DF Capital champions collaboration and inclusion at Southampton International Boat Show 2025
16 October 2025

Finance provider DF Capital proudly sponsored both Trade Tuesday and Women in Marine at the 2025 Southampton International Boat Show, two flagship events that bring together people and perspectives from across the marine industry.


The marine sector, while dynamic and innovative, continues to face challenges around talent diversity and representation. DF Capital recognises that for the industry to thrive, it must continue to attract and develop a broader range of skills, backgrounds, and experiences. That is why the business is committed to creating spaces, through events like these, that spark collaboration, share ideas, and help shape a more inclusive future for the sector.

The annual Women in Marine Panel and Networking Event drew over 130 attendees, its largest audience yet, uniting a dynamic panel with an engaged crowd for an afternoon of candid discussions. For DF Capital, the event reinforced how critical diversity of thought is to the industry’s evolution. The panel explored key challenges such as building clear career pathways for women, reducing self-doubt, and tackling imposter syndrome. Mentorship and allyship emerged as vital enablers of progression, while sharing real experiences, including setbacks, was seen as essential for building confidence and resilience. The event concluded with a call to action to ensure the marine sector attracts, supports, and retains diverse talent at every level.

DF Capital partners with manufacturers, dealers, and distributors across a sector that remains heavily male-dominated. Sponsoring Women in Marine allows the company to help amplify underrepresented voices, connect people, and promote inclusion, all of which align with its broader commitment to cultivating a progressive and sustainable environment where everyone can thrive.

Trade Tuesday, also sponsored by DF Capital, brought together more than 100 professionals from across the leisure marine sector for a sold-out event focused on collaboration and industry growth. Led by Ryan Manning, DF Capital’s Relationship Development Manager (Marine), the event showcased how sharing different perspectives can drive innovation and resilience across the value chain.

We were proud to once again support Trade Tuesday, an event that brings together such a wide cross-section of the marine industry. What makes Trade Tuesday so valuable is the diversity of perspectives. It creates a space where every voice can be heard, from established names to emerging talent. Events like this showcase how the industry is moving forward, embracing innovation, sustainability, and future skills.

Ryan Manning Relationship Development Manager (Marine) at DF Capital


Across both events, there was a shared understanding that inclusion and collaboration are vital to strengthening the industry’s foundations, helping businesses of all sizes navigate changing customer needs, market dynamics, and sustainability goals.

For DF Capital, the show also reflected broader shifts in the sector, from increased boat usage through rentals and clubs rather than ownership, to marketing aimed at a growing number of female buyers, and evolving promotional strategies in a more competitive landscape.

Commenting on the Southampton International Boat Show, Angela Goulding, DF Capital’s Managing Director of Powersports, said:

The Southampton International Boat Show was another successful event, helped by good September weather. The mood across the show was generally positive, with dealers and boatbuilders reporting signs of improving confidence and spending intent across the marine sector. While macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges remain, a year on from the last SIBS, there are encouraging indications of stronger buyer behaviour.

By championing events like Trade Tuesday and Women in Marine, DF Capital is helping foster the collaboration, inclusion, and diversity of thought that will continue to shape the marine industry’s future.

To find out more, visit dfcapital.bank/lending or email enquiries@dfcapital.bank