The Bénéteau Group ended 2024 with sales of €1.034 billion, down 29.4% on 2023. The fourth quarter proved particularly robust, with sales of €298 million, above initial expectations, boosted by strong commercial support for the networks.

Although the environment remains complex for the first half of 2025, notably due to continued destocking by dealers and a slowdown in multihull sailing, the second half of the year should see a gradual recovery. For the Bénéteau Group, the world's No. 2 in yachts, this recovery will be supported by the introduction of 20 new models and a return to more balanced stock levels in the distribution networks.

A contrasting market between the sailing and powerboat segments

The year 2024 was marked by divergent dynamics between the sailing and motor segments. Sailing, which accounts for 49% of sales, was down 26.5% on an exceptionally strong 2023. This decline can be explained by a slowdown in demand for monohulls, particularly from professional charterers (30%), as well as a normalisation of the multihull market. Despite this context, the Excess brand maintained its performance (with strong sales in the last quarter), while Lagoon continued to move upmarket with the launch of the Lagoon 60.

In the motor segment, which accounts for 51% of sales, the decline was 32.5%, mainly due to dealer inventory adjustments. However, end-customer demand remained solid, with sales to end-customers up 4%. Motor Yachting enjoyed positive momentum, with sales up 16%, thanks in particular to the success of the PRESTIGE F4.9 and the growth of the M-Line range of power catamarans, deliveries of which tripled in one year.

A commitment to innovation and sustainability

Bénéteau has continued its efforts in terms of innovation and eco-design. The Düsseldorf Boat Show was the opportunity to unveil theIsland Cruising Concept, a boat developed on the basis of a scientific analysis of nautical uses. This model, which will reduce the carbon footprint of sailing by 50%, will go on sale in 2026.

In sailing, the introduction of recyclable materials has reached a new level. Following the industrialisation of the JEANNEAU Sun Fast 30OD, the BENETEAU Oceanis Yacht 60 has become one of the first premium models to incorporate Arkema's Elium resin (which is particularly complex to industrialise), reinforcing the Group's commitment to more sustainable sailing.

Recovery expected in the second half of 2025

While the boat shows at the start of the year are showing encouraging signs, the Bénéteau Group is anticipating a gradual recovery from the second half of the year. The introduction of 20 new models, combined with a normalization of dealer inventories, should contribute to this dynamic.

The move upmarket will continue in 2025 with the launch of the Prestige M7 and Lagoon 82 at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025, while entry-level models will be added to the range, including the Beneteau First 30 and Lagoon 38. In terms of engines, the Antares 9 and a new Swift Trawler will strengthen the outboard range, while Prestige will present a new entry-level model, the F4.3.

Outlook and ambitions

Bruno Thivoyon, Managing Director of the Bénéteau Group, is confident about the future, as he tells Actunautique Yxchting Art:

"Despite a slowing market and a necessary reduction in inventories in 2024, we have been able to preserve our margins while accelerating our innovation and product development strategy. The Cannes Boat Show 2025 will be an opportunity to unveil almost 20 new models and launch a new cycle of profitable growth for the Group."

With a strategy focused on moving upmarket, innovation and sustainability, Bénéteau anticipates a return to growth from the second half of 2025.