Monday, December 13, 2010

METS BOAT SHOW, Amsterdam



In November I attended the METS show in Amsterdam for the first time.

We were exhibiting our products -- the Autotether Wireless Lanyard and The Screamer Wireless Alarm System- in the Sea Tech & Fun Booth. It was the first time our products were shown at a European Show and the response was overwhelmingly positive.

I was surprised how wrong I was that people from countries I think of as having weak economies like Turkey, Egypt, Greece, Slovenia, and Dalmatia might not be interested in spending $200 for a safety device. They were among the most interested in marine safety.

The explanation was simple, their fishing fleets are comprised mainly small, single-handed fishing boats that go out daily in all kinds of weather. Concern for personal safety was tantamount to just about any other equipment and, price didn’t seem to be a deterrent.

The Netherlands is so concerned with boating safety that you are required to wear the PFD and be attached to a means of shutting off the boat motor while underway and going over 20 knots by law. These laws come with a stiff E200 fine and are enforced.

This was a very successful show; I learned a great deal and looking forward to next year.

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