NMDA membership pays for itself. Here’s what you get: benchmarking data you can’t get anywhere else, direct access to the manufacturers you buy from, group discounts, and a voice in Washington when regulations threaten your business.
Data Programs
Good decisions start with good numbers. NMDA runs three data programs to make sure members always know where they stand:
Performance Operating Report — Are you average, or are you leading the pack? This report benchmarks your cost of doing business against other NMDA distributor members, so you can see exactly where you stand and where the real opportunities to improve profitability are hiding.
Sales and A/R Report — A monthly look at distributor sales and accounts receivable across the membership, giving you a real read on how the channel is moving, not just your own corner of it.
Monthly Economic Report — Regular insight into the broader economic conditions shaping the marine industry, so you can plan ahead instead of reacting after the fact.
Networking & Events
NMDA brings distributors and manufacturers together in the room, not just on a call. Two flagship events anchor the year:
Executive Conference — A high-level, closed-door meeting series that puts distributors and manufacturers in the same room for prearranged, one-on-one strategic conversations. No noise, no crowded show floor. Just the meetings that actually move your business forward.
S.T.E.P. Purchasing Conference — NMDA’s purchasing event, giving manufacturers a direct line to introduce new products and programs to the distributor network, and giving distributors a centralized place to buy for the year ahead.
Value-Added Programs
NMDA partners with vendors like Savings for Members to put discounts and exclusive programs directly in your hands. It’s built-in savings on things you’re already paying for.
Legislative Tracking and Lobbying
Regulations change fast, and they can hit your business before you see them coming. NMDA tracks the issues that matter to marine distributors and lobbies Congress on your behalf, so you’re never caught off guard. We do this through active affiliations with:
| NAW National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors |
NMMA National Marine Manufacturers Association |
| MRAA Marine Retailers Association of the Americas |
Dealer Week MRAA’s annual conference and expo |
| AEA Association Education Alliance |
SBLC Small Business Legislative Council |