German builder HanseYachts announced plans for a strategic ownership transition as entrepreneur Andreas Müller moves to acquire a majority stake from long-time shareholder Aurelius Group. The proposed deal also involves CEO Hanjo Runde joining the shareholder group.
The proposed agreement is based on a signed term sheet and is pending further negotiations with key stakeholders, including the regional government, financing banks and the works council. The moves come “in view of current global challenges,” a company statement said. “It is also conducting discussions regarding an adjustment of production capacities due to global market uncertainties.”
“With family entrepreneur Andreas Müller, we would gain a sustainably minded partner who can support our strategy in the long term,” Runde said in the statement. “We will do everything we can to find responsible solutions together with the state, the banks and the works council, and will shape the upcoming transformation with the greatest possible transparency and responsibility.”
HanseYachts reported a strong first quarter with €41 million ($45 million) in revenue, a 12% EBITDA margin and €2 million ($2.25 million) in profit. Still, macroeconomic headwinds, soft demand in key markets, including the United States and Germany, and ongoing geopolitical tensions have led to a cautious outlook, the statement said.
