The marine mechanics workshop Chatelais & Le Gall changes hands
A family business since 1952, the company Chatelais & Le Gall de Saint-Malo has changed ownership. Roland Le Gall, who has been at the head of the marine engineering company for 40 years, is preparing for his retirement, which will take place after a period of support. Olivier Réhel, known in the nautical world after more than 20 years as part of the distributor of equipment for Interdist yachting, has joined forces with Christophe Couilleaud, manager of SARL Mecca Ouest in Erquy, to take over Chatelais & Le Gall. He took over the management of the company in Saint-Malo.
A know-how in marine engines
The company Chatelais & Le Gall benefits from a recognized image in marine engineering in the Saint-Malo basin. It distributes marine engines and spare parts for the Baudouin, Caterpillar, Nanni-Diesel, Volvo Penta and Yanmar brands and has a turnover of ?1.2 million. "We have a team of 10 employees with 4 mechanics and 2 turners, formed a long time ago and with great experience. The equipment in the machining centre and our forge allow us to produce parts for repair. The company realizes 60% of its activity in fishing and industry and 40% in yachting" explains Olivier Réhel.
Creating synergies
The combination of the two partners' experiences ensures a good complementarity between the yachting and professional boat sectors. Mecca Ouest, Christophe Couilleaud's company, created 7 years ago, works only in the professional field. "One of the association's interests will be to create a mass effect for both companies in terms of recruitment and skills development," adds the new manager.
Want to start a business
Why switch from recreational equipment to marine engines? Olivier Réhel explains that he had wanted to start a business for a long time. "I wanted to be self-employed. I was looking for a local company with a strong reputation. A friend of mine, a chartered accountant, presented me with the Chatelais & Le Gall file and made the link with Christophe who didn't want to go alone. This is a change of scale compared to Interdist. I was also mainly in the first assembly whereas here we are in the second assembly with a lot of reengining. It's a nice change!"
