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West Marine Recognizes Top Marine Industry Vendors with 2019 VIV Awards

West Marine’s top vendors were selected based on excellence in product, service and growth.

Watsonville, Calif, September 4, 2019 - West Marine recently hosted its 25th annual Very Important Vendor (VIV) Awards recognizing eight vendors for superior partnerships. The VIV Awards celebrate vendors who continually go above and beyond to help West Marine serve their customers throughout the year.

As a leading boating, fishing and sailing retailer, West Marine has always looked to recognize excellence in its partners. West Marine considers several factors when choosing these awards, including consistent excellence in product quality, sales growth, supply chain and sales support.

"West Marine is committed to our mission of outfitting, educating and inspiring boaters. We are able to consistently fulfill that mission thanks to our vendors who pursue excellence right alongside us," said Ron Baime, chief merchandise officer for West Marine. "We work with the best brands and suppliers in the marine industry and are thrilled to continue growing and innovating with them.”

Winners of West Marine 2019 VIV Awards:

  • Vendor of the Year: Garmin
  • Best Sales Growth: Johnson Outdoors
  • Best New Product: JL Audio
  • Best Supply Chain Partner: West Systems
  • Best Vendor Representative: Ed Washburn, Sun Selections
  • Best West Marine Pro Support: Lumitec
  • Best E-Commerce Support: JL Audio
  • Best Store Support: New England Ropes

About West Marine

For more than 50 years, West Marine has been the premier retailer of boating, fishing, sailing and paddling gear. With more than 240 stores located in 38 states and Puerto Rico and an eCommerce website reaching domestic, international and professional customers, West Marine is recognized as a leading resource for cruisers, sailors, anglers and paddlesports enthusiasts. West Marine employees share the same love for the water as our customers and provide helpful advice on the gear and gadgets they need to be safe and have fun. To learn more about West Marine, please visit the West Marine website at westmarine.com

Media Contact

Renee Harvey | rharvey@rlfcommunications.com | 336.553.1732