NMMA Award

The FloatStep® Dock Ladder is honored at the 7th annual Marine Aftermarket Accessories Trade Show (MAATS) in Las Vegas.

LAS VEGAS, July 20, 2007 – – Six marine aftermarket products were honored last night for innovative achievement by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Writers International (BWI) at the 7th annual Marine Aftermarket Accessories Trade Show (MAATS) in Las Vegas. The Environmental Award, honoring the most environmentally-friendly product entered in the awards program, was also presented. The seven winning companies received their awards during the MAATS Awards Reception, held Thursday, July 19 at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel.

The Innovation Awards, organized by NMMA and judged by BWI, recognize those products that best meet the following criteria: Innovative distinction from other products currently being manufactured; benefit to the marine industry and/or consumer; practicality; cost-effectiveness; and availability to the consumer within 60 days of the show’s conclusion. A total of 50 new products were entered in eight categories for this year’s MAATS awards program.

“When the judges consider entries, we sometimes see products that feature incremental additions or improvements,” says Jan Mundy, Innovation Awards chair and editor of DIY Boat Owner magazine. “According to the definition of ‘innovation’ as it relates to these awards, a new product must be substantially different, not just an incremental change to an existing product. The key challenge for judges this year was to select products that met this criterion.”

The FloatStep® Dock Ladder from FloatStep® is this year’s winner in the Deck Equipment category. Designed by two former dock builders, this ladder rises and falls with water levels, allowing water access at all times, regardless of tidal or water level conditions. When not in use, a bottom-mounted float holds the ladder above water, which prevents marine growth and electrolysis. The ladder also easily removes for storage or storm protection.

For more information on FloatStep dock ladders and the NMMA Award, visit www.floatstep.com.

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