Judicial liquidation
Beach catamaran builder Nau was placed in receivership on May 18, 2018. Founded by Louis Cottin, the company's objective was to develop an innovative product allowing, from a boat and two rotomolded floats, to easily assemble 5 supports. The yachtsman could, according to his needs, enjoy a dinghy, a dinghy, a motor catamaran, a sailing catamaran for beginners with seats, or a more powerful sailing catamaran with trampolines. In the absence of a buyer, the equipment should be sold at auction by September. Potential buyers have already expressed interest. "What is certain is that we will not let the mold go for the price of aluminum," says Nau's founder. The company is also expected to part with its stock of boats, masts and accessories.
A problem of time
Louis Cottin explains the failure of Nau's start-up by a problem of time and market analysis. "In the catamaran market for sailing schools, there is a lot of competition. On the last calls for tender, we were winning in terms of price but we were not recognized enough. It would have taken 5 years to become known, with a budget to make boats available. The process with large accounts such as Club Med was underway, but there again, it takes time. As for the private boaters who could have helped us get through this critical phase, Nau's target clientele is not one that buys. They prefer to rent. When they do buy, they either prefer the simplicity of inflatables, or they choose catamarans that are more performance-oriented."
A great experience
Louis Cottin doesn't regret the experience and plans to use it in his future position at the start-up K-ryole, which develops a smart bike trailer. "I preferred to stop before leaving debts. There's no slate and I'm happy to have developed a working boat, even though I didn't know anything about it at first. It also taught me a lot about business management, which I could use in my new job."
