West Marine Seeks Charity Beneficiaries for Grand Opening of Virginia Beach Flagship Store

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WATSONVILLE, Calif. (July 24, 2013) – West Marine (Nasdaq:WMAR), the largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, announced their search for Hampton Roads marine-based non-profits to be the beneficiaries of the “Cruising for a Cause” charity celebration set for Thursday, September 12, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The festivities will take place during West Marine’s Grand Opening of its flagship store at 4000 Virginia Beach Blvd, Suite 100, Virginia Beach, VA.  In keeping with the company’s mission of conserving marine habitats and supporting local boating and fishing non-profits across the country—West Marine is eager to work with Hampton Roads-area charities that serve the local boating, fishing, sailing, paddling and marine environmental community.

One hundred percent of the proceeds from ticket sales to the “Cruising for a Cause” event go to the local charities.  West Marine holds similar events around the country that help charities as varied as local youth boating programs, beach clean-ups, and organizations that preserve local marine life among others.

For the $10 ticket “Cruising for a Cause” attendees will receive food, beverages and entertainment provided by West Marine.  For full details on how to apply to participate in “Cruising for a Cause” send an inquiry via e-mail to grantsandsponsorships@westmarine.com.

About West Marine

West Marine, Inc. is the largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, with nearly 300 company-operated stores located in 38 states, Puerto Rico, Canada and five franchised stores located in Turkey. Founded in 1968 by a sailor, West Marine has grown to become a leading omni-channel retailer for boats and boaters – from power cruisers and sailors to anglers and paddle sports enthusiasts. West Marine also offers gear, apparel and footwear for anyone who enjoys recreational time on or around the water. The company’s Port Supply division is one of the largest wholesale distributors of marine equipment serving boat manufacturers, marine services, commercial vessel operators and government agencies. For more information on West Marine, Inc. its products and store locations, visit westmarine.com or call 1-800-BOATING (1-800-262-8464). West Marine’s stock is traded on NASDAQ under the symbol WMAR.

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