Company: Euroyachts, Yachts.co
Business Type: Boat Sales, Vessel Broker
UK & International Business Sales and M&A News
Euroyachts, the long-established Scottish boat dealer and broker, has been sold to Yachts.co as part of the Swansea-based Jeanneau dealer’s UK expansion plan.
Originally based on the Clyde in Glasgow, Euroyachts was established in 1965 by Ronnie Scott, who pioneered the import of pleasure craft to the UK by introducing the East-German Folkboat, making owning a yacht and sailing more accessible to many, whilst becoming a well-known boat dealer and broker.
The acquisition by Yachts.co, for an undisclosed six figure sum, means that Euroyachts will cease to be owned by a member of the Scott family for the first time in 55 years.
The firm went on to become dealers of many popular brands, but is best known for its 40-year plus relationship with Jeanneau, which makes it one of longest-serving Jeanneau dealers in the world. Euroyachts distributed Jeanneau products on an exclusive basis in the UK from 1978 to 1993. Other business interests include brokerage operations and engineering services.
Since 1994, the firm has been run by Ronnie Scott’s son, Angus, who has worked in the business since 1981. He made the move of the main premises from Glasgow city centre to the first, and still only, custom-built boat showroom of its scale in the UK, at Largs Yacht Haven. The firm also operates from Troon Yacht Haven.
Angus Scott commented:
“The sale of the company to Yachts.co will give us access to fresh thinking and improved digital skills, which will help Euroyachts to maintain and grow its market leading position in Scotland.
“I am delighted that all of the staff, with the exception of myself, are staying onboard and also that a new hiring has been made at Largs.
“Now is the perfect time for me to bow out of the business and concentrate on sailing rather than selling. I would like to thank all of our staff, trading partners and especially our customers for their support over the decades.”
Angus Scott - Managing Director of Euroyachts
David Noble, who has been with the company since 2001, will take over responsibility for general management. Nic Le Clanche, a well respected member of the marine trade in Scotland and an accomplished yachtsman, will take on responsibility for running the service department, as well as some brokerage.
Jamie Tibbott, Managing Director of Yachts.co, commented:
“We have been seeking to expand our UK operation for some time and Euroyachts is a great fit for us.
“We are conscious of Euroyachts’ long history and huge customer base which we will work hard to serve. It is not our intention to make any radical changes, rather we plan to upgrade and modernise systems and streamline processes.
“We are looking forward to working with the Euroyachts crew and wish Angus all the best for the future.”
Jamie Tibbott – Managing Director of Yachts.co
Antoine Chancelier, Jeanneau’s sales manager for UK and Ireland, is equally positive about the transaction:
“Jeanneau are delighted that Yachts.co have purchased Euroyachts.
“Euroyachts are amongst our longest serving, most experienced dealers globally and the influence of Yachts.co will complement the existing strengths at Euroyachts. The deal will also assure continuity of service for our customers which is something we prize very highly.”
Antoine Chancelier – Jeanneau’s sales manager for UK and Ireland
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