IBEX 2024 Recap: Celebrating Innovation Amid Industry Challenges
Rounding up some of the highlights from this year's IBEX marine industry conference.
October 14, 2024
The International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) 2024 wrapped up on October 3, bringing together 7,500 marine professionals from over 70 countries. This year’s event showcased significant advancements in technology and product innovation, setting a positive tone for the future of the industry despite economic uncertainties and weather challenges across the Southeast.
Above: The official IBEX logo for the annual marine industry conference.
Event Highlights and New Innovations
A major highlight of IBEX was the Innovation Awards Presentation, where 13 winners and 5 honorable mentions were recognized from over 80 product entries. These awards spotlighted groundbreaking marine products across categories such as electronics, propulsion, and design solutions.
Some notable marine products garnered the most attention. Xantrex introduced Solar Max Glass Panels, bi-facial solar panels designed for durability and efficiency, generating energy even in shaded environments. ASEA Power Systems launched their Isolation Transformer, an advanced system to protect marine electrical setups from shore power irregularities, ensuring smooth and reliable onboard performance. These innovations reflect the growing trend toward sustainable energy and improved vessel systems tailored to modern boating needs.
Expanding Opportunities for Networking and Education
The event layout included 731 exhibitors, with over 100 new participants and a Start-Up Pavilion that featured 12 emerging tech companies, fostering opportunities for innovation and collaboration. A hands-on outdoor demo area provided attendees with the chance to test new products and technologies, solidifying IBEX’s reputation as a prime platform for business development.
The Education Conference added a new Leadership track this year, with seminars and Main Stage events attracting a large audience. Notable sessions covered topics such as boatbuilding trends and future market opportunities, underscoring the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the industry.
Industry Breakfast and Keynote Insights
The sold-out Industry Breakfast, held on October 1, drew more than 900 attendees. NMMA President Frank Hugelmeyer addressed the marine industry's current challenges and opportunities, emphasizing collaboration as a key to success. The keynote speaker, Charlie Cook, founder of the Cook Political Report, offered timely political analysis, resonating with participants navigating market uncertainties.
Engaging the Next Generation and Community Building
Career Day, in partnership with the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), brought 100 students from local technical programs to the event, emphasizing the importance of workforce development. Attendees praised the networking events like the Exhibit Hall Happy Hour and Mid-Show Mixer at The Sail Pavilion, which drew larger crowds than previous years, fostering stronger industry connections.
IBEX 2024 demonstrated the resilience and innovative spirit of the marine industry, with exhibitors reporting strong leads and valuable connections. As Mary Velline, IBEX Show Director, noted, the event provided an essential space for knowledge sharing and professional growth, positioning the industry to navigate challenges with confidence and creativity.
