FORT LAUDERDALE — Zodiac Nautic, the world’s oldest and largest manufacturer of RIBs and inflatables, said Thursday at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show that the industry and consumers should expect a significant revival of the venerable brand.
“Zodiac is a wonderful brand. I am no miracle worker, but Zodiac is a sleeping giant,” said CEO Dominique Heber-Suffrin, who assumed ownership with partners in July after years of financial trouble for the iconic French builder.
Heber-Suffrin said the U.S. market accounts for 40 percent of Zodiac’s global business and that under his leadership “accelerated growth here in the U.S.” will be a priority.
Zodiac has manufacturing plants in France, Tunisia and South Carolina.
Heber-Suffrin promised new-boat introductions at the Miami International Boat Show in February, a renewed marketing campaign, new incentive programs for consumers and a reintroduction of the Avon brand.
