled for 2022.

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For further information
Maryanne Edwards
Email: medwards@gmba.blue or info@gmba.blue
Mobile:+61412916036
Website: www.gmba.blue

N.B. Global Marine Business Advisors and its associated website www.gmba.blue are not registered legal entities. GMBA is a network of independent marine industry advisors.