PHOTO COURTESY WICHARD

Sailing equipment manufacturer Wichard Group yesterday announced that it acquired Australian sailboat hardware company Ronstan.

Headquartered in Braeside, Victoria, Ronstan is known for blocks, winches, track systems and other equipment for sailing, boating and water sports.

“With Ronstan becoming part of the Wichard Group, we have achieved a major milestone in the development of our strategy as a manufacturer and seller to the global marine and safety sectors,” Wichard president Jean-Claude Ibos said in a statement. “We are now in a position to meet the needs and expectations of our customers worldwide with a comprehensive range of products and expertise. This strengthens the consistency of our positioning based on performance and safety.”

With the acquisition, the Wichard Group now has more than 550 employees worldwide and a turnover of €100 million ($107 million). According to the statement, the acquisition provides the opportunity to strengthen the group’s position by offering a comprehensive product range, including aluminum and carbon masts, sail furlers, deck fittings, safety equipment and ropes. It will now include a range of winches, tracks, blocks and other accessories.