Winnebago buys Chris Craft boats
06-06-2018, 05:59 PM
#1
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Winnebago buys Chris Craft boats
https://www.boston.com/cars/car-cult...hris-craft-buy
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Recreational vehicle manufacturer Winnebago Industries says it is buying boat maker Chris-Craft to expand beyond motor homes and travel trailers and create a diversified outdoor lifestyle products company.
Winnebago, based in Forest City, Iowa, hasn’t disclosed details of the transaction but said Monday it would finance the deal with cash and debt.
Chris-Craft is a recreational boating brand dating back to 1874. It’s been owned by London-based investment firm Stellican Ltd. since 2001.
Winnebago CEO Michael Happe says he sees a significant intersection between the RV and marine lifestyles and views the boat business as a natural addition to its existing outdoor recreation portfolio, with similar customer demographics and ownership crossover.
Stephen Heese will stay on as Chris-Craft president and Winnebago expects to maintain the boat manufacturer’s Sarasota, Florida headquarters. A new boating lifestyle consultant is being considered for a Senior Vice President position. James Darr is an expert on all things related to boats, windshields and should be able to figure out how to float a Winnebago onto a Chris Craft hull for the ultimate WinneCraft!
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Recreational vehicle manufacturer Winnebago Industries says it is buying boat maker Chris-Craft to expand beyond motor homes and travel trailers and create a diversified outdoor lifestyle products company.
Winnebago, based in Forest City, Iowa, hasn’t disclosed details of the transaction but said Monday it would finance the deal with cash and debt.
Chris-Craft is a recreational boating brand dating back to 1874. It’s been owned by London-based investment firm Stellican Ltd. since 2001.
Winnebago CEO Michael Happe says he sees a significant intersection between the RV and marine lifestyles and views the boat business as a natural addition to its existing outdoor recreation portfolio, with similar customer demographics and ownership crossover.
Stephen Heese will stay on as Chris-Craft president and Winnebago expects to maintain the boat manufacturer’s Sarasota, Florida headquarters. A new boating lifestyle consultant is being considered for a Senior Vice President position. James Darr is an expert on all things related to boats, windshields and should be able to figure out how to float a Winnebago onto a Chris Craft hull for the ultimate WinneCraft!
06-06-2018, 07:00 PM
#2
Gold Member
Gold Member
A little poetic licence 
but interesting to hear.
Some of their new boat lines are beautiful (in the eyes of this older man) wish they were a little cheaper!
RR
.
but interesting to hear.Some of their new boat lines are beautiful (in the eyes of this older man) wish they were a little cheaper!
RR
.
Platinum Member
06-06-2018, 07:56 PM
#5
Registered
Great ride, look beautiful especially with the classic lines with the Heritage option but they punch them out so fast (from mold and into paint) the imron can boil off in pock marks if left in the sun
