Wednesday, October 23, 2024

BRP Puts up Alumacraft, Manitou Boat Companies for Sale

Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), the parent company of brands including Alumacraft, Manitou, Sea-Doo and Rotax, is selling off its marine businesses, in a bid to boost near-term profitability.

The sale, which also includes Telwater (covering brands such as Quintrex (which launched a parts and accessories range in 2023), Stacer, Savage, and Yellowfin), as well as BRP’s marine parts, accessories, and apparel divisions, does not involve its Sea-Doo personal watercraft, Sea-Doo Switch pontoons (read MIN’s report about online safety concerns due to ‘flipping’), or jet propulsion systems.

Canadian firm BRP says, due to ‘current economic conditions‘, it has decided to focus its efforts and resources on its powersports year-round products, seasonal products, parts, accessories and apparel segments, alongside its OEM engine business. The firm, which opened a European design and innovation centre in Sophia Antipolis, France, in 2023, will now focus on its power sports business.

In September, the Quebec-headquartered company presented its second quarter results for 2025, with revenues down 33.7 per cent compared to last year. The firm reported a net income of CA$7.2m (£4.02m), a decrease of CA$331.5m compared to last year.

“After careful consideration and given the current dynamics of both the marine and powersports industries, we have decided to double down on our core powersports activities and to sell our marine businesses,” says José Boisjoli, president and CEO of BRP. “Over the past few years, we have built a solid foundation by investing in developing innovative marine products and upgrading the production facilities. As such, we believe that these iconic brands can offer attractive value creation opportunities for a new owner.”

BRP says it aims to strengthen its position as a leading global powersports OEM. The company believes this move will allow it to pursue growth opportunities in the powersports sector and improve its margin profile, positioning it for long-term success.

BRP anticipates completing the sale process in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026 and does not foresee any impact on its current fiscal year 2025 financial guidance. The firm says no further updates on the progress of the sale will be provided.

National Bank Financial Inc. has been appointed to assist with the sale process.