July Brokerage Sales Decline, Average Prices Rise

By John Burnham, YachtWorld editorial director

Brokerage boat sales declined in July, with the volume of sales off by 8 percent and the total value of boats sold off by 1 percent, compared to July 2013. According to reports by YachtWorld member brokerages in SoldBoats.com, 3,287 boats were sold for $297 million whereas a year ago, July sales were 3,569 boats valued at $300 million.

Read the full article here.

Thank You, YBAA U Sponsors & Partners!

Three YBAA University events were held this summer in Annapolis, MD, Providence, RI, and Seabrook, TX, with over 200 brokers and industry leaders participating.

We thank the following companies who served as Sponsors and Partners for these events, providing valuable financial and program support:   

Partners:

Industry Supporters:

Bennett Brothers President Honored in Print

A local Wilmington Women's publication, WILMA Magazine, recently featured Tricia Bennett, President of YBAA member Bennett Brothers Yachts, Inc. in the June 2014 issue. The article titled, "At The Helm," outlines her accomplishments navigating the ups and downs of business leadership on the North Carolina coast, touching on the history of Bennett Brothers and the effect on the local maritime industry. WILMA nicely concludes, "Hurricanes have come and gone. The economic downturn posed a challenge. And a family death hit painfully close to home. Through life's hardships, Tricia Bennett carries on the tradition of getting boats out on the water and giving their owners the chance to set sail."

MNI News reports that the ongoing battle to renew the Export-Import Bank is the "manifestation of a long-simmering debate" within the GOP about the role and involvement of the federal government. The debate also highlights the differences between the "business wing of the party and the more purist free market faction" of the Republican party. 

How to Get the "Wow" Response from Customers

by John Chapin

The e-mail came in at 9:07 p.m. and I responded immediately. The customer response: "Wow! That was quick. Thanks. Trying to get my staff to deliver those "wow" moments myself."

The truth is, these days it's easier than ever to create the "wow" response with customers mostly because customer service, follow-up, and all related business protocol leave so much to be desired. Not only are most companies not delivering "wow" service, most are failing to meet even average expectations. Even though it's easier than ever to get noticed, there are some definite steps to making sure you step up, stand out, and deliver the WOW.