The receivership of French Boat Market, a key player in the French boating industry for several decades, will have significant repercussions for the sector. Distributor in France of brands such as Galia, Northstar, Nuova Jolly, Numarine, Pursuit, Rodman and Scout Boats, FBM had also acquired the French brand White Shark in 2020, relaunching its production on the island of Noirmoutier. In turnaround for several months, FBM had recently lost distribution of the Galéon brand, sounding the death knell for the company founded in 1993. Here's a look at what this liquidation means for yachting professionals and enthusiasts. âeuros
Distribution of international brands interrupted
FBM was responsible for importing and distributing several well-known brands of pleasure boats in France. The liquidation of the company puts these partnerships on hold, leaving dealers and customers uncertain as to the continuity of after-sales service and model availability. The brands concerned will have to rapidly reorganize their distribution network to maintain their presence on the French market. âeuros
White Shark boat production at a standstill
In 2020, FBM acquired the White Shark brand, relaunching production of these top-of-the-range open boats on the island of Noirmoutier, in a former Bénéteau factory. This relocation was aimed at producing between 120 and 140 units a year, with models such as the White Shark 240CC, 280CC and 240SC. When FBM went into liquidation, production ceased, leaving outstanding orders and the future of the brand in limbo. Throughout its existence, White Shark has had a chaotic history, having gone into liquidation and changed hands several times. âeuros
An impact on local employment
The Noirmoutier yard employed around 30 people specializing in laminating, composites and assembly. The closure of FBM will jeopardize these jobs, as well as those of local subcontractors and suppliers. The relocation of White Shark production had been hailed as a positive initiative for the regional economy; its disappearance is a setback for the industrial fabric of the Vendée. âeuros
An uncertain outlook for customers and partners
Customers who have ordered boats via FBM or its dealers find themselves in a difficult situation. Refund and delivery terms for in-process units remain unclear. Similarly, FBM's commercial partners, whether suppliers or distributors, need to assess the impact of this liquidation on their business. âeuros
The future of the White Shark brand, emblematic of French nautical know-how, will depend on the ability of a buyer to relaunch production and safeguard local jobs.
When contacted, French Boat Market management declined to comment.
