SMIA with a new team and a clear development plan for the Slovenian maritime industry

Tue - June 17, 2025  |  A+ | a-
On Wednesday, 11 June 2025, the newly elected Management Board of the Slovenian Marine Industries Association – SMIA, E.I.G., held its inaugural session at Marina Portorož. The session marks a major step in the revitalisation of the Association and the launch of an ambitious strategic period 2025–2029.

New Management Board Composition


Members of the new Management Board are:
  • Matjaž Murko (President, Mennyacht d.o.o.)
  • Matjaž Pavlinjek (Roto Group d.o.o.)
  • Tone Britovšek (Marina Master)
  • Miha Zupanc (Marina Portorož d.o.o.)
  • Vladimir Zinchenko (Greenline)
  • Fiorenzo Lupieri (Director of the Revitalisation Project)
Board and Association's Vice Presidents: Matjaž Pavlinjek and Tone Britovšek.

Clear Vision and Systematic Organisation


At the inaugural meeting, the Board confirmed a clear vision for 2025–2029, focusing on stronger member integration, internationalisation of Slovenia’s nautical economy, and professional organisation.
Key decisions included establishing an operational SMIA office to coordinate activities, support members, and implement the programme.
A detailed financial and operational programme for 2025–2026 was also approved, targeting revitalisation, international promotion, and institutional cooperation.
A key task will be the creation and maintenance of a comprehensive database of relevant companies, partners, and stakeholders in the marine and nautical industry.

Four Thematic Sections Established

 
  • Marinas and Nautical Tourism (Head: Miha Zupanc)
  • Boatbuilders (Head: Janja Cerar, Greenline – SVP Avio d.o.o.)
  • Equipment Manufacturers (Head: Matjaž Pavlinjek)
  • Boat Sales and Charter (Head: Matjaž Murko)
     

EBI Membership Reactivation and International Fairs


The Board confirmed reactivation of SMIA’s membership in EBI – European Boating Industry. SMIA will take part in METS Amsterdam 2025 and is planning collective appearances at Düsseldorf, Tulln, and Venice boat shows in 2026.

Honorary Membership Awarded to Japec Jakopin


In recognition of his lifetime achievements and contribution to the founding of the Association, Japec Jakopin was unanimously appointed as an honorary member of the SMIA Board.

Invitation to Join


SMIA continues its membership campaign. The goal for 2025 is to reach 50 active member companies committed to shaping the future of Slovenia’s nautical sector.
 
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