BLA’s annual Trade Show once again this week proved why it is one of the marine industry’s most anticipated events, attracting customers, suppliers and partners to Brisbane for three days of business, innovation and connection. Hosted at The Star Brisbane, the 2026 event showcased the strength of the marine sector while providing attendees with exclusive access to leading brands, new products and industry expertise from around the globe.
Representing more than 70 industry leading brands within the BLA portfolio, exhibitors showcased the latest innovations across marine electronics, equipment, accessories and boating technology. Attendees were also introduced to several new additions to the BLA family, including Iris, Matro Marine and Oceans Assured, further expanding the company’s extensive product offering.
BLA General Manager Chris Soeters said the event’s greatest strength continues to be its ability to bring together suppliers and customers in a meaningful way.
“Our trade show continues to go from strength to strength. This year, we once again showcased new brands, innovative technologies, and fresh ideas that support and advance the local marine industry. Feedback from our global supplier partners has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the event as not only world-class, but in many respects, best-in-class.
While there is no doubt this has been a challenging year for many marine businesses, the record-breaking support from our customers is a powerful testament to the value of this event and validates our commitment to it in the future”
The trade show featured product demonstrations, educational sessions and networking opportunities designed to help marine retailers and industry operators stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies.
For many attendees, the event’s social and networking program was equally important, culminating in BLA’s annual Gala Evening on Tuesday night.
Hosted by marine industry commentator Steve Morgan, the evening brought together suppliers, customers and industry leaders for an engaging discussion on sustainability and the future of the marine sector.
The panel featured Nathan Nichols, Company Director of Cruise Craft, Andrew Fielding, CEO of the Boating Industry Association (BIA), and Peter Wallbank, Director of August Race Group, who shared insights into how businesses can balance environmental responsibility with commercial success.
BLA Marketing Manager Ben Keen said the conversation resonated strongly with attendees and highlighted the increasing importance of sustainability across the industry.
“Sustainability has never been more important,” Mr Keen said. “Every day in our business, and it’s the same for many others, we’re looking for ways to make sustainability a priority because it’s simply the right thing to do. What was particularly thought-provoking was hearing the panel discuss how adopting sustainability best practice can also deliver tangible business benefits and improve long-term profitability.”
The evening also provided an opportunity to celebrate excellence across the marine industry, with BLA recognising outstanding suppliers and customers through its annual awards program.
BLA ANZP Sales Director Glen Eadie said the awards serve as an important acknowledgment of the dedication and commitment shown by businesses throughout the region.
“The breadth of our customer base and their commitment to our extensive product range is remarkable. That depth of engagement, however, makes the task of selecting award winners exceptionally difficult. This event is ultimately a celebration of all our business partners. We sincerely value their hard work, innovation, and ongoing commitment to building successful businesses and driving the marine industry forward.”
With attendance reaching capacity in 2026, the success of this year’s event reinforces its position as one of the most anticipated fixtures on the marine industry calendar.
BLA has confirmed the Trade Show will return in 2027, and with demand continuing to grow, interested exhibitors and attendees are encouraged to secure their place early.
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