Date 2 September 2013 Press contact: Lynne DeBeer
For unrestricted release. No date embargo. 401.324.4201ldebeer@huntyachts.com
September 2, 2013, Portsmouth, RI --- “I always think of September and the Newport Boat Show as the start of new boating year and now, as the 2014 model year begins, we have major news to deliver,” said Hunt Yachts’ President Peter Van Lancker. “I am delighted to announce the acquisition of Hunt Yachts, Inc. by Scout Partners, LLC.”
Scout is a partnership between David Howe and Peterson Capital LLC, which was created specifically to work closely with U.S.-based companies that show significant potential for long-term success. Peterson Capital LLC is operated by an icon of American business, Pete Peterson. Peterson’s career spans several decades and includes positions as United States Secretary of Commerce, CEO of Bell and Howell, and co-founder of The Blackstone Group. David Howe has a great personal passion for the marine industry. Having grown up sailing out of Marblehead, Massachusetts, Howe deeply appreciates the strong heritage of Hunt.
Scout purchased The Hinckley Company at the end of 2010. Hinckley President and CEO Jim McManus commented on the acquisition of Hunt “we welcome Peter Van Lancker, all the Hunt Yachts employees and owners to the family of Scout companies. The two companies have much to share and represent a wonderful cultural pairing. Together there is great strength, depth and potential. Boaters who own Hinckleys and Hunts should be thrilled.” The most immediate synergy is in the Hinckley service yards which now have a direct pipeline to Hunt parts and technical advice to service Hunt products.
“I could not have designed a better stage for the future of the Hunt Yachts’ brand, legacy and products than this new ownership and partnership with Scout Partners and Hinckley,” said Hunt’s Van Lancker. “I can tell you that David Howe and the Hinckley team share the passion and enthusiasm to ensure Hunt Yachts of even greater growth, success, and innovation going forward.”
Hunt will operate under the name Hunt Yachts, LLC and will maintain the same relationship it has had with C. Raymond Hunt Associates as the exclusive designer of its product line. The company is headquartered in Portsmouth, RI and currently offers powerboats from 25 to 74 feet.
Note to Editors: high-res images of Hunt Yachts are available for download or can be sent on CD. Please contact Lynne DeBeer for details at ldebeer@huntyachts.com; 401-324-4201(office) or 401-524-6504 (mobile)
