OneWater has reportedly made an all-cash, $40-a-share offer for MarineMax, following months of private discussions. Bloomberg also reported that according to unnamed sources, the combined company would be valued at about $2.5 billion, including debt.

OneWater has issued the following statement on the rumoured acquisition: “As a matter of policy, we do not comment on market rumors or speculation. OneWater is a highly disciplined and seasoned acquirer within the fragmented boating industry.”

“Since 2014, we have successfully executed more than 30 acquisitions that have contributed to increased shareholder value. This strong track record is anchored by our ability to meaningfully expand EBITDA of acquired companies through expeditious synergy realisation.”OneWater Marine is one of the largest and fastest-growing premium marine retailers in the United States. OneWater operates a total of 96 retail locations, 10 distribution centres and warehouses and multiple online marketplaces in 18 different states, several of which are in the top twenty states for marine retail expenditures.

Photo: MarineMax

MarineMax operates in around 130 locations, including 83 dealerships, 66 marina and storage facilities, and also owns the brokerage firms Northrop & Johnson and Fraser. In addition, Northrop & Johnson has grown over the years with the acquisition of companies such as IGY Marinas and Superyacht Management (SYM).

If the two companies were to join forces, the combination would result in significant cost savings and long-term earnings growth. OneWater Marine is no stranger to takeovers, with the acquisition of Denison Yachting taking place in 2022 and the closing of Garden State Yacht Sales last month.