New owner for OneSails GBR (East) and Evolution Rigging
Suffolk Yacht Harbour has been on a shopping spree, pursuing its quest to become a one-stop shop for berth holders and marine visitors. The marina, which says it offers the largest boat lifting and launching facilities between Bridlington in Yorkshire and the Solent on the south coast, has snapped up two east coast marine businesses – namely OneSails GBR (East) and Evolution Rigging. Both were previously owned by John Parker and are now owned by SYH with no other shareholders.
They’ll both continue to operate under their existing brands.
“OneSails and Evolution Rigging already work closely with our team, they are part of the fabric of SYH, so this is a natural progression for all parties,” says SYH MD Joshua Major. “The existing staff will continue to work as normal, it’s very much business as usual.”
SYH chairman Jonathan Dyke adds: “SYH has worked with John Parker, the previous owner of the two businesses, for nearly 40 years so we have in-depth knowledge of the staff, customers, products and expectations going forwards. We will continue to build on the solid foundations established by John and his team, ensuring customer service remains of the utmost importance.”
The 550-berth marina on the River Orwell is also home to a traditional chandlery, Classic Marine, and onsite marine businesses that include a sailing school, a yacht club, yacht brokerage, marine engineers and electricians.
“The acquisition will bring noticeable efficiencies for OneSails and Evolution Rigging,” Major tells MIN. “Suffolk Yacht Harbour plans to implement tech-based systems, including a bespoke app, to improve internal communication and implement robust processes. This will ultimately result in an improved customer experience and allow the teams to work more cohesively.”
Transition period for SYH and OneSails
Parker is expected to work as a consultant during the transition period.
He believes that “OneSails and Evolution Rigging are in safe hands under SYH ownership. They have close experience and knowledge of both businesses, which I am sure will thrive under the new management. Having been a sailmaker for over 40 years it is in my DNA and that doesn’t just go away overnight. I will continue to work with the team to ensure a smooth transition for customers, staff and suppliers.”
Operating as a franchise within the OneSails International group, the east coast loft at SYH is one of 52 sail lofts in the brand’s worldwide network.
Major says he is a passionate sailor with experience, which includes international regattas. “I understand the importance of quality sails and rigging for boats of all shapes and sizes, whether you are cruising or racing. I am looking forward to working with the teams from both businesses, as well as within the OneSails group.”
Jonathan Dyke (left) and Joshua Major from Suffolk Yacht HarbourMajor confirms that the acquisition had been in the pipeline for a while, saying: “An acquisition of this nature doesn’t just happen overnight; we have taken the time to ensure it’s right for both sides.”
He also confirms that SYH is not looking at any more acquisitions in the immediate future. “The acquisition of OneSails and Evolution Rigging is a significant move for SYH so we are not looking at expanding the portfolio further,” he tells MIN. “We intend to focus on better understanding both OneSails and Evolution Rigging to support the existing teams and allow them to independently thrive.”
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