Alliance between VGD Fairbanks and Convergence
The two yachting equipment distributors VGD Fairbanks and Convergence, headed by Xavier Cador and Vincent Zaleman, formalized their merger on October 5, 2023. The former, known under the brand name VG Distri, was founded in 1998 by Xavier Cador and his wife Elisaberth Cador, and today distributes some twenty equipment manufacturers in France, while operating as a wholesaler, notably through the Osculati catalog. Convergence, created in January 2023, brings together Vincent Zaleman's two hardware stores in Nantes and Boulogne Billancourt, as well as the Bigship center he acquired at the same time.
The two entities, both based in Charente-Maritime, are joining forces within a single group, while retaining their specific characteristics," says Vincent Zaleman : "There is one group, but two separate brands and entities. VGD remains a well-identified and recognized brand. Xavier Cador will take over as head of purchasing for the group, giving us the benefit of his experience, particularly in sourcing. His wife will take over the financial side. As for the other 6 members of VGD, they have been fully taken over."
Consolidate the company and expand the catalog
For Convergence's CEO, the merger between the two distributors seems coherent in the context of a turbulent yachting market: "We're facing a wave of concentration. We too need to strengthen our position in the market. We're both in the same business. We're both distributors. I have a specialized clientele and VGD slightly less, but we're going to be able to pool support functions and logistics. VGD's stock will be transferred to the Bigship site, giving us leverage for transport. We'll also be able to enrich Bigship's catalog."
