Strong growth in the Boat business
Bénéteau recorded good growth in the first quarter (Sept-Nov 2014), driven mainly by the Boat business. 94.8 million, up 27% on the previous year.
The Group anticipates double-digit growth in the Boat business, on a like-for-like basis, for the full year. This performance is linked to the strengthening of its global positioning, both on the sailboat and powerboat markets, as well as to the increase in its order book. The first winter boat shows were quite positive and the recovery is being confirmed, particularly in North America but also in Europe, where the Group expects growth.
We should also mention the acquisition of the American company RecBoat, which recorded sales of 22 million euros in the first quarter. Excluding this acquisition, revenues for the Boat business amounted to 72.8 million euros.
A Habitat business that is expanding internationally
On the Habitat side, Bénéteau recorded sales of ?12 million, down 20.5% due to the drop in investments by tourism professionals in France. The Group is therefore counting on a much less pronounced decline over the rest of the year, as this will be offset by international growth.
In a press release, the Group stated that " first quarter sales are not significant for the group's annual activity, of which they usually represent only 10 to 15%."
