Manatee boat firm motors to Africa, Middle East

MANATEE COUNTY — Hann Powerboats, a local boat firm, has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Commerce for expanding its sales outside the U.S.

The south Manatee County-based company, according to a release, will receive the Export Achievement Certificate from the International Trade Administration. The award is because the firm “aggressively pursued markets in Africa and the Middle East,” states the ITA, a division of the Commerce Department. New markets Hann is now in include Nigeria, Cameroon and Saudi Arabia.

U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Longboat Key, will present the certificate to Hann Powerboats President Russell Hann and Vice President Kevin McLaughlin at a ceremony scheduled for March 18, according to the release. The award, created in 2001, recognizes small and medium-sized businesses that have entered the international marketplace for the first time or that have successfully entered a new market. The award program is designed to showcase “the important role that exporting plays in our national economy,” the release states.

Hann Powerboats manufactures large military-style boats. Clients in the U.S. include military branches and private customers.