Metstrade 2026 has announced its content programme to help leisure marine professionals navigate market change, discover emerging opportunities and drive future success.
As the leisure marine industry adapts to shifting market conditions, changing consumer expectations, digital transformation and increasing pressure to improve efficiency, Metstrade’s content programme will help businesses identify opportunities, solve challenges and remain competitive. This will be spearheaded by a keynote speech at the Official Opening of Metstrade 2026 by Groupe Beneteau CEO, Bruno Thivoyon.
Metstrade is taking a targeted approach to conference content with an emphasis on impact and practical value. Networking opportunities will also be available, giving visitors and exhibitors the chance to continue conversations with speakers, peers and industry experts in an informal setting.
The programme comes at a pivotal time for the global boating industry. Recent market analysis from ICOMIA and Boats Group shows the volume market facing continued pressure, with average new boat prices declining by 6.9% year-on-year, while the premium segment remains resilient, including 10.6% volume growth in the 56-79ft yacht category. At the same time, boatbuilders and suppliers are increasingly focused on reducing costs, improving production efficiency, strengthening supply chains, embracing digitalisation and adopting new technologies.
Against this backdrop, Metstrade has curated a programme of expert-led discussions, practical case studies and networking opportunities, where visitors will gain insights into how to respond to a changing leisure marine market.
The full conference programme is now available in advance of the exhibition, enabling visitors to build personalised agendas and ensure dedicated time is made to attend relevant events.
As the CEO of the world’s largest boatbuilder by number of projects delivered, Bruno Thivoyon of Groupe Beneteau will be the keynote speaker for the Metstrade Official Opening. He will be sharing his perspective on the future of recreational boating and the forces transforming the sector.
Patricia Becker, Exhibition Manager at Metstrade, said: "The leisure marine industry is evolving rapidly, presenting both new opportunities and complex challenges. Our 2026 content programme has been carefully curated to ensure attendees gain valuable insights, practical takeaways and access to the conversations that matter most. We want everyone to gain knowledge they can apply directly to their businesses."
"The opening keynote speech from Bruno Thivoyon will set the tone for the whole of Metstrade – addressing market conditions and finding the solutions to innovate and grow.”