NEC to host new boat show

Next February, the NEC in Birmingham is to play host to a new boat show from BoatLife Events Ltd.

The show, which calls itself ‘more than a boat show’, says it has a fresh view on marketing and promises to deliver more than a four-day event. 

Taking place 17-20 February 2022 and occupying three halls and over 20,000sqm, the show has space for boats up to 45ft. Showcasing RIBS, powerboats, sailing boats, inland watercraft and watersports, as well as a range of retailers and ancillary companies, the organiser says the show will benefit from exhibiting alongside other popular events, such as the Golf Show, with whom they hope to collaborate.

BoatLife Events says the core three elements of its brand – digital, community and live – will offer clients a year-round approach to marketing and lead generation that will build an audience before, during and after the show.

The new events company is privately owned by Richard Dove, who has over 20 years’ experience in the events industry. The BoatLife Events’ team also includes Daniel Taylor and Hayley Harris, who both previously worked on the Southampton International Boat Show in operations and marketing respectively.

“After months of planning I am over the moon to be announcing BoatLife to the marine industry,” says Dove. “We have a strong interest in the show with expressions of interest for 50 per cent of the space which is incredible. We have such an experienced and creative team running BoatLife and the whole project is developing at a rapid pace.”

With many of the UK’s boat shows located on the south coast, the announcement of the new boat show has been welcomed by marine companies located further inland.

Chris Manners, MD at TBS Boats, comments: “Boat dealers have wanted a boat show in The Midlands for years, and I’m delighted we finally have one on the table. We need to grab the interest that is on our industry at the moment and make the most of it, I can’t wait to take the Sealine range to the Show.”