Business and environment news : West Marine Announces Its Fourth Annual Blue Future Sustainability Report

Achieved 17.5% Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions

WATSONVILLE, Calif., July 8, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- West Marine (Nasdaq:WMAR), the world's largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, has released its BlueFuture(R) 2012 Sustainability Report. BlueFuture(R) encompasses West Marine's company-wide efforts focusing on sustainability, including improving and protecting the marine environments, reducing the company's carbon footprint and encouraging people to enjoy being out on the water.

From Pure Oceans, the company's private label brand of "green" boating products that are better for the user and the environment, to giving millions of dollars in grants over the years to marine-based non-profits -- West Marine continues to demonstrate its commitment to preserving our waters and ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy our marine resources. The report details West Marine's progress towards reducing greenhouse gases, commitments and partnerships to cultivate healthy waterways and fisheries, and support of youth boating programs.

"There is no company in the U.S. that has a bigger impact on boating than West Marine," said Matt Hyde, CEO of West Marine. "It's a privileged position, and with privilege comes great responsibility. Across the board, we've made significant progress towards our mission to 'conserve marine resources, reduce our impact on the environment and promote boating,' but there's more work to do," commented Hyde.

Some of the highlights from West Marine's 2012 Sustainability Report:
-- West Marine was named in Forbes' Top 100 Most Trustworthy Companies in America for the second year in a row
 -- Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reduction of 4.29% YOY. Over 17.5% GHG reduction since 2007 baseline
 -- 531 grants fulfilled in 2012, bringing the cumulative donation since 1994 for youth boating, boating safety and marine conservation to $4,946,533
 -- Donated 2,500 life jackets
 -- Saved more than $1,815,000 in utility costs since 2007 vs. business as usual scenario
-- "Green Product of the Year" honorees included Attwood's Fuel Demand Valve and CFA Eco, the world's first copper-free, water-based antifouling bottom paint

"At West Marine we are working to be great at sustainability. The road will not be easy, but by working together we can help create a more sustainable future," said Hyde. Learn more about West Marine's sustainability program and read the BlueFuture(R) 2012 Sustainability Report at www.westmarine.com/bluefuture

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., and 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.

CONTACT: MEDIA CONTACTS: Laurie Fried West Marine 831.761.6944

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