MDL Marinas community initiatives are changing what it means to operate a marina in 2025. From loyalty schemes and fitness clubs to youth engagement and tenant support, MDL’s strategy focuses on people not just pontoons.
On a recent episode of From Pitch to Pontoon, Tim Mayer, Sales & Marketing Director at MDL Marinas, joined us to explain how these initiatives create long-term value across the marine industry. His insights show how MDL builds connections between customers, tenants, and communities.
Supporting Tenants and Visitors Alike
One of the most impactful MDL Marinas community initiatives is the way they support on-site businesses.
“What our tenants are seeing is a better mix and cross-pollination of people buying their services… really building something which helps everyone.” – Tim Mayer
The OTIUM loyalty scheme allows berth holders and visitors to earn points for spending at MDL locations. They can use these points on fuel, yard work, dining, and more. It’s a flexible system that encourages repeat visits and deeper engagement.
“If you’re birthed at a competitor… if you come and use the yard, you’re going to get 14% of that back,” Tim added.
To date, OTIUM has more than 29,000 users and a 63% points redemption rate — clear proof that customers see real value.
Connecting with Local Communities
MDL’s community impact goes well beyond boating. They work with local clubs, schools, and youth groups to make marinas more open and welcoming.
“We support Romsey Rugby Club… we help things like Hamble Sea Scouts… we’ve got Scouts all across the estate.”
These MDL Marinas community initiatives give young people early access to sailing, rowing, and waterside activities — often without the need for boat ownership. That helps nurture interest and builds a pipeline for the next generation of marine professionals and enthusiasts.
MDL Fitness: Turning Marina Space into Community Assets
Another standout example is MDL Fitness, a gym based at Queen Anne’s Battery in Plymouth. This facility gives locals a new reason to visit the marina — and tenants another source of footfall.
“Now the gym’s got 500 members… and the kinetic energy from the cardio kit is going back into the grid.” The gym also supports other community programmes. For example, MDL created a gig rowing club at the same site, and members now use the gym for training.
Creating Value Across the Ecosystem
All of these efforts connect back to a bigger vision. MDL wants to create marinas that serve entire communities — not just berth holders.
“It’s what you can add to that, and the experience that you can put onto the customer.”
These MDL Marinas community initiatives are helping to strengthen relationships across the board. Customers stay longer. Tenants benefit from increased engagement. And local communities see marinas as part of their world, not something separate from it.