12/06/07 FROM: NATIONAL MARINE MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION 200 E. Randolph Dr., Suite 5100 Chicago, IL 60601-6528 312-946-6200 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Lindsey Johnson ljohnson@nmma.org 312-946-6204 Marine Dealer Trader Joins MATES Newest member offers web services for consumers, dealers and manufacturers CHICAGO, December 6, 2007 - - The Marine Association for Technology Exchange Standards (MATES) recently welcomed Marine Dealer Trader to its membership ranks. “To grow the industry we need to be innovative with fresh marketing approaches beneficial to not only retail customers, but the manufacturers and dealers as well.” says Michael Thayer, Partner and Vice President of Marine Dealer Trader. "As a marine dealer of 21 years, we’ve developed several internet products out of necessity,” One feature of our service allows a manufacturer to place a boat -locating tool on their website. Instead of searching for a dealer, consumers can shop for the exact boat they may be looking for. The second service is the company’s website, marinedealertrader.com. Through this portal, dealers and manufacturers can trade brand-specific products with each other. It's an opportunity for a dealer to have a virtual inventory of many models in stock. It also allows for dealers to list, trade and sell non brand specific parts, used boats or used motors. Marine Dealer Trader also provides electronic registration of new boats and motors for manufacturers. Upon completion of the registration, the unit is automatically removed from inventory. MATES is currently seeking members from throughout the marine continuum—from OEMs and suppliers, to aftermarket distributors, retailers, dealer management systems (DMS) and other value-added service providers. For more information on MATES or the specific benefits of membership, visit firstmates.org or contact executive director John Warnik at (312) 946-6295; jwarnik@nmma.org. National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is the leading association representing the recreational boating industry. NMMA member companies produce more than 80 percent of the boats, engines, trailers, accessories and gear used by boaters in the United States. The association is dedicated to industry growth through programs in public policy, market research and data, product quality assurance and marketing communications.