Manitou Pontoon Boats Recognized in Multiple Categories at the 2022 Boatbuilders Awards Gala
VALCOURT, QC, November 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ – BRP Inc. (TSX: DOO) (NASDAQ: DOOO) is pleased to announce that Manitou was recognized in a total of three categories during the Boat Builders Awards 2022organized by International Boat Industry (IBI) and Raymarine, at the METSTRADE show in amsterdam. Manitou showed strong at the first Boat Builder Awards and won the Innovative Embedded Design Solution and rising star categories, while earning an honorable mention in the Retail Marketing Initiative Category.
Garrett Koschak, Director of Global Product Strategy, Manitou (CNW Group/BRP Inc.)
The all-new Manitou pontoon boats revolutionize the boating experience with a timeless, modern design, a one-of-a-kind onboard experience and the revolutionary Rotax® S, the world’s first outboard engine with Stealth® technology. ©BRP 2022 (CNW Group/BRP Inc.)
In August, BRP shook up the boating industry with the launch of a Manitou pontoon boats, with the all new Rotax S. The new generation of Manitou was built to rise above in every way and elevate the experience on the water to a whole new level. The result is a truly integrated boat that frees up valuable space for boaters and their families, while pushing design to a breathtaking new height.
“We set out to shake up the industry and break away from traditional pontoon and outboard engine experiences with the launch of the next generation of Manitou“, declares Karim Donner, president, marine group at BRP. “Collectively, BRP’s design and engineering teams have worked to reinvent the boating experience with forward-thinking design and a focus on consumer needs. We are honored to be recognized by industry experts for the efforts and collaboration of our innovative and Rising Star teams, Garrett Koschak, who brought this new experience to the industry. The brand’s marketing team also set new standards with the Manitou launch campaign by creating unique content to engage consumers throughout their journey.”
Winner – Innovative Embedded Design Solution
The new sleek, unique and exclusive MAX Deck at Manitou, has been incorporated into the timeless design of the boat, allowing the transom to better meet consumer needs and maximize usable space. The MAX Deck unlocks 38 square feet of additional functional space aft and is made possible when paired with the all-new Rotax S outboard engine with Stealth technology. With the new design, Manitou paved the way for full MAX Deck integration, removing the visible hoses and wiring seen with a traditional outboard motor. This design creates a stern new experience meaning more comfort and more recreational possibilities only found on the all-new Manitou Cruise and Explore models.
For model year 2023, Manitou introduced the all-new Sport Bimini which is standard on Explore models. The Sport Bimini features a forward angle to complement the new wall design and opens out aft, enhancing the visual appearance and design of the boat. Additionally, the new design helps keep the bimini in place when cruising up to 55 MPH, allowing boaters to benefit from more shade throughout the day for the ultimate onboard experience.
The all-new tri-fold bench, available exclusively on Manitou Explore models, creates three unique seating arrangements in one space, allowing flexibility throughout an entire day on the water. Arrangements include a full-length bench, face-to-face seating or a face-to-face dinette table, providing the functionality of three boats in one. The trifold bench is a true testament to the integration of engineering, forward-thinking design and focus on consumer needs.
Winner – Rising Star: Garrett Koschakhead of global product strategy, Manitou
The rising star The category recognizes individuals aged 35 or younger, working in the maritime industry who have had an impact and influence through their work. “I am humbled and honored to receive this recognition. Although I am recognized for my achievements, being part of the BRP family and having access to their expertise has contributed to my success,” said Garrett Koschakhead of global product strategy, Manitou. Garrett has been fully committed to BRP Marine Group’s mission since he began his career straight out of college 12 years ago. He is a critical member of the new product development team and works closely with the design, engineering and finance teams to ensure the success of the new product development process. Garrett has a deep understanding of the marine industry and competitive landscape, and maintains strong relationships with sales and expansion teams. Manitou dealer network.
Honorable Mention – Retail Marketing Initiative
The Marine Brand Marketing team developed engaging and fresh content to inspire consumers throughout their journey and introduce them to the new boating experience they can enjoy with Manitou. The campaign clearly stands out by raising Manitou pontoon boats through a sleek and modern visual treatment, reaching audiences in unexpected and unconventional ways, and creating ambitious partnerships to bring Manitou in a separate class.
“As we prepared for our launch, we observed that all recreational boat advertisements currently look the same,” said Julie Tourville, Director, Global Marketing, Sea-Doo and Marine Group at BRP. “To emerge from the sea of similarity, with the new creative direction and the intention to elevate Manitou Ambitiously, we developed a comprehensive, 360° multi-channel launch plan that included strong activation and influence campaigns.”
About BRP
We are a global leader in the world of powersports products, propulsion systems and boats built on 80 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer care. Our distinctive and industry-leading product portfolio includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft and pontoons, Can-Am on- and off-road vehicles, Alumacraft and Quintrex boats, Manitou Rotax pontoons and marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts and recreational aircraft. We complement our product lines with a dedicated portfolio of parts, accessories and apparel to fully enhance the riding experience. With annual sales of C$7.6 billion in more than 120 countries, our global workforce includes nearly 20,000 motivated and resourceful people.
Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Can-Am, Rotax, Alumacraft, Manitou, Quintrex and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
SOURCE BRP Inc.
