11 June 2026

In late May, the global boating industry came together for the annual three-day Congress of ICOMIA and IFBSO, hosted this year by the National Marine Manufacturers Association. The event brought together marine industry associations and boat show organisers from around the world to discuss key challenges, opportunities and developments shaping the future of the sector.

British Marine’s interests were strongly represented throughout, with contributions at both in-person and hybrid sessions from Lesley Robinson, British Marine Executive Director, who also attended in her roles as Treasurer and Board Member of ICOMIA; Sarah Wallbank of August Race and Chair of British Marine South West, who participated in her capacity as Vice Chair for Inclusivity and Diversity; and Ed Tuite, British Marine’s Technical Director, who provided expert input across a broad range of technical matters. Together, they ensured the UK marine industry's interests were effectively represented, and its voice heard throughout key discussions and decision-making.

Meetings, presentations and workshops included topics such as shifting trade dynamics, world economic forecasts, tariffs, sustainability, how to reach a new workforce and the changing expectations of consumers,  alongside specific issues such as potential RCD 111 changes, European restrictions on access to safe anchorages and much more.  

At this time when there is uncertainty affecting many geographical markets, collaboration and shared insight matter more than ever, and as ICOMIA Board members we ensure that our own members' interests in our global marketplace are voiced and addressed with practical solutions at the right international level.

This meeting also provided an opportunity to share new British Marine developments, such as our emerging training academy platform, and this has now sparked potential opportunities for future collaboration to gain economies of scale. It has also allowed us to bring back ideas for new boat show experiences which have been proven to show consumer value in other markets. 

Lesley and Sarah also took the opportunity to visit the British embassy whilst in Washington, meeting with both DFT and DBT high-ranking diplomatic officials and had a constructive meeting around UK export challenges into the USA, and on the financial assistance required to help our new to export/SME businesses take up US trade show opportunities. Our thanks go to the NMMA for assisting in setting this up - it has opened a door and a pathway that we will now pursue. 

The Congress also provided an opportunity to review the emerging three-year strategies for both ICOMIA and IFBSO. We are pleased to report that the key priorities British Marine has championed on behalf of its members have been reflected within these strategic plans. Through our representation on the ICOMIA Board, we will continue to play an active role in ensuring these priorities remain a focus and are translated into meaningful outcomes for the global marine industry.