Groupe Beneteau says it plans to change the production focus of its Bordeaux shipyard, Construction Navale Bordeaux, so that it specializes in the construction of large multihulls. The company said in a statement that production of its sailing superyachts will be transferred to the Monfalcone site in Italy, which currently builds the Montecarlo line of superyachts. The transfer will take place in September.
Groupe Beneteau cited a “buoyant market environment for the multihull segment,” saying it is in line with its previously announced strategy of doubling multihull production capacity by 2020.
“Construction Navale Bordeaux will focus on building large multihulls for the Lagoon brand and the Excess brand,” the statement said. “This specialization is expected to make it possible to increase production capacity and improve industrial processes in order to deliver operational efficiency improvements.”
The company said it will spend about $3.07 million (2.75 million euros) to modify the Bordeaux facility and expects sales growth from the expansion to reach $11.7 million (10 million euros) in its next fiscal year. It expects to add 12 employees.
Regarding the move of its sailing superyachts to the Montecarlo facility, Groupe Beneteau said in the statement: “This Italian site is fully aligned with the requirements for this range of boats because it offers flexible industrial capabilities, calibrated for producing luxury units requiring high levels of customization, and small series.”
Groupe Beneteau said it would consult with the employees at its facilities before the plans go into operation.
