Swedish shipyard Nimbus has bought 100% shares of the Finnish manufacturer Bella boats together with four of his brands: Aquador, Flipper, Bella and Falcon. The deal also includes the purchase of dealer Flipper Marine AB, based in Stockholm.
“By combining the two shipbuilders with a long history, we strengthen our position in the Nordic region and lay a solid Foundation for further expansion. We will build this “house of brands”, carefully balance the brands against each other, and our dealers will be able to offer a full range of models and brands,” — said in a press release Nimbus Boats.
Nimbus acquired the shares Bella from its founder Soininen Raimo (Raimo Sonninen) and the American Brunswick Corporation, which owns the manufacturer of outboard engines Mercury Marine and yacht brands Sea Ray, Bayliner, Crestliner, Harris Boats and Boston Whaler. Although Brunswick no longer has a stake in Bella, the cooperation of the shipyard with Mercury Marine will continue in the same volume, said Nimbus.
Along with the brands Bella, a Swedish company got the production site of the shipyard in Kuopio and Larsmo, employing 150 people.
Bella Boats OY was founded Raimo Sonninen in 1970. Brunswick Corporation bought 36% Bella in 2003, then began the cooperation with the shipyard, engine manufacturer Mercury.
