British Marine members are gearing up to showcase the very best of the UK’s marine industry at Metstrade 2026, the world’s largest trade exhibition for marine equipment, taking place in Amsterdam from 17–19 November.
This year, 39 British Marine member companies will exhibit across two prominent locations, with 32 businesses in the British Pavilion in Hall 3 and a further seven in the Superyacht UK Pavilion in Hall 8, within the Superyacht Zone. (Other British Marine members can also be found exhibiting across the show.) Together, they will put British innovation, craftsmanship and technical expertise firmly in the international spotlight, showcasing the products, services and technologies that continue to drive the global marine industry forward.
“Metstrade is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the strength, diversity and ambition of the UK marine industry. From pioneering technologies to world-class equipment and specialist services, our members have an incredible amount to offer the international market.
“Bringing so many British businesses together under the British Marine banner creates a powerful collective presence, opening doors to new markets, valuable connections and commercial opportunities. We’re proud to champion their expertise and help them make the most of this important global platform,” commented Earle Stanner, CEO of British Marine.
Connecting British businesses with the world
At the heart of the British Pavilion, the British Marine stand (03.221) will provide a welcoming hub for members, international visitors and industry stakeholders to connect, network and explore new business opportunities. The British Marine team, including CEO Earle Stanner and President Lyndsay McClay, will be on hand throughout the show to support exhibitors, facilitate introductions and help members build valuable international relationships.
Visitors are encouraged to stop by, meet the team and enjoy complimentary tea and coffee throughout the event, providing the perfect opportunity to catch up with industry colleagues, make new connections and discover how British Marine can support their business.
Meanwhile, the Superyacht UK Pavilion in Hall 8 will provide a dedicated platform for members operating within the global superyacht sector. Located within the show’s Superyacht Zone, the pavilion will showcase the specialist capabilities, craftsmanship and innovation that make the UK a leading destination for superyacht products, services and expertise.
Both pavilions will provide opportunities for members to connect with prospective customers, strengthen existing partnerships and explore new business opportunities.
Adding to the networking programme, British Marine is planning to host an informal ‘British Themed’ drinks reception on its stand on Wednesday 18 November from 16:30 (local time), bringing together members, exhibitors and invited guests for an opportunity to reconnect, exchange ideas and forge new relationships.
Celebrating British innovation and excellence
Beyond the exhibition floor, Metstrade provides an international stage to recognise outstanding achievement across the marine industry, with British Marine members once again featuring among the contenders for two of the sector’s most prestigious awards programmes.
The internationally renowned DAME Design Awards celebrate their 35th anniversary in 2026, continuing to recognise excellence in marine equipment design, functionality and innovation.
Winners will be announced during the show’s official opening on Tuesday 17 November, with awards presented across eight categories spanning everything from deck equipment and navigation systems to onboard comfort, entertainment and electrical technologies.
Among the 74 shortlisted products from 30 countries are entries from British Marine members August Race, Cyclops Marine, Garmin Europe and Scanstrut, highlighting the innovation and technical expertise within the membership.
The celebrations continue on Wednesday 18 November with the 11th Boat Builder Awards, taking place at Harbour 8 restaurant.
Recognising outstanding achievement across the international leisure boatbuilding industry and its supply chain, the awards will celebrate businesses and individuals making a significant contribution to innovation, collaboration, sustainability, skills and industry leadership.
This year’s shortlist features 34 companies from across the global sector, with British Marine members including Princess Yachts, Groupe Beneteau and Lewmar among those recognised. Individuals associated with Williams Jet Tenders, Princess Yachts, Sunseeker International and Beneteau have also received nominations in the Rising Star and Lifetime Achievement categories, reflecting the exceptional talent, leadership and experience found throughout the industry.
“Seeing our members recognised on the international stage is always a proud moment. These nominations are a testament to the creativity, expertise and determination that drive our industry forward.
“Whether developing groundbreaking products, advancing sustainable practices or nurturing the next generation of talent, our members are helping to shape the future of marine. We wish every nominee the very best of luck and look forward to celebrating their achievements in Amsterdam,” Earle added.
Another highlight of this year’s programme will be the return of Women in the Marine Industry International, celebrating its fifth anniversary on Wednesday 18 November. Co-hosted by British Marine, Metstrade, Soundings Trade Only and Marine Industry News, the event has become an important fixture in the Metstrade calendar, bringing together industry professionals from around the world to share perspectives, challenge thinking and inspire positive change.
Under the 2026 theme, ‘Future of the marine workplace: building the next generation of leaders’, an international panel of female business leaders will explore how the industry can attract, develop and retain talent, create more inclusive and high-performing workplaces, and equip future generations with the skills, confidence and opportunities to succeed.
The discussion will also examine how diverse perspectives and stronger leadership pipelines can contribute to more resilient, innovative and successful businesses.
Moderated by Michele Goldsmith, Vice President and General Manager of Soundings Trade Only Group, the panel will feature:
- Fiona Richardson, VP of Global Human Resources, Brunswick Corporation’s Navico Group
- Paulee Day, President and Chief Executive Officer, West Marine
- Victoria Low, CEO, The Magenta Project
Taking place on the Metstrade Stage, the event will run from 08:30–10:30 (doors open at 08:15) and will include a complimentary breakfast, panel discussion and networking. Attendance is free for Metstrade ticket holders, with professionals of all genders warmly encouraged to attend and contribute to the conversation.
Speaking of the event, Lyndsay McClay, President of British Marine and member of the Women in the Marine Industry International Steering Group, commented: “Five years on, Women in the Marine Industry International continues to demonstrate the value of bringing people together to share experiences, challenge perceptions and inspire change.
“This year’s focus on developing future leaders is particularly important. If we want our industry to thrive, we must ensure that talented people from all backgrounds can see a future for themselves in marine, with the opportunities and support to achieve their potential. I’m looking forward to another inspiring event that encourages fresh thinking, meaningful connections and, importantly, positive action.”
For further details and to register, visit: Women in the Marine Industry International.
Flying the flag for British marine excellence
With more than 1,700 exhibitors and thousands of marine professionals expected to attend, Metstrade 2026 promises three days of international business, innovation and industry connections.
From showcasing groundbreaking products and celebrating award-winning achievements to championing the next generation of marine leaders, British Marine and its members will play a prominent role throughout the event. British Marine encourages anyone attending Metstrade to visit the British and Superyacht UK Pavilions, meet the team and discover the breadth of British expertise on show.
Whether exhibiting, visiting or exploring new international opportunities, Metstrade offers an invaluable chance to make connections, strengthen partnerships and help put British marine businesses firmly on the global map.
Metstrade 2026 | 17–19 November | RAI Amsterdam
Meet British Marine: Stand 03.221, British Pavilion, Hall 3
Explore Superyacht UK: Hall 8, Superyacht Zone
Further information: www.metstrade.com
