BOATS: Why is the merger happening now?
Karsten Stahlhut: I would like to answer the question the other way round: why hasn't it taken place so far? There were several reasons for this, which were passed on to me. At the time, only master boatbuilders could become members of the DBSV, which was stipulated in the craft regulations. However, the pure dealers, service companies, charter companies and marinas also wanted to have their interests represented politically, which led to the formation of the VMWD, which until recently was known as the BVWW. The last time there were talks of a merger was in 2000/2001, but at that time each association still had its "own" trade fair with the Hanseboot and boot, which was problematic. Neither the one nor the other restriction still exists, so the timing seems ideal.
Are there any changes for the member companies?
If you look at the current service portfolios of the two associations, there will ultimately be winners on both sides. Whilstd the DBSV brings a great deal of expertise in the boatbuilding sector and the guilds and a wealth of experience, especially at international trade fairs, the strengths of the VMWD lie above all in thehe diversity of all water sports segments, which enables a large and more intensive transfer of knowledge. In addition, the VMWD is traditionally very strongly focussed on political work in Berlin, Bonn and Brussels and is very well networked.
What are the advantages of the merger for the companies involved?
You could easily get the idea that the main aim was to save costs. However, this did not actually play a role in the considerations. The focus was much more on further expanding the services for members on both sides. In future, for example, all members will benefit from free legal advice until a possible trial and will have a permanent advisor for technical issues, which neither the DBSV nor the VMWD previously had. This task was previously carried out on a voluntary basis on both sides, but this will no longer be possible due to the demands of the future. There are too many issues to deal with. It should also be said that the new association should also become much more active in the B2C sector in order to generate enthusiasm for boating in general, as the caravan industry is doing very successfully.
What are the advantages of the merger for end consumers?
First and foremost, we are an industry association, but as described above, after a certain period of integration, we will do more for B2C marketing to get more people interested in water sports. Another major advantage for consumers is that we can provide them with quick and uncomplicated answers to their questions. Where can I find which dealer, who can repair my motor and so on.
What influence does the merger have on the close ties between the former BVWW and Messe Düsseldorf??
Both the trade fair and we as VMWD benefit from the new size and there are already new concepts in the pipeline that can now work better together. At boot in January, we very successfully offered a joint stand in Hall 3 for boats up to 8 metres for the first time. We want to roll out this concept in the sailing sector next year. Smaller shipyards in particular, which have not been represented at boot recently due to the high individual costs, could benefit from this.
Are further collaborations planned, for example with trade fairs or associations?
We all thrive on cooperation and are already actively involved in this with various national and international associations and trade fair companies. However, there are currently no plans for mergers, as is the case with the DBSV and VMWD.
What will happen to the DBSV location in Hamburg?
The colleagues there do a great job and are highly specialised. There is also the proximity to the numerous northern German companies. That's why it will remain a "Hanseatic office"!
