Episode 99: Paul Taylor on the Future of Fairline Yachts – Can This Iconic Brand Make a Comeback?

Fairline Yachts has had its tumultuous times – has it reached safe hands now?

The boating industry is going through a transition period for the next 10 years or so, in my view. Those who created the manufacturing businesses, marinas and small enterprises are entering their retirement phase and, as a result, someone has to take over — or sadly, sometimes they simply shut down.

Often the skill set isn’t available in adequate numbers to pass it on, or the generational handover is not there, or simply not interested. In some cases, investment funds or private equity have recognised this shift and are entering a market that is entirely new to them.

It’s a unique industry. With funny words, unusual problems, and a solid requirement for reinvestment. What some of these businesses have historically lacked, however, is strong financial management skills, clear growth strategies and financial backing (banks have, for some unknown reason, always been extremely cautious with LVRs in this sector).

And so we get to my next podcast interviewee.

Starting in the banking industry before most of us would normally leave school, Paul Taylor brings a wealth of financial experience and strength as the new owner of Fairline Yachts, alongside his partner Robin Southwell OBE. Paul also had a period invested in marinas, with the second-largest European marina at Vilamoura in Portugal.

It was a delight to interview Paul on the back of a Fairline Targa 50 at the Southampton Boat Show. Having someone with a brain like his to delve into brings insight, intriguing ideas and genuine hope that Fairline is now in steady hands.

I hope you enjoy it.

🎙️ Listen to the episode: 👉 The Boat Princess Podcast: https://theboatprincess.com/podcast

🚤 Learn more about Fairline: 👉 https://www.fairline.com⚓ Southampton Boat Show: 👉 https://www.southamptonboatshow.com

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