French boating brand Beneteau has concluded its collaboration with yacht dealership Simpson Marine across the seven Asian countries where they operate.

This decision — described as ‘amicable’ by Beneteau — follows Simpson Marine’s acquisition by Italian boatbuilder Sanlorenzo last year, in a deal worth $17m. Beneteau says Simpson has sold over 500 Beneteau boats in the APAC region in the past 40 years.

“We are grateful for the strong partnership and dedication that Simpson Marine has shown in successfully growing the Beneteau brand across Asia for the past four decades,” says Jean Francois Lair, Beneteau‘s brand director. “I particularly want to acknowledge Mike Simpson and his team for their outstanding work in delivering our boats and providing consistent support to our shared customers.”

Lair confirms that Beneteau has appointed two new partners in Hong Kong: Asiamarine will now represent Beneteau Sail Boats, alongside NextWave Yachting, which will be looking after powerboats.

“This will ensure all Beneteau owners and fans [get] continuous present and permanent support,” he adds.

Richard Allen, Simpson Marine‘s chief operating officer, comments: “We have thoroughly enjoyed representing Beneteau throughout Asia over the last 40 years and assisting hundreds of clients in their yachting journey.

“We will continue to look after all our existing Beneteau owners so they can enjoy their yachting freedom and we will ensure it is a seamless transition to all our customers around the region. We wish Beneteau continued success for the future but now Simpson Marine takes on its new direction after 40 years and the sale of the company to Sanlorenzo SPA.”

In February, catamaran manufacturer Lagoon announced the conclusion of its longstanding partnership with Simpson Marine. Lagoon has also appointed Asiamarine as its new dealership in Hong Kong, Thailand and Singapore.

The post Beneteau ends partnership with Simpson Marine in Asia, appoints Hong Kong dealers appeared first on Marine Industry News.