Riccardo Verde of Schenker Watermakers Elected President of the Recreational Boating Section of Confindustria Napoli

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Confindustria Napoli has entrusted engineer Riccardo Verde, Managing Director of Schenker Watermakers, with the leadership of the newly established Recreational Boating Section, at a strategic moment for the city of Naples, marked by the awarding of the America’s Cup 2027 and the designation of Naples as Sea Capital 2027.

The new Section has been created with the aim of strengthening the Nautical Industry supply chain by promoting investment, infrastructure development, and the growth of the maritime business ecosystem. Among the priorities outlined by the newly elected President are dialogue with institutions, coordination with Confindustria Nautica, and support for the sector’s key themes: internationalization, sustainability, Marine Innovation, and tourist port development.

Objectives

Significant attention will be devoted to enhancing infrastructure for small and medium-sized Recreational Boating activities, including the redevelopment of the Bagnoli area following the America’s Cup, with the goal of increasing services and berthing capacity and promoting Campania as an international destination for boating and maritime tourism.

Professional training will also be a central pillar of the program, addressing the growing difficulty companies face in recruiting qualified personnel. Collaboration with schools, ITS academies, universities, and training centers is planned to encourage young people to pursue careers in the Nautical Industry and maritime professions.

The Section will also focus on Marine Innovation, digitalization, energy efficiency, cybersecurity, and the Blue Economy, supporting companies through technological transition processes and facilitating access to funding opportunities. B2B meetings, thematic working groups, and networking initiatives are also planned to strengthen synergies among businesses in the sector.

Special attention will also be given to sea-related sporting events and the possible revival of a regional Boat Show. Although different in nature, both initiatives are regarded as strategic tools for promoting the region, enhancing Tourist Ports, and supporting the growth of Campania’s Recreational Boating industry.

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