FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida – THE Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), the world’s largest boat show, owned by the South Florida Marine Industries Association and produced by Information markets, closed its 63rd edition, held October 26-30 in seven locations in Fort Lauderdale, with impressive numbers.
Once again, FLIBS attendance surpassed 100,000, in line with its 2021 numbers, and to date, FLIBS has had a statewide economic impact of $1.79 billion, with more than $800 million in sales generated at the show.
Andrew Doole, President of US Boat Shows, explained why the attendance was so high. “There were a number of factors that came into play, such as more inventory coming back to market, which meant the show had more products to promote. There was a greater emphasis on education at the Broward County Convention Center and working with a plethora of industry influencers to get the word out about what FLIBS has to offer. It was truly a team effort between sales and marketing to attract customers and the operations and finance teams to get the end result.”
Show staples like the Super Yacht Village have remained a must-visit spot for visitors to admire superyachts and often place orders with builders at the show. Doole said Nautical Ventures’ AquaZone, a 40,000-gallon freshwater pool where in-water demonstrations take place, has been another hit with visitors, giving them a first-hand look at the action.
Food and beverage options at FLIBS were top-of-the-line across more than 200 concessions and satellite bars, increasing the number of food and beverage outlets and reducing wait times in lines. The proof of the pudding, who catered the Windward VIP Club, provided colorful and fresh meals for attendees, including tuna poke, Boa buns with Korean fried tofu, and smoked pork belly with root beer soda glaze, among others. They also offered mixology offerings and white glove service.
““All of our food is made in-house,” said Adam Noyes, president of Proof of the Pudding. “It’s the most challenging way to prepare food in a non-traditional environment, but it’s the right way, and the flavors and freshness are noticeable to our customers.”
Fortunately for FLIBS, Hurricane Ian did not directly impact the show, but the FLIBS team took advantage of the show and worked with industry partners to raise funds to help those affected by Hurricane Ian. “Our thoughts, prayers and support are with our family, friends and customers on the west coast of Florida. Our support of America’s boat shows will continue until they are back on their feet,” Doole said.
The 2023 edition of FLIBS will be held from October 25 to 29, and ideas are already being formulated. “We want to build on education, continue to evolve our sustainability plan, work with other industry leaders to have a broader impact and, of course, utilize the latest technologies that are evolving month by month in our industry,” Doole said.
Contact Andrew Doole at (203) 856-2408 or [email protected]; Adam Noyes at (404) 892-2359 or [email protected]
