Brunswick Corporation has posted a 6.9 per cent increase in third quarter sales, reaching US$1.45 billion for the three months ending September 2026.
All four of its main divisions recorded growth, with the Boat division leading the way. The results, released on 29 October, are welcome news for the American marine giant, whose brands include Mercury Marine, Boston Whaler, Sea Ray, Bayliner, Simrad and Lowrance.
Adjusted operating earnings rose 37.9 per cent to US$146.7 million. On a standard accounting basis, operating earnings reached US$104 million.
Mercury's Propulsion division increased sales by 7 per cent, helped by demand for higher horsepower outboards and orders from boatbuilders. Twin and triple engine arrangements are now common on many larger recreational boats, particularly in the American market. Mercury achieved 67 percent overall outboard engine share at September's Cannes Yachting Festival, reflecting that strength in the premium segment.
Brunswick says five major outboard development programmes remain on track, although it hasn't named the engines or given launch dates.
Parts and Accessories sales rose 5 per cent. That's an important part of Brunswick's business, particularly when owners choose to maintain their existing boats rather than replace them. Propulsion's adjusted operating earnings increased 51 per cent, while Parts and Accessories recorded a 14 per cent improvement.
The Boat division recorded the strongest sales growth, up 9 per cent. Brunswick reported good demand across its premium and core boat ranges, helped by improved manufacturing efficiencies and pricing. The Navan C38 generated significant dealer interest at Cannes, with wholesale orders for Navan models exceeding prior year levels.
Navico Group also performed well, with sales rising 6 per cent. The business includes Simrad, Lowrance and B&G, brands familiar to New Zealand boat owners. Demand from boatbuilders and customers upgrading existing electronics contributed to the result. Navico's adjusted operating earnings climbed 36 per cent.
Brunswick's Freedom Boat Club business also remains a major player in shared boating. The company estimates it holds close to 70 per cent of the North American boat club market. That figure is Brunswick's estimate, rather than an independently confirmed market share.
Brunswick now expects full year sales between US$5.7 billion and US$5.8 billion, with adjusted earnings of approximately US$4.65 per diluted share.
There's also a change at the top approaching. Áine Denari, currently Navico Group president and Brunswick's chief technology officer, is due to take over as chief executive from David Foulkes on 1 January 2027.
For New Zealand boaters, Mercury's continued outboard development is probably the most interesting part of these results. Mercury engines are well established here, while Simrad and Lowrance electronics are fitted to a wide range of recreational and fishing boats.
Brunswick's latest figures tell us its own business is growing. Whether that reflects a broader improvement in boat sales, particularly in New Zealand, is another question.
