Cascade Bank Helps Performance Marine Navigate Today's Economic Waters

Listed by "Northwest Boat Travel" guidebook as "one of the most appealing destinations on the Northwest coast," the Port of Everett is a boater's haven. Not far away from both Seattle and the beautiful San Juan Islands, the port is home to boats belonging to thousands of local boating enthusiasts. On a clear day you can see dozens of vessels in the water, and dozens of empty boat trailers with "I'd rather be fishing" bumper stickers parked at the boat launch. Some are out with crab pots, some with fishing poles, and others can be seen raising their sails for a jaunt around Whidbey Island.

Boating is a big deal in the Puget Sound Area and Performance Marine owner Bill Hook knows it. For the last 20 years his company has been taking care of boating devotees from all over the region. If anyone knows boats, it's Bill.

Bill started the business with his brother offering engine and mechanical repair service, then began in 1990 selling new "boats from quality-oriented companies." The business has since expanded into parts, accessories and storage space at their location which is conveniently positioned next to the public boat launch. "Our service is a major part of our business. When someone buys a boat from us they're also looking for someone to take care of them and we provide that," said Bill. "I provide a product, take care of the customer and keep the customer happy so they'll come back. Customer loyalty is very important."

Service is at the heart of Cascade's approach, too. “We've had a very long-term relationship with Cascade Bank," Bill said. "They take care of us and if anything comes up they're always there to take care of the problem." When Performance Marine was having problems with a new credit card processing company, Bill called business banker Mike Spencer to resolve the issues. The bank went to considerable lengths to work out the problem and get Bill into a better program. "They worked it out for me. To have a bank make a change for a small business is a big deal."

Cascade Bank has worked with Bill to solve a range of financial needs. “Bill has a broad relationship with us and is a great customer," said Mike. "We provide a little bit of everything for them, like checking accounts, a Line of Credit, merchant services and we even helped finance the repair of their parking lot." Cascade offers the peace of mind with banking that allows Performance Marine to focus their time on their business — like preparing for upcoming boat shows in Seattle and Tacoma.

If you catch the boater's bug — an easy thing to do in this beautiful region — look for Performance Marine's booth when you go to the boat show. They can help you with your boating needs and service. If you're looking for attentive service from a business banker, call Mike Spencer at Cascade Bank right away.