Gav io Group takes ove r Bertram Brand

Yachts International

The Gavio Group has taken over Bertram Yachts from the Ferretti Group. The acquisition follows Gavio’s takeover of Cantieri Cerri in September 2011 and Baglietto in February 2012. Established by Richard Bertram in 1960, Bertram Yachts is an icon to U.S. yachtsmen. Gavio believes the Bertram brand is similar in nature to Baglietto, sharing several common features, such as a family history characterized by legendary yachts, records broken and competitions won, and a strong national identity with far-reaching international acclaim. sat down with Beniamino Gavio to chat about his newest acquisition.

Q: A: Well, for one thing, I used to own a Bertram 54 and loved it. My new interest in Bertram started when I was at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. There was no Bertram on display and I thought it was very sad. … I decided to approach Ferretti. A: I am meeting with McKinsey to discuss some new strategies. At first, I was thinking we would build Bertrams in Italy, but Bertram is an American brand and should be built in America. I am looking at shipyards in the U.S. Ideally I will find something in Florida, but I have not ruled out looking in Georgia, the Carolinas or further afield. Once we have a facility in place, we will be able to service Baglietto and Cerri yachts there as well. A: I’m in discussion with designer Eric Sorensen, and yes, we will be building new models. A: I am exploring. I’m interested in running some focus groups with designers, owners and brokers to discuss ideas. Maybe we should have a webinar on your magazine. … I think it is important to get some collective feedback on what is best for Bertram and then make a plan of action.