The composite parts of the Epoh produced by Espace Vag
The Espace Vag shipyard in Concarneau has just been awarded the manufacturing of the composite parts of the Epoh skiff by Transsonique in early January 2018. The hulls, stabilizers and roofs of the small sailboat will be made in infusion in the Finisterian yard. While the molds are already on site, production should begin mid-February 2018. The goal for the first year is to reach a volume of 10 to 12 boats.
Subcontracting, a growth driver
Through this new market, James Simon, who arrived at the head of the Espace Vag shipyard at the beginning of 2018, validates his industrial policy. "We are now organized in 3 poles: shipbuilding for our Ikone sailboats, repair - refit and a new activity of services to professionals. We offer design capabilities, for which we have recruited an engineer and a naval architect, and construction of molds and composite parts in small series. This new service has been very well received by the market, with already 4 requests in progress and this first contract with Transsonique. This demonstrates the soundness of our strategy. Subcontracting is an important growth driver for us."
Anchoring the Epoh in Concarneau
Yannick D'armancourt, founder of Transsonique and inventor of the Epoh, is also delighted to be working with Espace Vag. "Since the beginning, I always wanted to build the Epoh in Concarneau. After the first 4 boats at Kaïros, Roland Jourdain's nursery, I had not found a local solution for the series. So I dealt with an industrialist from North Brittany. By bringing the construction closer to Concarneau, 5 minutes from our home, it facilitates logistics and is good for quality. I also liked James Simon's dynamic approach to Espace Vag and his desire to modernize the fleet. It's a good start and why not collaborate on future models?"
Recruiting
James Simon is also pleased with the strong growth in orders for his Ikone sailboats, 2 of which were sold at Boot 2018. The launch of the new Ikone 6.50 will be an important milestone of 2018 for the shipyard. Faced with this increase in activity, Espace Vag is recruiting staff, while remaining cautious, says its manager.
