20 February 2024

by British Marine

In its third consecutive year, British Marine is delighted to report that the designated marine exhibit at the sell-out Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show, has once again proved to be a resounding success, creating new opportunities for marine businesses.

The show, which is based at the NEC in Birmingham, welcomes over 100,000 visitors each year, and offers a unique cross-selling opportunity for marine businesses, providing the perfect backdrop to showcase entry level watersports experiences that are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

“There is a real synergy between outdoor living and watersports and with everything from kayaks, canoes and paddleboards to inflatable boats and even a houseboat on display to captivate the imagination of the visitors, I’m sure many were able to find an on-water activity to suit them”, explained Lesley Robinson, CEO, British Marine. 

Commenting on the show, exhibitors in the marine exhibit said:

“The footfall at this show is phenomenal.  We got lots of inspirational purchases, people who weren’t thinking about a boat, but then they see them at the show and think it is a great addition for their outdoor activities.  Last year we had lots of interest in our inflatables, whereas this year focus has really shifted to our RIBS, in particular the Vantage 390 has proved very popular, offering exceptional value for money and an easy to trailer boat.” Stephen Blake, Sales Director, Excel-Leisure

“It’s great to be back at the show after a long time away and we’ve been thoroughly impressed.  Footfall is amazing, we’ve had lots of interest and loads of enquiries, a nice blend of retail and trade.  It provides us with a great opportunity to speak to both the trade as well as consumers, all in one place.  We’ve been showing a range of products including our stunning houseboat, electric river cruiser, sea scooter, jet skies and more; all the toys perfect for the outdoor adventurer.” Richard Bates, MD, Bates Wharf

“Another really successful show for us, lots of lovely new customers.  This is a great show as the audience works really well with our product and it is a very popular show.  We had lots of interest in our kayaks, which are the perfect accompaniment to van and caravan life.  We are looking forward to coming again next year.” Jordan Belcher, Managing partner, Sandbanks Style

“We spoke to lots of people about our smaller, superlight weight inflatable boats, that are great for caravans and camping. There was a great deal of interest in our family package as well as people already into kayaking and paddleboarding looking for something new, like a small compact boat to add to their adventures. Everyone was really happy and very interested in talking about the products we had to offer.” Nicola Middleton-Groom, MD, Boatworld

“Great show as ever. It’s a very well marketed show which attracts large numbers of people all looking for new things to do and try.” Becky Hunter, Company Director, RIBER

The success of the marine exhibit at the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show highlights the growing interest in watersports and the outdoor lifestyle. “To be able to help facilitate marine businesses in exhibiting at this incredibly popular show is something we see as invaluable, and we are delighted that a number of the exhibitors have already expressed an interest in returning again next year. We look forward to continuing to build the relationship between marine businesses and outdoor enthusiasts at the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show”, Lesley concluded.

To find out more about British Marine and details on how you can become a member visit www.britishmarine.co.uk