European Boating Industry, a European structure bringing together the national associations of the nautical industries, has renewed its management. Jean-Pierre Goudant, elected president on June 3, 2019, gives us his vision of the role of EBI and the topics to be addressed.
Can you remind us of your roles in the French and European nautical industry before your election?
I was a member of the Supervisory Board of the Bénéteau Group until the change of status last February (editor's note: the Group became a limited company with a Board of Directors). I was also vice-president of the French Nautical Industries Federation and I remain vice-president of Nautic Festival SA (editor's note: the structure in charge of organizing the Paris Nautic), in charge of the strategic committee. I joined EBI at the request of Yves Lyon-Caen when he was president, as a member of the Executive Committee. Piero Formenti's term as Chairman was coming to an end, after two years, renewable once. At the request of my peers, I accepted to take the position.
What is your roadmap for EBI?
EBI has had its ups and downs. EBI needs to be closer to the European Union authorities to follow up on the files. We need to reconnect with DG Mare and give more visibility to EBI. We need to be recognized as the official voice of the yachting and marine industry in Europe, to do more lobbying.
What are the concrete measures to achieve this? Do we need more members?
On the one hand, there is a need to improve harmonization between federations by better relaying information and sharing initiatives and results within EBI. The association was originally created around the 5 large federations of Italy, France, the UK, Germany and Spain. The UK left and other smaller federations, such as in Scandinavia, left after the 2008 crisis and financial difficulties. Some have returned and others are interested. We are going to continue our prospecting with the objective of winning back. This is important for our weight in discussions with the European authorities.
What are the main upcoming topics for EBI?
There is a review of the RCD (European Recreational Craft Directive) coming up. We have been at the origin of it and it is important that EBI is the one to implement this review. End of life boats are also an issue. For example, we must make other federations aware of France's actions in this area. We will also work on improving our market studies and statistical monitoring. Finally, a complete reorganization of EBI is underway. We are looking for a new secretary general.
