Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
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Searchable PDF Option Now Available When Saving Directly From PFU IX2500 to Network Folders
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, March 11 -- The Business Technology Association issued the following news:
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Searchable PDF Option Now Available When Saving Directly From PFU iX2500 to Network Folders
PFU Ltd. has announced an update for the ScanSnap series of image scanners, designed to quickly digitize documents with a single touch.
Powered by the next-generation SoC "iiGA," the iX2500 can now save searchable PDFs directly to folders on a network HDD (NAS) without the need for a PC or smartphone.
In addition, ScanSnap Home (for PC) now offers native support for Apple silicon Macs.
Additionally,
... Show Full Article
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, March 11 -- The Business Technology Association issued the following news:
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Searchable PDF Option Now Available When Saving Directly From PFU iX2500 to Network Folders
PFU Ltd. has announced an update for the ScanSnap series of image scanners, designed to quickly digitize documents with a single touch.
Powered by the next-generation SoC "iiGA," the iX2500 can now save searchable PDFs directly to folders on a network HDD (NAS) without the need for a PC or smartphone.
In addition, ScanSnap Home (for PC) now offers native support for Apple silicon Macs.
Additionally,the Office file conversion feature, which previously required a separate application, is now integrated into ScanSnap Home (for PC) and can be used without any additional installation.
Furthermore, the iX2500 now supports a standard scanning length of up to 500 mm. Documents that previously required switching to long page mode can now be scanned comfortably without mode changes.
Transcending time, location and devices, ScanSnap connects the analog and digital worlds to offer a smart and comfortable lifestyle.
Update Details
1. Save searchable PDFs directly from the iX2500 to network folders -- no PC required. You can now create searchable PDFs when saving directly from the iX2500 to a network folder on a network HDD (NAS) without using a PC or smartphone. The iX2500 handles everything from scanning to saving, enabling quick and seamless archiving in both office and home settings. The saved PDFs are text-recognized, making searching smooth. Scan to a NAS and create searchable PDFs directly from the iX2500 without using a PC or smartphone.
2. Native support for Apple silicon. The Mac version of ScanSnap Home now natively supports Apple silicon-equipped Macs. Continue enjoying comfortable scanning with ScanSnap in your Mac environment.
3. Office conversion now possible without additional installation. The Office file conversion feature for scanned data in ScanSnap Home (for PC) has been updated and is now integrated into the app, eliminating the need for a separate installation. Updated ScanSnap Home converts scanned files to Office formats directly in the app without extra installation.
4. iX2500 standard scan length extended to 500mm. Previously, standard scans supported documents up to 360 mm in length. With this update, the maximum standard scan length has been extended to 500 mm (excluding Excellent mode). Slightly longer receipts and other documents that previously required switching to long page mode can now be scanned without changing modes. iX2500 now supports extended scan length up to 500mm for longer document capture. For documents longer than 500 mm, long page mode is still required. However, the settings for long page mode have been made more convenient. Long page settings have been added as an option to temporarily change scan settings directly from the iX2500 touch screen. In addition, long page settings are now available in profiles where scan settings can be preset and registered as icons, allowing you to create profiles specifically for long documents in advance. Long page mode still required for 500 mm-plus documents, now with more convenient touch-screen settings.
To use the new features, you must update the firmware via ScanSnap Home.
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Original text here: https://businesstechnologyassociation.growthzoneapp.com/news/Details/searchable-pdf-option-now-available-when-saving-directly-from-pfu-ix2500-to-network-folders-318106
[Category: Business]
Ipsos Research Highlights Boater Trends, Market Growth Opportunities
BROOKLYN PARK, Minnesota, March 11 (TNSrep) -- The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas issued the following news on March 10, 2026:
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Ipsos Research Highlights Boater Trends, Market Growth Opportunities
* Advisory Group commissions study to help manufacturers, dealers and Discover Boating target growth audiences and convert interest into ownership
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The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), today released new consumer research conducted to inform the Market Expansion Advisory Group's work to accelerate long-term
... Show Full Article
BROOKLYN PARK, Minnesota, March 11 (TNSrep) -- The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas issued the following news on March 10, 2026:
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Ipsos Research Highlights Boater Trends, Market Growth Opportunities
* Advisory Group commissions study to help manufacturers, dealers and Discover Boating target growth audiences and convert interest into ownership
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The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), today released new consumer research conducted to inform the Market Expansion Advisory Group's work to accelerate long-termboating growth. Leading global research firm, Ipsos, was commissioned by the Advisory Group to provide a better understanding of today's boaters, identify the industry's highest potential growth audiences, and create a roadmap for growing participation in a changing market.
The research combines qualitative interviews with industry leaders and quantitative research among current boat owners, including recent buyers, as well as prospective owners, to answer a critical question facing the industry: how do we grow the boating market in a changing consumer landscape?
"At a time when consumer decision-making is changing, the Ipsos research gives the industry a shared, data-backed understanding of how consumers are discovering, evaluating and engaging with boating," said Ellen Bradley, senior vice president and chief brand officer for NMMA. "It moves us beyond assumptions and provides a clear foundation for how Discover Boating, manufacturers and dealers must work together to attract more people to boating and convert interest into participation in a meaningful and sustainable way."
A More Segmented Boating Market
To grow the boating market, the industry needs a clear understanding of both current boat owners and future buyers. Ipsos identified six distinct groups within these audiences: Established Owners, Recent Buyers, Time-Pressed, Cost-Conscious, Inexperienced and Sales-Ready. Understanding their unique needs and motivations helps the industry better support people as they explore and move toward boat ownership.
Current Owners
* Established Owners (purchased their main boat prior to 2020)
* Recent Buyers (purchased their main boat after 2020)
When comparing the profiles of Established Owners (pre-2020) and Recent Buyers (post-2020), there are critical shifts. Recent Buyers in this survey skew more diverse and with a higher net income more affluent than Established Owners and are more likely to have entered boating through charters, rentals and adjacent outdoor activities. These buyers boat more frequently and are motivated by both relaxation and adventure, yet face barriers including time constraints, operator stress and weather unpredictability.
Their path to purchase is increasingly digital-first and self-directed, shaped by YouTube, social media, creator influence, online reviews, and manufacturer and dealer websites. However, trust still hinges on people. Dealers remain critical for credibility, transparent pricing and relationship-building. This means boat shows have an opportunity to evolve from transactional "deal floors" into experiential learning environments that build enthusiasm, education and long-term engagement.
Prospective Owners
Prospective Owners (surveyed consumers who self-identify as being at least 50% or more likely to purchase a boat in the future) represent an estimated 35 million high-potential new buyers^. Across this audience, three realities define the opportunity: cost barriers, complexity and an evolved purchase journey.
Transparency around costs, accessible financing and simple entry points into boating can significantly increase consumer confidence. Many prospective buyers see boating as complex or intimidating due to limited knowledge and logistical concerns. The industry can address these challenges through practical education, structured onboarding and sustained support throughout the ownership journey.
These Prospective Owners make purchasing decisions through a combination of personal trust and digital content influence. Top influences include friends and family, YouTube, social media and manufacturers, with dealers remaining pivotal for reputation and trustworthiness, reinforcing the need to modernize digitally without losing human relationship-building.
Top of the Funnel: Inspiration and demystification from Discover Boating
* Time-Pressed (20%): concerned about having enough time to use the boat; seeking a near-term lifestyle solution.
- Actionable implication: emphasize convenience, quick start via clubs or rentals and clear upgrade paths.
* Cost-Conscious (18%): motivated but budget constrained.
- Actionable implication: offer used or refurbished tiers, flexible financing information, Total Cost of Ownership tools and access-first pathways.
Middle of the Funnel: Concrete information and hands-on experiences from Discover Boating, dealers and manufacturers alike
* Inexperienced (23%): have the means but need more experience, support and knowledge.
- Actionable implication: deploy learning content, demos, skills clinics and trusted advisors.
Bottom of the Funnel: Ready for meetings with dealers or manufacturers
* Sales-Ready (19%): fewest barriers, ready to have a sales conversation.
- Actionable implication: prioritize speed, inventory certainty, transparent pricing and trade and finance simplicity.
The research underscores that sustained growth comes from sparking interest in boating as a rewarding lifestyle and meeting consumers where they are, with tailored outreach, relevant messaging and accessible experiences that align with distinct audience segments, rather than a broad, one-size-fits-all marketing approach.
Exposure and Access Drive Future Ownership
A key finding of the research is that exposure to water and boating-adjacent activities strongly correlates with future boat ownership. Consumers who participate in rentals, clubs, charters or social boating experiences are significantly more likely to consider owning a boat over time. Ipsos found that alternative access models are not replacing ownership but instead serve as important entry points, particularly for surveyed younger, time-constrained and cost-conscious consumers, helping build confidence, familiarity and long-term interest in boating.
Why This Research Matters Now
Economic uncertainty, generational shifts, changing definitions of ownership, increased competition from other discretionary leisure experiences, and increased digital influence are reshaping how consumers evaluate major lifestyle purchases. This research provides the industry with a shared fact base and a common framework to adapt, enabling more efficient marketing, higher-quality leads and sustainable growth.
Education is Key
For more detailed information on the new consumer research, visit the Discover Boating Industry Resource Center. You will find an executive summary, presentation slides and recorded webinar.
Additionally, the full Ipsos Research Member and Industry Handbook is available upon request. Email consumerinsights@discoverboating.com to request access.
Furthermore, for questions or information, please contact NMMA's Maggie Maskery at mmaskery@nmma.org.
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^/ Sizing was estimated using survey data and an assumed population number of 266,978,268 per 2024 census.
Please note: All insights collected reflect opinions of our surveyed Boat Owners and Prospective Owners only; Methodology: Quantitative Survey Fielded August 22, 2025 through September 12, 2025; N=500 Boat Owners, N= 500 Lapsed Owners, N=500 Prospective Owners; Boat Owners and Lapsed Owners defined as own (or used to own) and consider primary vessel a motorized/power boat or sailboat; Prospective Owners defined as 50% or more likely to purchase a motorized/power boat or sailboat in the future and not a current or lapsed owner. Survey tool and details on analytics available upon request.
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Original text here: https://mraa.com/ipsos-research-boater-trends-market-growth-opportunities/
[Category: Business]
HP Research: Low-Effort AI-Built Attacks Are Beating Current Defenses
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, March 11 (TNSrpt) -- The Business Technology Association issued the following news:
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HP Research: Low-Effort AI-Built Attacks Are Beating Current Defenses
HP Inc. has issued its latest Threat Insights Report, with strong indications that attackers are using AI to scale and accelerate campaigns -- with many prioritizing cost, effort and efficiency over quality. Despite being formulaic and low-effort, these AI-assisted attacks are slipping past enterprise defenses.
The report provides an analysis of real-world cyberattacks, helping organizations keep up with the latest
... Show Full Article
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, March 11 (TNSrpt) -- The Business Technology Association issued the following news:
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HP Research: Low-Effort AI-Built Attacks Are Beating Current Defenses
HP Inc. has issued its latest Threat Insights Report, with strong indications that attackers are using AI to scale and accelerate campaigns -- with many prioritizing cost, effort and efficiency over quality. Despite being formulaic and low-effort, these AI-assisted attacks are slipping past enterprise defenses.
The report provides an analysis of real-world cyberattacks, helping organizations keep up with the latesttechniques cybercriminals are using to evade detection and breach PCs in the fast-changing cybercrime landscape. Based on the millions of endpoints running HP Wolf Security, notable campaigns identified by HP Threat Researchers include:
* Vibe-Hacking Scripts Using Booking.com Redirects: Attackers are using AI to generate ready-made infection scripts -- known as vibe-hacking -- to automate malware delivery. In one campaign, a link within a fake invoice PDF triggers a silent download from a compromised site before redirecting victims to trusted platforms, like Booking.com.
* Flat-Pack Malware Speeds Up Campaign Building: Threat actors are assembling attacks using inexpensive, off-the-shelf malware components, likely purchased from hacker forums. While lures and final payloads change, attackers are reusing the same intermediate scripts and installers -- allowing them to quickly build, customize and scale campaigns with minimal effort. Notably, this isn't the work of a single threat group; multiple, unrelated actors are using the same building blocks.
* Malware Hidden in Fake Teams Installer 'Piggyback' Attack: Campaigns distributed malware using search engine poisoning and malicious adverts that promote fake Microsoft Teams websites. Victims download a malicious installer bundle in which hidden Oyster Loader malware piggybacks on the Teams installation process, allowing the real app to install while the infection runs unnoticed -- giving the attacker backdoor control of the user's device.
"It's the classic project management triangle -- speed, quality and cost," said Alex Holland, principal threat research, HP Security Lab. "You often sacrifice one of them. What we're seeing is many attackers are optimizing for speed and cost, not quality. They are not using AI to raise the bar; they're using it to move faster and reduce effort. The campaigns themselves are basic but the uncomfortable reality is they still work."
By isolating threats that have evaded detection tools on PCs -- but still allowing malware to detonate safely inside secure containers -- HP Wolf Security has insight into the latest techniques used by cybercriminals. To date, HP Wolf Security customers have clicked on more than 60 billion email attachments, web pages and downloaded files with no reported breaches.
The report, which examines data from October through December 2025, details how cybercriminals continue to diversify attack methods to bypass security tools with no reported breaches.
* At least 14% of email threats identified by HP Sure Click bypassed one or more email gateway scanners.
* Executable files were the most popular delivery type (37%), followed by .zip (11%) and .docx (10%).
"AI-assisted attacks are shining a spotlight on the limitations of detection-led security," said Dr. Ian Pratt, global head of security for personal systems, HP Inc. "When attackers can generate and repackage malware in minutes, detection-based defenses can't keep up. Instead of trying to spot every variant, organizations need to reduce exposure. By containing high-risk activities -- like opening untrusted attachments or clicking unknown links -- within an isolated environment, businesses can stop threats before they cause damage and remove an entire class of risk."
Please visit the Threat Research blog to view the report.
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REPORT: https://threatresearch.ext.hp.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/HP_Wolf_Security_Threat_Insights_Report_March_2026.pdf
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Original text here: https://businesstechnologyassociation.growthzoneapp.com/news/Details/hp-research-low-effort-ai-built-attacks-are-beating-current-defenses-318089
[Category: Business]
Court Orders Refunds for IEEPA Tariffs
NEW YORK, March 11 -- The Toy Association issued the following news on March 10, 2026:
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Court Orders Refunds for IEEPA Tariffs; Implementation Process Ongoing
As previously shared in an email update to the full Toy Association membership, on March 4, the U.S. Court of International Trade issued an order requiring refunds to importers of goods whose entries were subject to tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
Under the court's order, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has been directed to liquidate all unliquidated entries that included IEEPA
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, March 11 -- The Toy Association issued the following news on March 10, 2026:
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Court Orders Refunds for IEEPA Tariffs; Implementation Process Ongoing
As previously shared in an email update to the full Toy Association membership, on March 4, the U.S. Court of International Trade issued an order requiring refunds to importers of goods whose entries were subject to tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
Under the court's order, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has been directed to liquidate all unliquidated entries that included IEEPAduties, with those duties removed. The decision applies broadly to importers of record whose entries were subject to the tariffs.
In its order, the court stated that "all importers of record whose entries were subject to IEEPA duties are entitled to the benefit of the Learning Resources [Supreme Court] decision." Many entries associated with Toy Association member companies remain unliquidated and are therefore covered by the order.
However, on March 6, CBP informed the court that it could not immediately comply with the order because the agency is not currently able to halt processing of the tariffs and begin issuing refunds. CBP told the court that it could have a system in place within approximately 45 days to manage what could be an unprecedented volume of refund requests.
As a result, the court suspended its original directive and issued a new order "to the extent that it directs immediate compliance."
"Notably, the court did not vacate or withdraw the underlying order -- it simply acknowledged that immediate execution is not feasible. CBP now has breathing room to build its automated refund tool, though the court set no specific deadline and left the terms of the suspension deliberately open-ended," says legal news source JD Supra.
In the meantime, according to Politico, the Trump administration must provide the Court of International Trade with a report by 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 12 outlining its plan for refunding tariffs that the U.S. Supreme Court previously ruled unlawful. The update could provide additional insight into how federal officials intend to manage an estimated $166 billion in potential repayments tied to the invalidated tariffs.
The Toy Association continues to actively monitor policy and legal developments and will provide members with timely updates as new information becomes available.
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Original text here: https://www.toyassociation.org/PressRoom2/News/2026-News/court-orders-refunds-for-ieepa-tariffs-implementation-process-ongoing.aspx
[Category: Business]
Canon Set to Launch Multifunction Device Remanufacturing Business in the United States as Part of Global Rollout
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, March 11 -- The Business Technology Association issued the following news:
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Canon Set to Launch Multifunction Device Remanufacturing Business in the United States as Part of Global Rollout
Canon Inc., Canon U.S.A. Inc. and Canon Virginia Inc. have announced the further expansion of Canon's global multifunction device remanufacturing business, with remanufacturing of one multifunction device series, currently set to begin at Canon Virginia in April 2026.
Canon currently uses proprietary technologies to remanufacture used multifunction devices to function with like-new
... Show Full Article
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, March 11 -- The Business Technology Association issued the following news:
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Canon Set to Launch Multifunction Device Remanufacturing Business in the United States as Part of Global Rollout
Canon Inc., Canon U.S.A. Inc. and Canon Virginia Inc. have announced the further expansion of Canon's global multifunction device remanufacturing business, with remanufacturing of one multifunction device series, currently set to begin at Canon Virginia in April 2026.
Canon currently uses proprietary technologies to remanufacture used multifunction devices to function with like-newcondition before resale in the Japanese and European markets, with remanufacturing taking place at Canon Ecology Industry in Japan and Canon Giessen in Germany. Canon will now be expanding this remanufacturing business at Canon Virginia by introducing the standardized production processes and remanufacturing technologies developed at the two existing plants.
Canon's multifunction devices are designed using a platform-based approach that standardizes core structural elements for each product class. Devices within each product class also share common components, modules and assembly/disassembly methods. This means different models within the same product class have interchangeable components and modules, as well as standardized assembly procedures and production lines. Quality standards can also be applied, enabling efficient production and consistent quality while also facilitating remanufacturing.
Canon uses operational data from collected used devices to determine whether parts can be reused based on years in service, parts replacement history and print volume. Through this process, lists of parts that need replacement are automatically generated. This helps maximize parts reuse and streamline remanufacturing.
By standardizing the two remanufacturing processes on a global scale, Canon is well positioned to deliver competitively priced remanufactured multifunction devices. These devices will be remanufactured to provide both high quality and performance and help with environmental efforts thanks to a parts reuse rate that's estimated to be more than 90% per unit.
"This expansion reflects Canon's corporate philosophy of Kyosei -- living and working together for the common good -- with an initiative designed to support both business growth and environmental responsibility," said Kiyoshi Oka, executive vice president and general manager, Marketing Strategy Unit, Canon U.S.A. Inc. "Bringing remanufacturing to Canon Virginia is an important step in that direction. By standardizing processes and reusing parts, we are aiming to help reduce environmental impact while continuing to provide customers with remanufactured devices that deliver the high quality performance they expect from Canon."
Canon Virginia will adopt these production processes and collaborate with Canon U.S.A. to officially launch this remanufacturing business in a market expected to see steady demand in the United States.
In other news, Canon U.S.A. Inc. has announced it has been recognized by Keypoint Intelligence with the 2026 A3 Line of the Year Award, in addition to receiving several 2026 Pick Awards for the uniFLOW Online solution and devices across the imageCLASS X and imageFORCE product portfolios.
"At Canon, we are consistently striving to advance and improve our technologies," said Kiyoshi Oka, executive vice president and general manager, Marketing Strategy Unit, Canon U.S.A. Inc. "We are incredibly proud to have a number of printers, as well as an innovative cloud-based solution we offer, recognized with these prestigious awards."
The 2026 A3 Line of the Year Award recognizes multifunction printers which displayed outstanding performance during Keypoint Intelligence's testing across the entire A3 line, highlighting these devices' consistent and excellent ease of use. Keypoint noted that Canon's A3 printer line presents a fresh, broad portfolio with a strong feature set designed to meet the unique needs of hybrid working environments.
Across all tested devices, Keypoint Intelligence analysts noted the consistently strong image quality delivered by Canon's A3 printer line, including clean text and fine lines, bold and consistent solids, and a distinct halftone range.
In addition to the A3 Line of the Year Award, the imageFORCE 6170, imageFORCE C5140 and imageFORCE C5150 printers have also been individually awarded 2026 A3 Pick Awards for their excellent image quality and outstanding performance. Each printer demonstrated solid long-run and short-run print speed test results, with the imageFORCE C5140 and imageFORCE C5150 printers praised for producing bright and sharp business graphics.
Canon has also received 2026 A4 Pick Awards for its imageCLASS X LBP1538C II, imageCLASS X MF1538C II, imageFORCE C1333P and imageFORCE C1333F printers. These four printers were recognized for their impressive image quality, presenting clean lines and sharp graphics, as well as their above-average scan speeds during Keypoint's testing. These attributes can significantly benefit today's hybrid workers and their digitization needs.
Canon's printers across both the A3 and A4 lines were collectively recognized for their strong security offerings, which include features that can help users in their efforts to manage sensitive data and mitigate risk of unauthorized access. Additionally, all awarded printers received praise for their faster-than-average job streams and first-print-out times during Keypoint testing, making these devices highly productive in multiuser environments.
Additionally, uniFLOW Online, a cloud-based print and scan solution Canon offers secured a 2026 Pick Award for its ability to effectively support the needs of the modern hybrid workplace. uniFLOW Online was praised by analysts for its pull printing feature, which is designed to help users protect output in mixed fleets with features such as enforced multifactor authentication and default six-digit PINs, driver-free printing via the uniFLOW Online Virtual Printer App which allows for flexible mobile and email submission, Remote Device Access that helps to reduce the need for on-site support visits and advanced scan workflows with numerous supported scan destinations.
"Our analysts at Keypoint Intelligence were truly impressed by the capabilities of these products," said Rachel Dean, technical editor, Workplace Group, Keypoint Intelligence. "The remarkable output speed and quality of these imageCLASS and imageFORCE printers allows them to meet and exceed the needs of today's work environments, while uniFLOW Online makes it simple for hybrid workplaces to streamline and enhance their workflows. We extend our congratulations to Canon for the well-deserved A3 Line of the Year Award, as well as the numerous Pick Awards."
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Original text here: https://businesstechnologyassociation.growthzoneapp.com/news/Details/canon-set-to-launch-multifunction-device-remanufacturing-business-in-the-united-states-as-part-of-global-rollout-318076
[Category: Business]
AARP Report: Older Americans Plan More Travel in 2026 as They Embrace AI and Deal Hunting
WASHINGTON, March 11 (TNSrep) -- AARP issued the following news release:
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New AARP Report: Older Americans Plan More Travel in 2026 as They Embrace AI and Deal Hunting
Older travelers plan nearly four trips in 2026 and are increasingly using rewards, comparison shopping and AI tools to stretch travel budgets.
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Older Americans are planning for a big year of travel in 2026 despite persistent cost concerns, according to new AARP research. The latest Travel Trends report shows travelers age 50 and older are not only planning nearly four trips, but also embracing new tools, including AI,
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, March 11 (TNSrep) -- AARP issued the following news release:
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New AARP Report: Older Americans Plan More Travel in 2026 as They Embrace AI and Deal Hunting
Older travelers plan nearly four trips in 2026 and are increasingly using rewards, comparison shopping and AI tools to stretch travel budgets.
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Older Americans are planning for a big year of travel in 2026 despite persistent cost concerns, according to new AARP research. The latest Travel Trends report shows travelers age 50 and older are not only planning nearly four trips, but also embracing new tools, including AI,to stretch their travel dollars further than ever.
The latest findings show that nearly two thirds (64%) of adults age 50-plus expect to travel in 2026, continuing the strong demand seen in recent years. Actual travel once again outpaced expectations in 2025: Older adults took an average of 4.2 trips, compared with the 3.6 they had originally planned. Looking ahead, travelers anticipate taking 3.9 trips in 2026.
A notable shift this year is the rapid rise in technology assisted planning. The share of older adults using AI tools to find travel deals has doubled--from 8% to 16%--as more travelers turn to digital tools to stretch their budgets and make smarter decisions.
"Even with cost pressures, adults 50-plus are finding creative ways to keep exploring, whether that's using rewards, shopping for deals, or turning to AI for smarter trip planning," said Carey Kyler, Sr. Director of Consumer Insights at AARP Services, Inc. "For many older Americans, travel is how they stay connected to the people who matter most."
More major findings from the survey include:
* 86% of adults age 50-plus say travel is a top discretionary spending priority, and more than half of their 2026 trips were already booked or planned by the end of 2025.
* Cost remains the biggest barrier for older travelers. About 45% are concerned about high airfare, and 39% cite cost overall, including 49% of those with annual incomes under $100,000.
* Older adults are budget conscious. 89% shop for bargains, and more than half used loyalty rewards or discounts on recent trips.
* Use of AI tools for travel planning has doubled in one year, rising from 8% to 16% as travelers look for the best available deals.
* Family travel continues to lead leisure priorities, with 57% motivated by time with loved ones and one in four trips including three generations.
AARP Travel, a valuable resource for Americans 50-plus, who spend over $236 billion annually in leisure travel, provides expert travel advice, the latest news and travel insights. AARP.org/travel has a wealth of articles available to anyone on vacation ideas, travel tips, and destinations to make travel simple.
The annual AARP Travel Trends survey examines the travel behaviors, expectations, and motivations among adults 50-plus - this year with a sample size of 1,189 respondents. View the full 2026 survey results here (https://www.aarp.org/pri/topics/social-leisure/travel/2026-travel-trends/).
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About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the 125 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/espanol or follow @AARP, @AARPLatino and @AARPadvocates on social media.
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Original text here: https://www.aarp.org/press/releases/2026-03-10-aarp-travel-trends-2026/
[Category: Sociological]
11 New Standard Partners Join MRAA
BROOKLYN PARK, Minnesota, March 11 -- The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas issued the following news:
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11 New Standard Partners Join MRAA
The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) announced that 11 companies made a commitment to the association as Standard Partners through the end of January. The addition of these companies expands the network of organizations that support the marine industry and the retailers who serve boaters.
MRAA's Partner Membership Program provides companies across the boating ecosystem with opportunities to connect with marine retailers,
... Show Full Article
BROOKLYN PARK, Minnesota, March 11 -- The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas issued the following news:
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11 New Standard Partners Join MRAA
The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) announced that 11 companies made a commitment to the association as Standard Partners through the end of January. The addition of these companies expands the network of organizations that support the marine industry and the retailers who serve boaters.
MRAA's Partner Membership Program provides companies across the boating ecosystem with opportunities to connect with marine retailers,support dealership success and contribute to the long-term strength of the industry. Standard Partners participate in MRAA initiatives, benefit from industry insights and contribute to dealer-focused solutions throughout the year.
January 2026 Standard Partner Members
* Chester River Consulting: Amarketing and data solutions firm based in Stevensville, Md., CRC has recently extended its expertise to marine. The company, with 20 years of experience in automotive and powersports, specializes in dealer-focused strategies like digital advertising, retention programs and analytics to drive measurable growth in sales, service and customer loyalty.
* American Boating: American Boating, founded in 2009 and based in Los Angeles, specializes in powerboat training and education through hands-on courses, online classes and industry-recognized certifications. The organization provides best-in-class curricula, experienced instructors and community resources to help boaters build skills and navigate waterways safely and confidently.
* Drive Outdoors: The Maryland-based marketing technology company focuses on helping dealerships increase sales and service performance. With more than a decade of experience, the company delivers data-driven advertising solutions, marketing automation and transparent reporting to boost lot traffic, inventory turnover and customer engagement.
* Unishippers: A leading third-party logistics provider headquartered in Dallas, Unishippers offers small package shipping, LTL freight and full truckload services to businesses nationwide. With decades of experience and a network of top carriers, the company focuses on delivering cost-effective shipping solutions, personalized support and technology tools that simplify logistics for growing businesses.
* E H20 Marine Solutions: E H2O Marine Business Solutions focuses on helping marine dealers improve finance and insurance (F&I) operations through personalized training and best practices. With 20 years of boating industry experience, the Sarasota, Fla., company provides coaching, compliance guidance and process optimization to boost dealer profitability and customer satisfaction. President Estephanie Herrera is on the MRAA Young Leaders Advisory Council (YLAC).
* Genesis Marine Technologies: Genesis Marine Technologies, based in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., develops advanced electrical systems and smart power solutions for the marine industry. With years of engineering expertise, the company focuses on innovative energy management, lithium battery technology and integrated systems that improve efficiency and reliability for boat builders and owners.
* Advancy: Headquartered in Paris with offices in major global cities, Advancy is a strategy consulting firm specializing in growth, differentiation and operational excellence. With expertise across sectors like chemicals, life sciences, healthcare and consumer goods, Advancy delivers fact-based strategies and implementation support to create measurable impact for clients worldwide.
* MarineSource: MarineSource operates an AI-powered online marketplace featuring tens of thousands of boat listings and providing marketing and MLS services for dealers and brokers. With decades of combined experience in marine and technology, the Jacksonville, Florida-based company specializes in connecting buyers and sellers through advanced search tools and dealer-focused solutions.
* Delv Media: Delv Media, part of Unshackled Management Group, is a digital marketing and business development agency founded in 2011. The company, located in Colorado Springs, Colo., specializes in services like SEO, social media marketing, lead generation and website development, helping businesses bring products to market and improve sales performance.
* GORIDE Rentals: GORIDE Rentals offers premium boat and watercraft rental services designed for convenience and adventure on the water. Based in Miami, Fla., the company focuses on delivering easy booking, well-maintained vessels and personalized experiences to help customers enjoy boating without ownership hassles.
* BoatCrazy: Based in St. Louis, Mo., BoatCrazy is an online marketplace that connects boat buyers and sellers nationwide. The platform offers dealer advertising solutions, lead-generation tools and extensive listings to make buying and selling boats simple and cost-effective.
Diverse Expertise Powering Dealer Success
From global strategy firms to digital marketing innovators and marine technology specialists, MRAA's newest Standard Partners bring a wide range of expertise and solutions to help dealers improve, adapt and flourish.
"These new partnerships bring solutions that help boat dealers become more successful," said Liz Keener, MRAA Senior Director of Partnerships. "As MRAA Partner Members, these companies are committed to addressing dealer pain points -- offering implementable products, programs and solutions -- and strengthening the resources that drive growth."
Additionally, dealer members are encouraged to explore the list of companies that actively support the MRAA across five partnership levels. View the complete list (https://mraa.com/partners/).
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About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA)
The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas is the trusted catalyst for success in the marine retail industry. Dedicated to fueling dealer growth and strengthening the boating experience, MRAA delivers industry-leading insights, expert guidance and proven solutions that assist marine retailers in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. Through education, advocacy and innovative resources, MRAA empowers dealers to thrive, and help drive a stronger more sustainable marine industry. Learn more at MRAA.com.
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Original text here: https://mraa.com/11-new-standard-partners-join-mraa/
[Category: Business]
