French marine equipment manufacturer and distributor Plastimo has acquired MaxPower, a leading European bowthruster manufacturer
French marine equipment manufacturer and distributor Plastimo has acquired MaxPower, a leading European bowthruster manufacturer. The deal was announced today by Plastimo president Tony Le Saffre. He did not disclose financial details.
“Over the past few years our group has shown a real interest in companies offering complementary industrial know-how, engineering capabilities and products,” Le Saffre informed IBI. “And MaxPower definitely fits this profile.”
With most of its manufacturing activities conducted in Europe, the Plastimo Group now includes nine facilities and seven brands across the continent. In France it has its headquarters, factory and warehouse in Lorient, Amiot in St Malo, Accastillage Bernard in Cannes, Moine in Bordeaux, ABA in La Rochelle, DNS in Hendaye, and now MaxPower in Mandelieu-La Napoule. Then there is also Nuova Rade in Genoa, Italy, and XM Yachting in Berwick, England.
Founded in 1987 by Guy Fontanille and Klara Skaaltveit, MaxPower, based in the south of France, today employs 12 people. Its range of thrusters takes in virtually the whole pleasureboat spectrum, up to 50m (170ft). As with all Plastimo subsidiaries, MaxPower will remain autonomous. Its existing management and production team will remain in place.
Where it will gain most from Plastimo is in developing its presence internationally, particularly strengthening its distribution network, and in development resources.
The Plastimo establishment now numbers around 630 people and turnover for 2001 is expected to top Euro 100 million.
