June Business of the Month: Spend-A-Day Marina

​Spend-A-Day Marina is a Logan County icon that’s been making waves for 75 years! The business began in 1950 as a humble aluminum boat rental operation, the brainchild of William “Bill” Reed, a man with a simple but powerful vision: make water recreation affordable and accessible. With Indian Lake offering the perfect location – especially given its proximity to Lima – Bill turned his dream into reality, launching what would grow into one of the region’s most respected marine businesses.

Over the years, the company has expanded far beyond boat rentals. From selling outboard engines to showcasing industry-leading boat brands in two expansive showrooms, Spend-A-Day has evolved into a full-service marina that Central Ohio boaters have come to rely on.

And they didn’t stop there. With locations once spanning Columbus, Lake Cumberland, and even Florida, Spend-A-Day Marina has made its mark well beyond Logan County, but its heart remains right here at Indian Lake.

Now in its third generation, Spend-A-Day remains a family-run business – and it's clear that family values ripple through the entire team. With more than 40 employees, many have been with the company for over 15 years, including the Service Manager and Fixed Operations Manager – who have each dedicated three decades to helping boaters enjoy the lake life.
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Spend-A-Day truly offers everything a boater could need:

• A fleet of 20 rental boats
• A full-service department right on the water
• Summer and winter boat storage
• A marina with a fuel pier
• Dock rentals
• A resort-style home community
• And two large showrooms filled with the industry's best brands

Year after year, Spend-A-Day earns top ratings from their manufacturers for Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) scores, demonstrating their commitment to excellence. But for this team, success isn’t just about business metrics – it’s about community. More than just a business, Spend-A-Day is a vibrant part of the Indian Lake experience – where lifelong memories are launched right from the docks.

Most people think the boating business shuts down in winter, but that is not the case! “The truth is, there’s no down season anymore in the marine business” says Monica Hurst, General Manager (and Bill’s granddaughter).
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In the off-season, staff switch gears – literally. Sales teams help with winterization, the service department pitches in on boat show prep, and every season becomes a team-wide effort. “We have a hat rack – and we all just switch hats depending on the season,” Monica jokes.

Spend-A-Day also hosts one of the region’s longest-running boat shows. Now in its 68th year, the event – always held the first full weekend in March – attracts over 5,000 visitors to the showrooms and the surrounding community. It’s a celebration of boating, but also a major economic driver for local businesses. The Boat Show marks an unofficial Spring opening of boating season!

Monica’s advice to those just starting out? “Persevere. Blood, sweat, and tears are part of the equation to success.” It's a message only someone who’s weathered storms, literal and figurative, can deliver with such authenticity.

After navigating challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, aquatic vegetation issues, and even a tornado, the team is focused on celebrating their incredible 75th anniversary. It’s a milestone that underscores not just their longevity, but their resilience. After all these years, the Spend-A-Day team is most of all grateful to be able to still do what they love – serving their boating family and their amazing community.
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Please join us in congratulating Spend-A-Day Marina – a business built on legacy, anchored in family, and powered by a passion for the water – as the Logan County Chamber June 2025 Business of the Month!