2008 Chicago , Miami Strictly Sail Shows Draw Large Crowds...  Shows experience attendance declines, but exhibitors report sales and valuable leads

 CHICAGO, February 27, 2008 - - Despite slight drop-offs in attendance during the 2008 installments of Strictly Sail Chicago and Strictly Sail Miami, exhibitors at both shows report plentiful crowds and eager buyers in their respective markets.

Visitors from throughout the Chicago and Midwest region visited Strictly Sail Chicago, with total attendance of 18,123—reaching close to last year’s gate (18,523) despite industry concerns over a brooding economic downturn. Strictly Sail Miami drew a larger audience, with a total of 22,556 attendees. That figure is down just three percent from 2007, when a total attendance of 23,327 was recorded.

The annual Chicago sail show, held January 31–February 3 at Navy Pier, showcased more than 150 sailboats, hundreds of sailing-specific accessory booths and more than 200 educational seminars, the largest number offered in the show’s history. Strictly Sail Miami likewise featured a variety of new sailboats and sailing gear for people of every ability and every budget. The show took place at Bayside’s Miamarina February 14-18, in conjunction with the 67^th Annual Miami International Boat Show.

“Strictly Sail Chicago and Miami were both tremendous successes from an exhibitor perspective, as a variety of show participants noted a considerable number of leads and strong sales as a result of this years’ events,” says Kevin Murphy , show manager for Strictly Sail Chicago and Strictly Sail Miami. “Positive exhibitor feedback and sales results are encouraging, as the industry looks to the winter boat show season as an economic indicator for participation and sales during the upcoming warmer months.”

Next year’s Strictly Sail Chicago will be held January 29-February 1, 2009, at Navy Pier, while Strictly Sail Miami takes place February 12-16, 2009, at Bayside’s Miamarina. For more information on these two shows, visit StrictlySailChicago.com , StrictlySailMiami.com  or call Sail America at (401) 841-0900.

Sail America is an independent affiliate of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), representing the sailing industry—a powerful group of enthusiastic companies and individuals dedicated to promoting sailing.

Strictly Sail Chicago and Strictly Sail Miami are produced by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the leading association representing the recreational boating industry. NMMA member companies produce more than 80 percent of the boats, engines, trailers, accessories and gear used by boaters in the United States . The association is dedicated to industry growth through programs in public policy, market research and data, product quality assurance and marketing communications.