CLIENT SPOTLIGHT
Johnston’s Marine Services
Navigating Growth on South Florida’s Gold Coast with BBIF
DEMOGRAPHIC
Marine Services / Boat Repair & Maintenance
LOCATION
Pompano Beach, Florida
Anchored in Pompano Beach, Johnston’s Marine Services has been a trusted name in South Florida’s boating community since 2013. Co-owners Neil and Shayla Johnston combine world-class technical expertise with sharp business leadership to deliver reliable repair and maintenance for recreational powerboats and yachts across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties—better known as the Florida Gold Coast. Their journey is proof that with expertise, determination, and the right support, small businesses can overcome obstacles and thrive in even the most competitive industries.
LOAN PROGRAM
Working Capital
THE CHALLENGE
Balancing Success with Strain
From the very beginning, Neil and Shayla proved to be the perfect team—Neil leading the hands-on technical work while Shayla managed operations and strategy. Within just a year, they transformed Johnston’s Marine Services from a part-time venture into a full-time operation, quickly earning a reputation for excellence along the Gold Coast.
But with rapid growth came new challenges. The company faced steep monthly debt obligations—including high-interest debt payments that put pressure on cash flow. At the same time, demand for their specialized services continued to rise, creating the need for an additional technician and upgraded equipment to meet customer expectations. Without financial backing, Johnston’s Marine risked being weighed down by debt while missing the chance to expand its reach in the thriving boating market.
THE SOLUTION
Charting a New Course with BBIF
Determined to keep moving forward, Johnston Marine Services turned to BBIF. Recognizing the company’s potential, BBIF provided a capital injection that not only consolidated high-interest debt—relieving financial strain and freeing up cash for growth—but also supplied the working capital needed to expand operations.
With this investment, Johnston Marine Services gained the ability to hire an additional technician and purchase new equipment, empowering Neil and his team to take on more projects, finish them faster, and serve a growing client base. Meanwhile, Shayla had the breathing room to sharpen operations and refine long-term strategy, strengthening the business’s foundation and preparing it for expansion across South Florida’s boating community.
“We immediately connected with BBIF’s mission to help small businesses thrive. From our very first introduction, we felt confident that partnering with BBIF would be the right choice. The BBIF Gateway Portal made the application process seamless and organized, while also keeping communication clear every step of the way. The underwriting and closing team was informative, supportive, and truly great to work with.”
Neil & Shayla Johnston
Co-owners
THE IMPACT
Smooth Sailing Ahead
BBIF’s investment has set Johnston’s Marine Services on a course for long-term growth. With debt consolidated, new resources in place, and an expanded team, the company can continue to improve turnaround times, enhance customer satisfaction, and increase its capacity to serve more clients.
Beyond the numbers, this partnership gave Johnston Marine Service the confidence to pursue their vision with renewed energy. Johnston’s Marine Services isn’t just keeping yachts and powerboats running at peak performance—it is charting a clear course toward expansion, stronger client relationships, and a more resilient future.
