Company: Bridger Marine
Business Type: Boat Sales, Chandlery
UK & International Business Sales and M&A News
Bridger Marine, a family-run boat sales specialist based in Exeter, is continuing the generational theme, after it was sold to a long-standing employee, together with his father.
Bridger Marine deals in boat sales, as well as being an outboard motor dealership providing specialist main agent sales and servicing support for a number of engine manufacturers. The business also retails leading brand-named leisure marine and watersports equipment, and has an on-site chandlery.
Bridger Marine was founded in 1979 by John Bridger, and it swiftly became a family-run business, with his wife Janice joining a few years later, together with their son Paul, who joined in his early teens.
Paul subsequently took over the running of the business from his parents, together with his wife Amanda.
Paul commented:
“The business grew slowly but surely over the years, increasing sales and customers, and taking on new dealerships, as well as adapting to new markets and changes in the industry.
“We focused on good customer service, which we are renowned for.”
Paul Bridger - former owner of Bridger Marine
The new owners, father and son team Rick and Chris Mason, have experience in the business, with Chris being employed by Paul for the past 18 years as senior salesperson, and his dad Rick being one of their most long-standing customers, making numerous boat purchases from Bridger over the years.
Paul continued:
“I’m working for the Masons for the foreseeable future in sales. We know Chris and his dad well, and we know the business is in good hands.”
Paul Bridger - former owner of Bridger Marine
The new owners see the acquisition as a time for development and expansion.
Rick said:
“We are rebranding as Masons Marine and we hope to expand the repair and servicing side of the business, possibly in to a mobile service, as well as based at the premises in Exeter.
“Chris and I have worked with Paul for many years and we wish him all the best in his semi retirement.”
Rick Mason - new owner of Bridger Marine
First Peninsula Marine acted as advisors and agents to Bridger Marine.
Paul Martin, Associate Director of First Peninsula Marine, commented:
“It was fantastic that a long-established and well-known family business is now owned by another family with impressive plans for the future, and the business will continue to provide a service to all boat owners for many more years.”
Paul Martin – Associate Director of First Peninsula Marine
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