Dealers Rally at New Cleveland Boat Show Dinner
Published: Saturday, November 19, 2022 12:00 pm
By: Cleveland Boat Show
With all the fanfare of a college prep rally, dealers from throughout northern Ohio gathered for a gala kick-off dinner and space selection night for the new 2023 Progressive Cleveland Boat Show that’s set to premiere on January 12-15.
“Virtually everything will be all-new this year,” Michelle Burke, president of the Lake Erie Marine Trades Association told the group. “While the show will be located at the I-X Center where it’s been since 1986, that complex has been sold and turned into other uses. However, the new ownership, recognizing the local popularity of expositions like our boat show, is right now creating a new dedicated area within the complex where our show will continue to be Ohio’s largest boating and fishing event.”
When Burke called the show “all new” it was more than hype. It will occupy a totally remodeled half-million square feet on the eastern side of the complex. Everything from new walls and lighting to new eastside entrances and expanded public parking are already under construction. Even the name, I-X, may soon disappear for a new mantle.
“The result is nothing will remain the same. The old show layout and design are gone,” said Burke. “Tonight, all exhibitors will select their new locations. Our popular feature attraction areas will be redesigned. And the advantages for all the show visitors will be obvious,” she added.
Among the most noticeable changes will be the convenient location of all major food and beverage services in the center of the exposition. The new east lobby entrance will also feed into the middle area, essentially surrounding show visitors with boats and exhibits all day.
“The enthusiasm shown by all the exhibitors at the kick-off was wonderful,” smiled Burke. “While there is still some exhibit space available, the majority was gobbled up by dealers that will represent more than 80 brands of boats and engines, and we know that will increase before showtime in January.”
Finally, it was also announced that Toyota Tundra has been selected as the official vehicle of the 2023 show. Continuing show updates will be found at www.clevelandboatshow.com.
tags: Boat Show, Cleveland, Lake Erie, New Boat Models
