De Wave acquires control of Mobil Line

Goal: double the turnover and increase production – CEO Pompili: “We’re investing in leading marine supply chain expertise”

 

De Wave, the Genoa-based marine outfitting leader for cruise ships in particular, has taken concrete action following its decision to expand in the maxi yacht sector, acquiring control of Mobil Line, a long-established joinery company used by the world’s major shipyards for furnishing large pleasure boats.

 

Mobil Line, headquartered in Vicopisano, the heartland of mega yacht design and construction, benefits from a consolidated market position and enviable reputation as a shipbuilder’s partner of choice for its industrial capabilities, craftsmanship, innovation and unmistakable style.

 

De Wave, which is heading for 2022 turnover of more than 300 million euros with 840 direct employees, completes the Mobil Line transaction on the heels of its recent acquisitions of FCR and Tecnavi, pursuing a clear strategy of bringing all the most important parts of the production process for outfitting cruise ships and super yachts within the group so they can be controlled directly. Integral to this, is retaining and nurturing the professional expertise of the companies acquired, while injecting capital to finance market growth and diversification that would otherwise have been beyond their reach.

 

“We’re following a clear course,” explained De Wave CEO Riccardo Pompili, “with the intention of constantly increasing our core competencies, which are not only industrial but also involve highly-skilled professional and crafts skills that need to be preserved.”

 

The challenge now facing Mobil Line is internationalisation and the export of an outstanding product typical of the strengths that distinguish Italian craftsmanship. The company has a turnover of 10 million euros and employs around 100 shipbuilding supply chain professionals. With its arrival in the De Wave Group, it will benefit from a solid investment programme geared to doubling its turnover while increasing its workforce and manufacturing facilities, which currently extend over 3,000 square metres.

 

Mobil Line’s current order book comprises several vessels for the Palumbo shipyards, including a 50-metre mega yacht and a new vessel (Extra X99 Fast) which will be exhibited at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September.

 

Other acquisitions

 

The De Wave Group recently acquired Tecnavi, a major player in air conditioning, ventilation, refrigeration and technical furnishing systems for cruise ships and offshore platforms. The acquisition has further strengthened De Wave’s leading position in the sector. 

 

A few weeks ago, the Genoa-based group led by Riccardo Pompili also embarked on its international expansion with the acquisition of the Finnish group FCR Finland, which has a strong 10-year track record of building the public areas and cabins on passenger liners and cruise ships. With around 50 specialist employees and a turnover of 28 million euros, FCR is set to further strengthen its strategic position.