America's oldest motorhome manufacturer Winnebago Industries Inc has bought the iconic Chris-Craft brand of stylish rowboats. The seller was British investment company Stellican Ltd, which has owned the production of luxury boats since 2001.
The current president of the shipyard, Stephen Heese, will continue to lead the organization, which will remain a separate business unit. The 15,800-square-foot facility in Sarasota, Florida, will continue to focus on building big-name boats.
«I am delighted that Chris-Craft has found Winnebago Industries as an ideal partner," commented Stephen Julius, chairman of Chris-Craft and founder of Stellican Ltd. - Winnebago is a natural fit for the premium Chris-Craft brand. They share iconic names, complementary cultures and a shared dedication to craftsmanship, quality, design and customer service».
Winnebago Industries Inc has been manufacturing trailers, motorhomes and other recreational vehicles on wheels since 1958. Its portfolio includes several facilities in Iowa, Indiana, Oregon, Minnesota and Florida, employing approximately 2,400 people.
Chris-Craft's history dates back to 1874. Since then, the legendary brand's boats have won the hearts of boat enthusiasts around the world.
Founded in Florida, the shipyard has changed ownership over the years and transitioned from making wooden boats to fiberglass. Today, Chris-Craft builds classic powerboats and bowriders, as well as boats geared more toward fishermen.