Beacher: 25 years of a committed and sustainable project in the Arcachon Basin

© Clément Philippon

Beacher, the emblematic shipyard of the Arcachon Basin, celebrates its twenty-fifth anniversary in 2025. This local brand has made a name for itself in the production of customized boats, while remaining faithful to a regional and eco-responsible economy. Its model is evolving, integrating profound changes in production, trade and services.

Strong local roots and involvement in the Arcachon Basin economy

Beacher, with a production of over 230 units in twenty-five years, remains a key economic player in the Bassin d'Arcachon. Since its takeover in 2018 by three partners, including Éric Delas, Beacher has been a member of the Union des Professionnels du Nautisme du Bassin d'Arcachon (UPNBA) and a partner of the "Bassin d'Arcachon Brand". Through these commitments, the company promotes regional know-how and the local art of living.

The brand is also a signatory to the "Arcachon Origine Chantier" charter, consolidating its roots in the basin. This label reinforces the transparency of local practices, which the company considers essential in the face of frequent relocation in the nautical industry. What's more, Beacher is an active member of the Association pour la plaisance Eco-Responsable (APER), a partnership that supports its objectives of sustainability and environmental respect.

Towards a new production organization

To maintain local production in the face of growing demand, Beacher launched a double assembly line in early 2023. But one of these lines, entrusted to the craftsman Nautiplast, came to a halt in July 2024, after ten years in operation. From now on, the Couach shipyard will take over all assembly and composite production operations, consolidating the Beacher shipyard's ability to meet orders.

Moreover, local roots remain a priority: over 70% of suppliers and subcontractors are located in the Arcachon Basin, representing up to eight full-time equivalents (FTEs). This strategy of regional integration also includes two Breton companies for specific materials and two Italian suppliers, recognized for their know-how and global competitiveness.

A rethought business model for direct customer relations

Unlike the major manufacturers, Beacher does not impose stocks on its distributor partners. The advanced customization of each boat makes each manufacture unique and started only after a customer order. In a context of rising post-COVID material costs, Beacher has taken the decision, since August 1?? 2024, to strengthen its direct relationship with its prospects and customers. This choice allows us to better listen to their needs while controlling the production chain to maintain a high level of quality.

This close bond between the brand and its customers is part of a tradition of proximity and customer satisfaction, an aspect that Beacher wishes to emphasize in the face of often more industrialized competition.

Quality services for a complete experience

In partnership with Sensey Nautic, Beacher offers a complete range of services located in the Arcachon basin. This partnership guarantees Beacher owners a complete maintenance service, with tailor-made support: water outlets, cleaning, engine overhauls, indoor wintering and launching. These services are part of a commitment to customer loyalty and satisfaction that goes beyond simple sales, offering quality support over the long term.

With these services, Beacher capitalizes on its vision of local, personalized service, accessible on both shores of the Bay of Arcachon. This model optimizes the durability and performance of each Beacher unit, while prolonging their lifespan.

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