A merger with Bénéteau
The economic context of the mid-90's will lead to one of the most impactful bankruptcies in the history of boating. In 1995, the Jeanneau shipyard was forced to declare bankruptcy. Major players in the yachting industry, such as Zodiac Marine and the Poncin group, showed interest in the ailing shipyard. But it was its Vendée competitor Bénéteau, which was favored by the commercial court and took over all of Jeanneau's activities.
Bénéteau-Jeanneau: the world's largest manufacturer
With the two rivals united in the same group, it naturally became the world's leading pleasure boat builder. With Bénéteau's industrial knowledge and financing capabilities, Jeanneau set up operations in the United States and then in Asia.
The surface area of the French production site has been increased to 40 hectares, making it one of the largest boat factories in the world. Despite the inevitable synergies between the two shipyards, both brands have kept their specificity in order to adapt to a competitive market.
Sun Fast and Sun Odyssey: the false twins
In the early 2000s, Jeanneau renamed its sailing yacht ranges into two names: Sun Fast for racing and Sun Odyssey for a cruising program. Designed for offshore and inshore races, the Sun Fast will win many victories in the IRC circuit, but also in the Transquadra, an amateur transatlantic race reserved for sailors over 40 years old.
In 2018, Jeanneau is innovating with a new deck layout on the Sun Odyssey 44 and 49. Described as a walkaround, it allows a crew member to go all the way around the deck without stepping over a single step. Facilitating the circulation, comfort and safety of the crew, this innovation was subsequently adopted on other models in the range.
A strong comeback in the powerboat market
Starting in 2016, Jeanneau is regenerating its offer and simultaneously presenting three ranges: Leader, Velasco and NC. In addition to the Prestige and Leader, these three categories offer a complete catalog to best suit all programs.
Jeanneau's history is also associated with the success of the Merry Fisher range, which is still marketed to this day. From a small rustic fishing boat dedicated to fishing, the Merry Fisher has become an SUV of the sea, with a versatile boat offer adapted to a large family program.
In 2021, Jeanneau is revisiting its DB range, for day-boat, which appeared in the 1980s. With the DB43, which was followed by the DB 37, the Herbiers shipyard positioned itself on the premium segment of the luxury day boat.
The site in a few figures
In over 60 years of production, Jeanneau has launched nearly 250,000 boats. Approximately 3,000 employees are at work to ensure an annual production of about 3,500 units. About 100 dealers are present all over the world. Together with all the subsidiaries of the Beneteau group, Jeanneau has generated a turnover of 1.5 billion euros in 2022.
