BOATING
“We are exceedingly excited to bring new products, new
innovations from the marine industry to this year’s show,”
Allen says. “Continuing the legacy of bringing this community
of marine enthusiasts together to share in the recreational
boating lifestyle is what drives us. Sure, dealers love to sell
boats and make a living, but the true enjoyment for us is seeing
families appreciate in what connects us all — water.”
Miller has high praise for Allen.
“He’s done an excellent job,” Miller says. “He always
makes sure the show is beautiful — their attention to detail
and making sure it’s always well-run so guests feel good.”
And how does it feel to be regularly recognized by the
Southeast Tourism Society as a Top 20 Festival and Event
Award recipient?
“It’s important to us,” Miller says. “We like to put on a
high-quality show that is profitable for our members, and
beneficial to our 130 members, but we also realize that we
serve the community. So, we want to put on an event that the
city is proud to put their name on. We want to make sure that
we put on a top-tier event that wins those type of accolades.”
BIG BUSINESS
Florida boasts some of the largest boat shows in the country
and in Miami’s case, the world. But bigger doesn’t necessarily
mean overwhelming competition for the Stuart show.
“I go to all the shows — Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami
and St. Petersburg,” Miller says. “People like our show;
vendors like our show because it’s a smaller show. Brokers
like our show because you’re able to talk to the customers.
“When people come to the Stuart show, they’re at the
ready-to-buy stage,” Miller adds. “Statistics show that >>
JOE DESALVO
Michele Miller, director of operations for the Marine Industries Association
of the Treasure Coast since 2009, is proud that the Stuart Boat Show has
been a repeat Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Festival and Event recipient.
Port St. Lucie Magazine 25
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