An Update on Northpoint Canada Activities and Recent Economic Updates
By Chris Cook and Chantal Robin
At the end of 2025, Northpoint Canada was proud to sponsor the Boating Ontario Conference at the stunning Blue Mountain Resort in Collingwood, Ontario. This annual event brings together marine industry leaders, marina and dealership owners, suppliers, innovators, and policymakers from across the province to discuss opportunities, challenges, and emerging trends shaping the future of the marine industry.
EARLY 2026 BOAT SHOWS
The Northpoint Team continues to support the major Canadian marine industry boat shows including Vancouver – January 14-18; Toronto – January 17-25; and the Montreal International Boat Show February 12-15.
ECONOMIC UPDATES
The BoC held its interest rate at 2.25% on December 10, an indication that further rate reductions are unlikely in the short term.
On November 4, 2025, the Canadian Luxury Tax Was Fully Repealed. Budget 2025 officially removed the luxury tax on boats over $250,000, representing a major policy reversal celebrated by NMMA Canada, the Canadian Marine Retailers Association, and industry stakeholders including Northpoint. This repeal is expected to restore sales momentum and protect middle class jobs across boat manufacturing and retail sectors. [nmma.ca], [nmma.ca] [nmma.ca]
Based on findings from the December 5, 2025 report, “NMMA Outlook: Heading Into 2026 With Measured Expectations,” the NMMA’s Q3 2025 Marine Leadership Barometer indicates improving industry stability:
• 40% of marine executives are now positive on 12 month outlook (up from 32% in Q2)
• 60% expect company revenue growth in the next year
• Hiring plans and demand have normalized, but policy risks and tariffs remain top concerns for 53% of leaders.
• This means that dealers can expect steadier conditions but should prepare for consumer hesitancy and regulatory uncertainty. [nmma.org], [publicnow.com]
In addition, a review of the Canadian Consumer Confidence statistics:
• September 2025: -5% (outlook for economy and personal finances remained negative.)
• October 2025: -6% (continued softening; personal outlook improved, economy outlook weakened)
• November 2025: -10% (sharp decline; concerns over personal finances and the broader economy)
Based on these findings, confidence remains fragile, signaling cautious consumer behavior and pressure on discretionary spending heading into 2026. Consumer Confidence Canada: Monthly Update | Ipsos
Despite the mixed signals from various economic reports, Northpoint looks forward to working closely with our customers throughout Canada to help build momentum for a better year ahead! Please let us know how we can help support your efforts.
