Various media report LVMH may be interested in acquiring stake of Ferretti Group
LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy) is reportedly interested in acquiring the Riva brand, which is part of Ferretti Group, according to several sources in the yachting industry. While neither LVMH nor Ferretti Group gave any comment on this yet, recent acquisitions by the French luxury holding and the fact that Riva has evolved into a lifestyle brand rather than just a yacht manufacturer lend credibility to these rumors.
'In recent years, Riva has been actively developing the brand through new directions,' note representatives of Riva's official dealer, Petrel Global Ships & Boats. Additionally, Riva has opened several Riva Lounges—stylishly themed lounge bars in some of the world's most exclusive locations. There is also the Riva Classiche division dedicated to vintage boats'. Recently, the company announced the Riva Residenze, a 20-story luxury residential complex in Fort Lauderdale, featuring 36 exclusive apartments designed by superyacht interior designer Giuseppina Arena.
For the first nine months of 2024, the net revenue from Ferretti Group yacht sales reached €865.3 million, reflecting a 3.8% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
LVMH, owned by the Arnault family, is considered the largest luxury goods manufacturer in the world. LVMH has extensive experience in acquiring luxury brands, such as Dior and Moët & Chandon. In 2018, the group acquired Belmond, the operator of the luxury Venice Simplon-Orient Express trains that travel between London, Vienna, and other European cities. This acquisition solidified LVMH's position as a serious player in the luxury travel market, adjacent to yachting. Following this deal, the French holding partnered with Accor to revitalize the legendary brand "Orient Express," which will now also offer sea cruises on luxury sailing yachts. This business direction aligns perfectly with a brand like Riva.
Moreover, LVMH is no stranger to yachting. In 2008, the company acquired the Royal Van Lent division of Feadship Group. In the same year, Bernard Arnault's investment group L Capital 2 FCPR (backed by LVMH and Groupe Arnault) bought a 75 per cent stake in the British shipyard Princess Yachts, which was then sold to US investment group KPS Partners in early 2023. Louis Vuitton is the title sponsor of the America's Cup, the world's most prestigious regatta and the oldest active trophy in sports.
Given the conglomerate's experience in investing in luxury goods and services, including travel and hospitality, industry experts suggest that Riva would fit well within LVMH's portfolio. If the rumors about the acquisition are confirmed, it would mark a significant event in the luxury yacht market and further strengthen LVMH's position in haute living.
