Sunseeker International (Sunseeker) is pleased to announce that it is implementing a phased return to work for all its employees starting as early as next week.
Given the complexity of operations, it is necessary to bring employees back in a controlled manner that will allow us to move to full production over the coming few weeks. The phased approach allows us to ensure that all the safety measures we have put in place work seamlessly, providing employees with the confidence that they are coming back to a safe place of work.
Re-starting production will allow us to deliver those boats previously in build and the many on order from across the world. Owners are keen to take delivery of boats previously ordered so they can use this season and a catch up plan will attempt to reduce the backlog.
A great deal of work has been taking place to ensure the safety of employees, suppliers, visitors and finished boats. Working in close cooperation with all departments, Sunseeker’s in-house Health & Safety team has defined strict protocols, working practices and guidelines for all employees to support the very safest environment, wherever they work within the business.
As well as the issuing and guidance of how to use PPE, factories have been laid out with one-way systems and wide thoroughfares to ensure social distancing is maintained. Meanwhile, additional hygiene and cleaning stations have been introduced companywide to ensure equipment and tools can be methodically cleaned whilst boats are sanitized thoroughly at every stage of production and then ‘deep-cleaned’ again prior to hand-over.
Separately, all Warranty and Parts functions will be fully operational during June, ensuring that customers receive the service they require as they return to using their boats. In support of their inability to use their boat over recent weeks, Sunseeker is offering an extended two month factory warranty for any boat in warranty as of 23/03/20 – an industry first.
Commenting on the announcement, Andrea Frabetti, CEO said “We are excited to be getting back to work. Our goal now is to achieve safe efficient production over the coming weeks so we can deliver boats to our customers who understandably, are keen to get afloat this summer. In parallel, our new model development programme continues at a pace in order that we can offer the very latest range which is on course to double in size by 2022. I’d like to personally thank our clients, employees and suppliers for their patience during this enforced period of shutdown. We are fortunate to be able to return to work, to do what we love and deliver on the passion we all have for this industry. Now, more than ever, the country needs us to do what we do best which will help deliver exports and support the economy. As a proud UK manufacturer, we are eager to play our own small part in returning it to prosperity.”
About Sunseeker International Limited:
Sunseeker is the world’s leading brand for luxury performance motor yachts. Originally named Poole Power Boats, the company was founded by brothers Robert and John Braithwaite in 1969. The company changed its name to Sunseeker International in 1985 and has since become a global icon, with every Sunseeker the result of an uncompromising and unmatched approach to design, craftsmanship and performance.
In August 2013 a majority stake in the business was acquired by Wanda Group, the Beijing headquartered conglomerate with strong footprints across China, Europe and the US. Wanda Group is a committed long-term shareholder providing strong financial and strategic backing for Sunseeker’s continued growth and success.
From its manufacturing base in Poole, Dorset on the south coast of England, Sunseeker employs c.2,500 people and produces around 150 boats every year ranging from 38-161 feet.
Poole is also the home to Sunseeker’s dedicated Design & Technology Centre, a unique facility which vertically integrates every detail of the yachts from the initial concept designs through to the finishing details including furniture, complex electrical systems, helm consoles and soft furnishings. As Sunseeker produces these components in its own dedicated facility, it is able to offer exceptionally high quality control, craftsmanship and attention to detail.
In 2021, Sunseeker International will launch its first production yacht with hybrid power. As early as 2009, the company laid the basis for a hybrid propulsion system on board in tests that were carried out on a prototype yacht – a truly pioneering step.
Sunseeker’s continual investment in research and development is evident, not only in the application of world-class innovation, but also in the design and construction of its boats. New materials and propulsion systems are continually developed and introduced to the range to offer improved environmental impact, better handling and better comfort on board. Going forward, Sunseeker is investing in new materials and features to improve sound and ambient air quality for its customers.
When customers want something even more distinctive, buyers of the larger Yacht models can benefit from the company’s ‘Bespoke’ customisation service which allows individual customers to personalise their yacht.
Demand for the company’s larger models continues to grow year-on-year with more than 130 yachts over 30m in length already delivered. This increase in demand for larger models has been the driving force behind Sunseeker’s truly momentous plans to expand its manufacturing into the world of metal-built yachts. This exciting new development will see Sunseeker produce its largest superyacht ever, the Ocean Club 50.
Working very closely with highly professional dealer representation in over 74 countries, service and product support is a key priority in maintaining customer satisfaction.
As a prominent business within the county and one of Dorset’s largest employers, Sunseeker continues its work with charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity that resonates with its employees who have already raised donations approaching £100,000 during just two years. In addition, it continues its support of their annual Dorset Bike Ride which has raised over £1million since Sunseeker’s involvement began.
Most recently Sunseeker announced a long-term partnership with the Blue Marine Foundation (BLUE), a charity dedicated to creating marine reserves around the world and improving biodiversity. With the future of healthy seas and oceans at risk, Sunseeker supports BLUE in its widest sense including a unique campaign titled ‘Project Menorca’ which will focus on the island’s marine environment. Working closely with BLUE, the new partnership will establish a recognised model of conservation, supported by local partners on the island including the Menorca Preservation Fund.
The Sunseeker range constantly sets new standards and benchmarks. From the majestic Superyacht and Yachts range, through to the luxurious Manhattan range, the iconic Predator models, dynamic Sports Yacht and the agile Performance range, each Sunseeker is the result of an uncompromising approach to innovative design and engineering excellence. Never settling for second best, it is this spirit of excellence that has driven Sunseeker to its pre-eminent position in the leisure marine industry today.
The current 19 boat range consists of:
Superyacht Ocean Club 50, Ocean Club 42, 131, 116
Yacht 100, 95, Ocean Club Ninety, 86, 76
Sport Yacht 74, 65
Predator 74, 60, 55, 50
Manhattan 68, 55, 52
Performance Hawk 38
