Boater’s World Manufacturing Group Expands to North Carolina, Creating New Job Opportunities
In a significant boost to Beaufort County’s economy, Boater’s World Manufacturing Group, LLC has announced plans to establish a new boat manufacturing campus in Chocowinity. This development is set to create 179 new jobs, with the company investing over $6 million in the project.
Governor Josh Stein highlighted the state’s manufacturing strength: “From building materials to building boats, North Carolina’s manufacturing expertise is second to none. When companies choose rural North Carolina, it reminds the world that North Carolina is a top-tier state for business. Thanks to our workforce, our infrastructure, and our commitment to supporting long-term economic opportunity from the mountains to the coast, we have what companies need to thrive.”
As part of Outdoor Network’s venture into boat manufacturing through the acquisition of NauticStar Boats, Boater’s World Manufacturing Group aims to leverage its extensive experience in the marine and powersports industry. The new 212,000-square-foot facility on the Pamlico River waterfront will serve as the flagship manufacturing operation for the company.
Martin Polo, CEO of Outdoor Network, expressed enthusiasm for the new endeavor: “Our growth over the last 27 years has always been driven by a simple focus on doing right by our customers, and building boats of our own has always been one of our goals to better serve the marine community. Taking the helm as a manufacturer of the NauticStar marine line allows us to combine decades of marine retail experience with genuine craft building. We are grateful for North Carolina’s partnership and excited to make Beaufort County our manufacturing home.”
Lee Lilley, N.C. Commerce Secretary, emphasized the strategic advantages of the location: “This announcement reflects the confidence employers have in our state’s strong business climate. With a skilled and talented boatbuilding workforce, efficient waterfront access, and robust regional marine supply chain, the Town of Chocowinity has the right components to support and grow our $17 billion outdoor recreation economy.”
The new roles will offer an average annual salary of $54,916, surpassing the average salary in Beaufort County, which stands at $50,175. The total payroll impact is expected to exceed $1.2 million annually for the region.
To support this expansion, a performance-based grant of $375,000 from the One North Carolina Fund has been allocated to assist the company’s relocation. The OneNC Fund aids local governments in attracting economic investments and job creation, with companies required to meet specific targets before receiving funds. Boater’s World Manufacturing Group is expected to invest $1.3 million to qualify for the grant, with matching contributions required from local governments.
Senator Bob Brinson praised the collaborative efforts behind the project: “This is a tremendous win for Beaufort County and for rural eastern North Carolina. This project demonstrates what can be accomplished when the General Assembly, the Governor’s Office, the Department of Commerce, and local leaders work together to support existing industries, encourage private investment, and strengthen our rural communities, and I look forward to seeing the lasting economic impact Boater’s World Manufacturing Group will have on the region.”
Representative Keith Kidwell added, “We welcome Boater’s World Manufacturing Group and all they will build in Chocowinity. Supporting business growth and creating meaningful opportunities are important to the people of Beaufort County, and we’re grateful that this company sees the value of our community’s resources and readiness.”
Key partners in this initiative include the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, the North Carolina General Assembly, Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions, the North Carolina Community College System, Beaufort County Community College, Beaufort County, and the Town of Chocowinity.
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