Cruising the Seas

What better time to enjoy the benefits of being a boat owner than in the summer, when the sun and water look so inviting. Though the waves might seem perfect, boat owners old and new know that without the proper maintenance, they are going to be stranded on the docks rather than out cruising the seas. Whether it be a wood or fiberglass boat, there are always new products promising better results than those from past boating seasons. According to Business Trend Analysts (BTA), Commack, NY, sales of marine paint as a whole will be $250.1 million in 1999, the lowest level since 1990. However, BTA expects the industry to pick up again, projecting by 2007, sales will rise to $317.9 million (see chart, p. 81 of print magazine). According to The Freedonia Group, Cleveland, OH, the yacht and pleasure craft market comprises 10% of the marine coatings industry. With the U.S. recreational boat industry seeing demand increase-the Freedonia Group, sees the shipment of recreational boats rising 7.8% percent each year to 2002-those responsible for coatings for boats could also enjoy an increase in sales. The Freedonia Group projects the demand for recreational boat paint will reac