Arriving at the beginning of August 2021 at the head of Bavaria Yachts, the new CEO of the German shipyard Marc Diening took advantage of the Cannes boat show to meet with the boating industry and discuss the company's situation. BoatIndustry asked him about his ambitions for the company.
What is the dynamic of Bavaria Yachts today, after the pandemic and the crisis the company went through after the bankruptcy in 2018?
There is a real return of confidence and growth. We expect an increase of 15 to 20%, to reach a number of boats between 650 and 700 units. Our suppliers have regained confidence and we have returned to normal payment terms. Like many other companies, our problem is more the capacity to deliver the boats. The lead time is now 12 months. Demand is strong and we sometimes have difficulty obtaining the engines.
From a jobs perspective, we are back to a good level.
What is the split between the sailboat and powerboat ranges? What are the next developments?
Today sales are divided between 2/3 sailing boats and 1/3 motor boats. Therefore, as we have just launched 2 sailing boats, the next one will be a motor boat. Details will be revealed in the fall for a presentation at the Boot Düsseldorf.
The Nautitech catamaran shipyard, which is part of the Bavaria Group, has refocused on the owner's market, to the detriment of charter. Is there an equivalent strategy for Bavaria Yachts with regard to charter?
No. The companies are different. Charter has always been very important for Bavaria. We will continue to work in this sector.
How does Bavaria position itself with regard to environmental issues in the propulsion and construction of boats?
There is a structural change going on. It's important to really think about what the real needs of customers are, what the trends and demands are. I arrived at my position only a few weeks ago. We will surely join the trend. But the company deserves clear choices and consistency. It has seen many changes of course in the past.
