Yachting Art Magazine

The Italian group expects to close the 2024/2025 financial year with a turnover of €1.5 billion, up 15%. This performance is supported by a record order book until 2029, massive investments in infrastructure, and a strategy focused on product innovation and geographical expansion.

While the nautical industry is experiencing a slowdown, the Azimut|Benetti group is posting results that buck the general trend. At the end of the 2024/2025 nautical season, the company expects revenues of €1.5 billion, up 15% on the previous year. This growth is in line with the objectives of its strategic plan and is supported by an order book worth €2.5 billion, guaranteeing activity until 2029.

The Italian manufacturer is focusing on three key drivers: €115 million in infrastructure investments, the introduction of new product ranges designed to appeal to both experienced owners and younger customers, and increased penetration of international markets. This strategy confirms its ambition to be the global leader in the high-end yachting segment.

Infrastructure: a strengthened network

The group is allocating €115 million between 2024 and 2027 to modernize all of its Italian sites. The focus is on ramping up production capacity and specializing in certain high value-added activities.

The Avigliana shipyard has been adapted to accommodate the construction of yachts up to 28 meters in length. Other investments concern the Lusben division, which specializes in refits and is benefiting from expanded space to meet growing demand.

Two technology hubs complete this setup: the Light Steel Hub, dedicated to metal construction for units under 45 meters, and the Composite Hub in Tuscany, specializing in the processing of fiberglass and carbon for mega-yachts. These new entities add to the recognized expertise of the group's historic sites.

Product innovation: appealing to a variety of profiles

At the same time, Azimut|Benetti continues to develop its offering by multiplying stylistic and technological innovations. The objective is threefold: to consolidate its presence at the high end of the market, to appeal to a new generation of owners, and to offer concepts in line with changing lifestyles.

At Azimut, the Seadeck series illustrates this approach by combining luxury, aesthetic simplicity, and reduced environmental impact. It reflects a vision of yachting focused on nature and authenticity. The Grande series, the market leader in the 26-40 meter segment, has been enhanced with a new interpretation by the m2atelier studio, which offers a “barefoot luxury” aesthetic characterized by natural comfort and fluid spaces.

Benetti, for its part, is continuing to develop its Oasis and B.Yond ranges, designed to bring owners closer to the sea and offer them a more emotional and sustainable experience. The new Oasis 42, designed by RWD with interiors by Bonetti/Kozerski, renews the concept by amplifying the feeling of continuity with the marine environment.

Two new developments have also been announced: a new era of “travel” at Azimut and, at Benetti, the introduction of a new category combining the comfort of a motor yacht with sailing-inspired features. These launches aim to redefine yachting culture and attract a clientele seeking exploration.

A balanced international strategy

Despite an uncertain economic climate, the group maintains a balanced distribution of orders: 38% in Europe, 31% in the Americas, and 31% in the EMEA-APAC region.

Europe remains a historic market, reinforced by strategic locations. Azimut boutiques are already present in Monaco and Palma de Mallorca, and a Benetti showroom will soon open near the Yacht Club de Monaco. On the French Riviera, Lusben is consolidating its presence with a sales office in Antibes.

In the Middle East, growth has been spectacular: market share, combined with Asia-Pacific, has risen from 23% to 31% in two years. Saudi Arabia is emerging as a growth driver with more than €300 million in sales over 24 months and the upcoming opening of offices in Jeddah for Azimut and in Riyadh for Benetti.

In Asia-Pacific, the group has a long-standing and multifaceted presence, supported by a dense network of dealers covering Japan, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand.

On the American continent, and more particularly in the United States, the group maintains a dominant position despite the constraints associated with new import taxes. The opening, scheduled for fall 2025, of two exclusive boutiques in Fort Lauderdale within the Pier Sixty-Six complex, underscores the desire to establish a lasting presence in a demanding but essential market.

Outlook and challenges

The announcement of these results and this strategy is part of a long-term consolidation strategy. Azimut|Benetti is demonstrating its ability to invest heavily while innovating in order to remain competitive in a sector subject to fierce competition and rapidly changing owner expectations.

The strength of its order book, geographical diversification, and constant updating of its ranges give the group a favorable position. Nevertheless, the economic climate requires continued anticipation of growing regulatory pressure, increased environmental requirements, and global economic uncertainties.

In this context, the Italian group's approach—innovation, internationalization, and industrial strengthening—appears to be a coherent response. It aims to consolidate its status as a world leader in luxury yachting and preserve its ability to adapt to profound changes in the market.