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Winning in the Marine Aftermarket
At Freeport Marine Supply, deep inventory, technical know-how and a growing online business help a third-generation retailer compete.
By David Conway | Trade Only Today | April 2026
Industry Feature: Winning in the Marine Aftermarket
Market Dynamics
The marine aftermarket moves fast. Retailers juggle inventory across multiple sales channels and shipping platforms. Customers increasingly expect overnight delivery of everything from bilge pumps to electronics, while economic conditions—tariffs, prices and supply chains—can change overnight.
Justin Ross has spent his career navigating that volatility at Freeport Marine Supply on New York's Long Island. Founded in 1939 by Ross's grandfather, Arthur Ross, Freeport Marine Supply grew from a small storefront serving local boaters into a multichannel equipment supplier.
Established 1939: Founded by Arthur Ross
Our Legacy
Today, Freeport Marine Supply employs 15 people and generates more than half its revenue from online sales. Justin Ross's father, Irwin, took over operations in the 1970s, and Justin assumed leadership about a decade ago.
"Customers usually aren't buying a product. They're solving a problem."
"If we're taking care of the customer, everything else usually works out," says Ross.
Present Day: A Local Legend in Freeport, NY
Efficiency & Agility
Independent retailers like Freeport Marine face competition from national chains, but Ross says independents still have an edge. "As an independent operator, our advantage is agility," he says. "We can make meaningful operational changes in days, not quarters."
The company uses nearly every available space for inventory storage, ensuring immediate fulfillment during peak seasons when there can be no delays.
Industry Authority: Trade Only Today
Local Ties
Local roots remain a major competitive advantage. The business has built deep generational ties, supporting local fishing and boating clubs for over 87 years.
"We've been in the same location in Freeport for 87 years," Ross says. "We're members of our local Chamber of Commerce and support Power Squadrons, fishing and boating clubs."
The Complete Feature: April 2026 Issue
Looking Ahead
One major driver of aftermarket growth is the aging boat fleet. "Boats are staying in service longer, which naturally increases demand for replacement parts, upgrades and retrofits," Ross explains.
For Freeport Marine, the fundamental goal remains unchanged after nearly nine decades: keeping people on the water.