The new My-Villages “Innovation Partner” program represents a first-of-its-kind marine industry initiative, launched in partnership with major industry yacht manufacturer, Hinckley Co., yesterday. The Hinckley Co. is the first strategic partner of My-Villages, Inc., which will comprise a limited number of boat builders, service yards as well as marine equipment manufacturers, all of whom are committed to leveraging the latest technology to bring new and innovative ways to connect, communicate and cooperate with their customers so they, in turn, can better manage and operate their vessels.

“At Hinckley we are known for our technological advancements in boat building and are committed to delivering the same level of innovation to the service industry,” said James McManus, chief executive officer of The Hinckley Co. “We recognize that to stay competitive and continue to be a leader in the marine industry, companies must engage with customers on a more proactive, expeditious and modern manner. With My-Villages, companies no longer need to accept the status quo for product service. As the first company to pioneer the My-Villages Innovation Partner program, we share the desire to utilize digital technology so that our customers can improve the ownership experience and be better informed about to how to operate and maintain their boats.”

Added My-Villages Founder and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Hutchison, “Hinckley has a long history as an innovator in many areas including fiberglass hull construction, deck layout, and the JetStick, as well as an excellent reputation for delivering high quality service.  We are honored to welcome Hinckley as the first My-Villages Innovation Partner in the yacht manufacturer category. We’re looking forward to working closely with the Hinckley leadership team and its eight service yards to enable better connection, communication and collaboration for their boat owners and service customers across the United States.”

As its network, online community and mobile solutions are enhanced and expanded, all of My-Villages’ Innovation Partners (MVIPs) will have a direct line into the company’s product development requirements and service capabilities. Product function requests from MVIPs will take the highest priority and all MVIPs will have first view and access to future releases of services to test and the opportunity to provide direct feedback.

At the 2012 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, My-Villages debuted its first digital village with a focus on the boating industry. This comprehensive website offers a revolutionary online destination where boat owners, boat builders and other marine service providers can connect in a free digital community, or village. By streamlining the user experience, My-Villages will connect boat owners to the manufacturers that build their boats; the service providers that support them; other mariners who share their passion; and the necessary information that allows them to better operate, maintain and enjoy their boats.