NKE Marine Electronics changes hands
The NKE Group and its two companies NKE Instrumentation, a specialist in scientific measurement tools for the marine environment and NKE Marine Electronics, a recognised player in electronics for sailing boats, have a new shareholder. Jean-Claude Le Bleis, who has been at the head of these two companies for 14 years, announced on 10 December 2020 that he would be selling them to Alain Boschet.
The profile of the French investor, at the head of his industrial fund Jebaya, active in the scientific fields and aquatic and terrestrial exploration, convinced the former owner and satisfied his teams. "Although solicited by foreign groups, I wanted to pass on NKE Instrumentation and NKE Marine Electronics to an experienced individual entrepreneur, so that they remain independent companies" says Jean-Claude Le Bleis "As was Jean-Claude, Alain is a main shareholder who is also operational, present on a daily basis and who gives his ideas" rejoices Paul Fraisse, manager of NKE's branch dedicated to boating and ocean racing.
Continuity and development of yachting for export
The arrival of Alain Boschet is well received within NKE Marine Electronics, confirming the developments already underway and the positioning of the company, a major player in ocean racing, which equips more than 70% of the Vendée Globe fleet with its wind sensors. "It's continuity in change, in the same premises. We're going to continue to work in our core business, which is pilots, displays and sensors. There is no 90° turn. We're not going to make powerboat pilots. The development plans decided over the last two years are maintained, going until 2023. The launch of the pilot for flying boats is underway" says Paul Fraisse.
At the same time as continuing technological development, NKE Marine Electronics aims to extend its activity to export, outside the French borders. "The hiring of a sales representative dedicated to export is planned to take place soon" explains Paul Fraisse.
