MarineMax acquires SkipperBud’s, expanding to 20 new locations
MarineMax has acquired marine service company, SkipperBud’s, and its affiliate, Silver Seas, ex-panding MarineMax’s service area to 20 new locations. The move will “deepen the North-South-West connection [in the US] for both organisations and their customers”.
With the acquisition, MarineMax adds 20 locations in Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, California, Washington and Florida. It also grows MarineMax’s real estate holdings with the addition of 11 marina and storage facilities.
SkipperBud’s was founded more than 60 years ago by founder, Michael Pretasky Sr. It special-ises in operating marinas and boat storage and has become one of the yachting industry’s largest dealership and marina operators. Led for the past 14 years by Pretasky Jr., the company has seen significant growth and expansion of its locations making it the ideal acquisition target, according to MarineMax.
Brett McGill, CEO and President of MarineMax, said: “We are very excited to expand with such a great organisation as SkipperBud’s, who we have known for many years and who share our values and culture.”
McGill continued: “The acquisition expands our geographic reach, but it also provides us the op-portunity to leverage our business and brand infrastructure across the country, better enabling us to serve customers in all markets. The acquisition aligns with our long-term strategy to grow the boating lifestyle and support those who already love it.
“We are excited to have Mike Pretasky Jr. join our management team and lead our new locations. Mike has a proven track record in the marine industry and will help lead the company to continued growth.”
Pretasky, Jr. added: “We have been long-time industry partners of MarineMax and have similar values of taking care of our customers and our team. We are excited about joining the MarineMax team. Gaining access to their exclusive brands will further drive our growth, especially in larger yachts. The combination of both organisations enables SkipperBud’s to take advantage of multiple growth opportunities in the future.”