Ronstan acquired
Australian-based company, Ronstan International has been acquired by the global Wichard Group.
13 November 2023
Advertisement
With a century-long legacy in the sailing and industrial industries, Wichard Group is known for its high-quality forged stainless steel fittings and esteemed brands like Lorima, Sparcraft, Facnor, Profurl, Courant, and Peguet.
Founded in 1953 by Ron Allatt and Stan Lenepveu and headquartered in Braeside, Victoria, Ronstan specialises in the design and manufacture of blocks, winches, track systems and other essential equipment for sailing, boating and water sports.
In a statement, Ronstan said, “The strategic fit between Ronstan and the Wichard Group is truly remarkable, combining complementary product ranges, shared engineering expertise, and expanded manufacturing capacities.
Advertisement
“This partnership will strengthen our well-established sales and distribution networks, offering you enhanced accessibility to our products and services globally.
“Drawing upon the extensive capabilities within the Wichard Group, we are committed to providing unique advantages and unlocking new opportunities for future development. We remain dedicated to delivering unparalleled quality, reliability, and innovation as we embark on this transformative journey together.”
Wichard Group stated that the acquisition of Ronstan, which produces sailing equipment, industrial and architectural products, strengthens the group’s position in the deck fittings sector, while expanding its product portfolio and offering growth opportunities in global markets.
“With Ronstan becoming part of the Wichard Group, we have achieved a major milestone in the development of our strategy as a manufacturer and seller to the global marine and safety sectors,” says Jean-Claude Ibos, president of the group.
“We are now in a position to meet the needs and expectations of our customers worldwide with a comprehensive range of products and expertise. This strengthens the consistency of our positioning based on performance and safety. We are all very excited about the upcoming partnerships and challenges to be met. Our new partners share our team spirit, which was essential, and I’d like to thank them.”
Scot West, Managing Director of Ronstan, emphasised that Ronstan and the Wichard Group complement each other perfectly at every level.
“As manufacturers, our expertise and manufacturing processes go hand in hand, as do our sales and distribution networks and the product ranges we offer to the global sailing community,” he said.
“Like the other entities in the Wichard Group, Ronstan is also active in specific industrial sectors such as safety and architecture.”
With the acquisition of Ronstan, the Wichard Group now has over 550 employees worldwide and a turnover of €100 million. This acquisition is also an excellent opportunity to strengthen the group’s position in its historic markets by offering a comprehensive product range. This already included aluminium and carbon masts, sail furlers, deck fittings, safety equipment and ropes. It will now include a range of winches, tracks, blocks and other accessories.
The Wichard Group becomes the owner of Ronstan International Pty Ltd, which remains the parent company of all Ronstan Group companies. The management of Ronstan will be continuing in their current positions.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
