Chinese company to take 91.81% stake in Poole yard, in a deal set to close by mid-August
China’s Dalian Wanda Group confirmed today that is has inked a deal with Sunseeker to take a 91.81% shareholding in the company in an acquisition worth £320 million.
The Chinese company, which has interests in commercial property, tourism and hotels, said the deal is set to close by mid-August, and will see Sunseeker management take the remaining 8.19% of shares.
The purchase is part of a big investment in Britain by Dalian Wanda, which includes a real estate development in London and the building of a five-star hotel.
Wanda chairman Wang Jianlin, who owns a Predator 108, said: “Acquiring Sunseeker deepens Wanda’s international influence, further enhances our position in the global luxury, entertainment and tourism markets, and represents an important step forward for the overall development of our business.
“With the committed support of Wanda, Sunseeker is well placed to take full advantage of opportunities in China, one of the world’s fastest growing luxury yacht markets.”
Dalian Wanda eased concerns by confirming that Sunseeker would remain headquartered in Poole, and maintain its existing production bases and workforce.
Robert Braithwaite, the company’s founder, “will continue to be involved in the management of the business,” a statement announcing the acquisition said.
Stewart McIntyre, MD of Sunseeker, said: “We are thrilled to be joining the Wanda family. Support from Wanda will be instrumental in enabling Sunseeker to unlock the enormous potential of China’s rapidly expanding luxury yacht market.
“Combined with Wanda’s outstanding track record of entrepreneurship and history of commitment to supporting leading global brands, this investment will provide an excellent foundation for Sunseeker’s next phase of growth.”
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