Capricorn has always evolved alongside the way our Members do business, responding to how workshops and service businesses operate day to day. Over time, that has meant supporting Members across a range of work that often extends beyond automotive alone, both in business and outside of work.
For many Members, marine is already part of that picture. Whether it sits alongside automotive work, leisure or forms a natural extension of the services they offer.
Which is why we’re introducing dedicated marine Preferred Suppliers to support the way Members already work, providing access to the right products, services and expertise for marine through the same trusted Capricorn network Members rely on every day.
Australia’s boating industry plays an important role in communities across the country. With nearly one in ten Australians holding a boat licence, the industry relies on a broad mix of workshops, technicians, suppliers and service businesses. Much of this work closely overlaps with how Capricorn Members already operate.
With nearly two‑thirds of Capricorn Members trading in the marine industry, this is about providing more of what Members already use — dedicated marine suppliers, relevant expertise and the same Capricorn benefits that support their broader business.
Introducing our marine specialised Preferred Suppliers
At the heart of Capricorn’s marine offering is a carefully selected group of marine‑focused Preferred Suppliers, chosen for their reputation, expertise and alignment with Capricorn’s standards. Together, they bring specialist marine capability into the Capricorn network, supporting Members who work in and around the marine industry every day.
One of the marine service providers joining the network is JPW Marine, a wholesale distributor specialising in marine hardware.
“Joining Capricorn has been a natural fit for JPW Marine,” says Adam Hunter, Marketing and Purchasing Manager at JPW Marine.
“Our customer base closely mirrors the Capricorn membership — hands‑on businesses across the marine and trade industries that rely on consistent, reliable supply. There’s a strong crossover with Members who service both automotive and marine, which makes the alignment a strong one.”
“Since coming on board, we’ve seen encouraging uptake from Members. Having Capricorn behind us also supports our plans to grow, particularly as we expand our presence on the east coast.”
This specialist group is supported by a broader network of Preferred Suppliers already well known to Members. Brands across automotive, electrical, consumables and general trade continue to play an important role in marine operations, creating a supplier offering that feels familiar, credible and practical for both specialist marine and everyday trade needs.
One Trade Account, expanded capability
Importantly, Capricorn’s marine offering builds on what Members already value most.
Marine suppliers are accessed through the same Capricorn Trade Account, with consolidated invoicing, monthly statements and the ability to earn Capricorn Rewards Points. There’s no change to the way Members trade — just more ways to use Capricorn to support your business.
For Members already active in marine, this support is being welcomed.
“Coming from an automotive background, I already understood what Capricorn offers and how that model works,” says Corey Baker, Sales, Marine Energy Systems.
“Marine and automotive are different industries, but there’s a lot of crossover in the parts and products we use. Seeing Capricorn bring that same approach into marine just made sense to us.”
When asked about the introduction of new marine Preferred Suppliers, Corey says speed and service are critical.
“If we don’t have something in stock, being able to say we can have it here this afternoon instead of in a week is huge,” he says. “That only works when suppliers understand how the industry operates and are set up to support that level of service.”
Capricorn Insurance Services: Supporting marine businesses beyond trade
Supporting marine businesses goes beyond purchasing alone. Alongside trade suppliers, Capricorn also helps Members manage risk through Capricorn Insurance Services (CIS).
Marine operations can involve unique exposures, from specialised equipment to on‑water activity and complex operating environments. Through CIS, Members can access insurance options suited to marine businesses, supported by a panel of experienced insurers and dedicated brokerage support.
CIS works with a range of well‑known marine insurers, including Club Marine, Nautilus Marine, Marinex and Coast Insurance, to name a few.
It’s another way Capricorn supports Members across the broader needs of their business, providing confidence not just in how they buy, but in how they operate and grow.
Staying on course
Strengthening support for Members in marine reflects Capricorn’s commitment to listening to Members and responding to how they operate.
For Members already trading in marine, this provides greater choice, specialist support and confidence that Capricorn is there to help keep their business on course.
Spread the Word
Do you know someone who works in the marine industry?
Capricorn Members are invited to spread the word by referring marine businesses to join the Capricorn Community. Speak to your Area Manager for more information.
