The International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) brought the global marine community together in Tampa, Florida, from October 7–9. For AkzoNobel Yacht Coatings, it was a standout event that highlighted the team’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence across the marine coatings industry.

A strong presence at the heart of the industry

Across booths 3-923, 3-925, and 3-1022, the team welcomed visitors to explore the latest developments in coating technology and sustainability.

As proud sponsors of the IBEX Industry Breakfast, we welcomed attendees to a dynamic morning of insights and celebration. The event featured engaging presentations on the current economic landscape, along with recognition of the outstanding individuals and companies driving innovation in the marine industry.

The morning concluded with an electrifying keynote by Kevin O’Connor, Emmy Award-winning host of PBS’s This Old House and Ask This Old House, who delivered a powerful message on the importance of adaptability and attracting talent in today’s evolving marketplace.
 

Watch the highlights

Relive our time at IBEX 2025 with a quick look at the event’s key moments, featuring the AkzoNobel Yacht Coatings team in action.

Recognized for industry leadership

During the show, AkzoNobel received the EPIC Award for Training from Soundings Trade Only. The award celebrates companies that are shaping the future of the marine industry through exceptional, purposeful, innovative, and compassionate initiatives.

This recognition highlights AkzoNobel’s ongoing investment in technical excellence and customer partnership, providing hands-on education, product training, and digital learning tools that help ensure best-in-class coating performance.

In conversation with Metan Marine

A highlight of the event was an interview with Mike Borrelli, founder of Metan Marine, who shared his journey from restoring boats in a backyard shed to leading one of the United States’ most respected yacht restoration companies.

For nearly 30 years, Mike and his team have trusted Awlgrip coatings to achieve flawless finishes on some of the world’s most exclusive vessels. From Awlcraft® 2000 to the latest Awlcraft® 3000, Metan Marine continues to rely on Awlgrip’s durability, gloss, and consistency.

“Awlgrip has been with us from day one. It’s more than a product, it’s a partnership that allows us to deliver the best possible results for our customers,” said Mike.

Driving the industry forward

From sponsorship and storytelling to product innovation and industry recognition, AkzoNobel Yacht Coatings’ presence at IBEX 2025 reflected a continued commitment to innovation, education, and long-term partnerships within the marine coatings community.