Pontoon manufacturer Premier Marine has received the 2007 Marine Manufacturer of the Year Award by the Minnesota-based North Central Marine Association. The NCMA is an advocacy organization representing more than 70 dealers, manufacturers and marinas throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin.

"We're honored to be chosen as this year's recipient," says Premier president Bob Menne, "The NCMA is a great advocate for the industry, and Premier is proud to be a member."

The award is presented every three years to a recreational marine manufacturer that excels in product quality and innovation, and lives up to a high industry standard of fair and honest business practices.

Premier was recognized as this year's winner at a Dec. 3 ceremony in Plymouth, Minn.

Premier Marine employs more than 230 workers to design, build and market 12 models of luxury pontoons, and holds many patents on manufacturing elements such as furniture hinges and J-Clip rail fasteners. The 16-year-old, family owned and operated company sells its pontoons through boat dealers located throughout the United States and Canada. Premier is headquartered in Wyoming, Minn.