Finland-based Saxdor Yachts acquired by Malibu Boats, Inc.
Saxdor Yachts has been acquired by Malibu Boats, Inc. (MBI), a specialist in recreational powerboats, in a transaction valued at approximately €150 million (USD $175 million).
Saxdor Yachts manufactures boats in five model size categories: 20 ft, 27 ft, 32 ft, 34 ft and 40 ft. Founded in 2019, it is Europe’s fastest-growing boat brand – the company has produced nine models with an annual volume of around 700 boats, utilising nearly 1,000 employees in Finland and Poland. It’s HQ is in Helsinki, Finland, with a shipyard in Elk, Poland, and production facilities in Larsmo, Finland,
The company also uses advanced technology and AI – one of the latest innovations includes Saxdor AI, the industry’s first AI-powered co-skipper, and the Digital Showroom, an immersive platform that allows customers to explore and configure boats in a realistic virtual environment. It also invests in industry talent through the Saxdor Academy, providing specialised training and education to strengthen the shipbuilding workforce.
Erna Rusi, CEO of Saxdor, said:
“We are very excited about the opportunities ahead with Malibu. Their resources, innovation vision, and infrastructure position us for long-term success. Combined with Saxdor’s unique models, efficient production, strong brand, and the talent and continuous dedication of our team, this acquisition unlocks an entirely new level of growth.
“This milestone is ultimately the result of years of focused execution and the exceptional commitment of our people, who have built Saxdor into what it is today. Malibu is a great cultural fit, and we look forward to the development opportunities this larger organization will offer our team.”
Malibu Boats, Inc. designs, manufactures and markets recreational powerboats. Founded in 1982 in Loudon, Tennessee, the company employs more than 2,000 people across eight production facilities, and sells over 5,000 boats annually to recreational boaters, fishermen and water-sports enthusiasts. Its portfolio includes wake sports, luxury runabouts, and saltwater fishing,
Its range includes brands like Malibu, Axis, Cobalt, Pursuit, Cobia, Pathfinder, Maverick, and Hewes, and its innovative products include the power wedge, which offers wake customisation; Surf Gate, which transforms the wake into a customised wave for surfing; and the Slide System Space Saver, which reconfigures seats at the touch of a button.
Following this acquisition, Saxdor Yachts’ press release states it will operate as a subsidiary of Malibu Boats, Inc., with its management team remaining in place. while maintaining its brand identity and operational autonomy, leveraging Malibu Boats’ resources and established infrastructure, particularly in North America. Founder and Chief Designer Sakari Mattila will also continue in his role as Head Designer.
Picture caption (courtesy of Saxdor Yachts): Erna Rusi, CEO of Saxdor Yachts