Metstrade 2025: record attendance and full occupancy for the marine equipment mecca

© Maxime Leriche

Metstrade 2025, held in Amsterdam from November 18 to 20, reached a historic milestone. With 1,700 exhibitors, 20,000 unique visitors and the RAI fully occupied, the event confirmed its status as the world's leading BtoB equipment show.

Increased visitor numbers on an enlarged site

For the first time since its creation, Metstrade used the entire halls of the RAI Amsterdam. This logistical deployment allowed traffic to flow more smoothly and provided a clearer exhibition route. The figures confirm the impact of this extension: 20,000 unique visitors, 32,000 cumulative visits, and 1,700 exhibitors from all sectors of the boating industry.

The show featured several themed areas to structure the offering: superyachts, marinas, shipyards, materials, foils, technical suppliers, start-ups, and environmental solutions grouped together in the Next Gen Zone. This enabled professionals to target their exchanges more effectively.

30 national pavilions provided an opportunity to follow the latest developments in the major international boat basins. Many exhibitors reported a higher density of trade than in previous years, particularly in the specialized halls.

A strong presence for French equipment manufacturers

Cock-a-doodle-doo! French equipment manufacturers figured prominently in the various sectors represented at the RAI. Present in large numbers in the national pavilion coordinated by Business France and FIN, but also spread across other thematic zones, they presented a diversity of solutions ranging from technical fittings to on-board electronic systems. This representation illustrates the strength of the French nautical industrial fabric and its positioning in high value-added markets, particularly in the sustainable, connected and superyacht equipment segments.

Unanimously positive feedback from professionals

Feedback from exhibitors and visitors alike was very positive. The expansion of the site, the clarity of the itinerary, the relevance of the conferences and the concentration of decision-makers were widely praised. Metstrade confirms its ability to unite the industry and foster international cooperation.

The organization is already preparing for the 2026 edition, with a focus on layout and services. According to Niels Klarenbeek, Director of Nautical Events, the aim is to respond to the growing number of visitors and the more specific needs of exhibitors.

With this 2025 edition, Metstrade is setting a new standard for professional boat shows, focusing on the efficiency of exchanges, the legibility of the offer and the internationalization of the event. For suppliers, distributors and builders, the Amsterdam show remains a must in the trade calendar.

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