Superyacht Builder Sanlorenzo in Talks to Buy a Majority Stake in Perini Navi

Superyacht builder Sanlorenzo has confirmed interest in the possible acquisition of Perini Navi.

Sanlorenzo has confirmed they are in current talks regarding the acquisition of share capital of Perini Navi and has obtained an exclusivity period to carry out the necessary research and analysis required.

Founded in 1983 by Fabio Perini, Perini Navi has been a world-leading Italian shipyard that specializes in sailing boats over 40 meters, boasting iconic builds like that of the Maltese Falcon. It is currently owned by Fenix, the holding company of the Tabacchi family, Lamberto Tacoli, and Fabio Perini (indirectly).

Should the negotiations go ahead, Perini Navi will likely be majority-owned by Sanlorenzo with Italian newspaper Milano Finanza reporting a probable 70% controlling stake taken by Sanlorenzo and the remainder being held by the Tabacchi family.

“The transaction would be in line with the Sanlorenzo business model … and would enable Sanlorenzo to expand its business perimeter and further consolidate its presence in the superyacht sector,” Sanlorenzo said in a statement.

In a separate statement by Perini Navi, the company confirmed it was looking to restructure its debt under Italian bankruptcy law, in order to remain operational at this time stating the goal is to “overcome a moment of significant financial strain, which has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 outbreak and its impact over all markets.”

Perini Navi’s Board of Directors “intends to preserve the Company’s business and heritage, thus ensuring continuity to the important orders currently in build, as well as achieving the highest possible level of creditors’ satisfaction, in compliance with the process to be undertaken.”