Dozens of companies were recognized this morning for innovation and customer service during the annual IBEX industry breakfast.
In addition, Joe Charles, of Charles Industries, received the Mel Barr award from the National Marine Representatives Association and Boating Industry magazine.
Innovation Award winners were:
Boatbuilding Methods and Materials: Prisma "TA" System from Structural Composites/Compsys Inc. (honorable mention to N2K Builder from Maretron)
Electrical Systems: Mastervolt's lithium-ion battery from (honorable mention to Safety Hub from Blue Sea Systems)
Hardware Fittings: Intelli-Hinge from Taco Metals (honorable mention to RIB Ladder from Armstrong Nautical Products)
Inboard Engines: Ocean-X from Volvo Penta
Mechanical Systems: SSA Series raw water systems monitor from Groco
Environmental Award: Boreal from Morbern
The Mel Barr Award honors an individual who has contributed to the improvement of the marine industry through personal involvement. It was established in 1967 in memory of Barr, an NMRA founder and its first president.
Charles was honored for "constantly giving back to the marine industry community" through his business and philanthropic activities, said Matt Gruhn, editor in chief of Boating Industry magazine, who presented the award.
Click here for a 2008 Soundings Trade Only interview with Charles.
In addition, 70 boat and engine companies were recognized for excellence in customer satisfaction as part of the NMMA's Customer Satisfaction Index program. Recipients achieved and maintained an independently measured standard of excellence of 90 percent or higher in customer satisfaction during the last year.
The award is based on information provided by customers who purchased new boats or engines between April 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009.
Click here for the list of the winners.
IBEX concludes this afternoon at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
- Beth Rosenberg