SAXDOR YACHTS ENTERS A NEW CHAPTER WITH MALIBU BOATS
The move comes from a shared vision to further expand globally, advance innovation, and power the company’s next phase of growth.
Saxdor Yachts announces it has been acquired by Malibu Boats, Inc. (MBI), a global leader in designing, manufacturing, and marketing recreational powerboats, founded in 1982 in Loudon, Tennessee, in a transaction valued at approximately €150 million (USD $175 million). Saxdor will operate as a subsidiary of MBI while maintaining its brand identity and operational autonomy.
MBI, a leader in recreational powerboats, generates over USD $800 million in annual revenue, employs more than 2,000 people across eight production facilities, and sells over 5,000 boats annually. Saxdor Yachts, one of the fastest-growing boat manufacturers worldwide, leading technology innovation in the sector, complements this scale with a fleet of 10 boat models ranging from 20 to 46 feet, nearly 1,000 employees and year-on-year revenue growth of 65%, from €109 million in 2024 to €180 million in 2025.
With this announcement, Saxdor Yachts embarks on its next stage of growth. By joining Malibu, the Finnish company gains access to significant resources, shared innovation vision and an established infrastructure positioning the brand for long-term success, particularly in North America. Malibu’s world-class portfolio spans wake sports, luxury runabouts, and saltwater fishing, serving boating enthusiasts across America and beyond. With the addition of Saxdor’s adventure boat capabilities, the combined company is further positioned to expand its global reach across the most important and dynamic recreational boating segment, which is expected to grow at a 15% CAGR according to SSI data (2023-2025).
“We are very excited about the opportunities ahead with Malibu,” said Erna Rusi, CEO of Saxdor. “Their resources, innovation vision, and infrastructure position us for long-term success. Combined with Saxdor’s unique models, efficient production, strong brand, and the talent and continuous dedication of our team, this acquisition unlocks an entirely new level of growth. This milestone is ultimately the result of years of focused execution and the exceptional commitment of our people, who have built Saxdor into what it is today. Malibu is a great cultural fit, and we look forward to the development opportunities this larger organization will offer our team.”
Saxdor confirms it will continue to operate as a standalone global brand, with its management team remaining in place. Saxdor’s brand, commercial model, and partnerships remain foundational as the company begins this next chapter with MBI. Founder and Chief Designer Sakari Mattila will also continue in his role as Head Designer, bringing his full commitment and vision to the brand as it grows within the Malibu family.
Joining Malibu Boats enhances Saxdor’s global growth potential by filling a unique niche in the premium recreational boating market and complementing Malibu’s portfolio – which includes brands like Malibu, Axis, Cobalt, Pursuit, Cobia, Pathfinder, Maverick, and Hewes – offering high-quality boats at competitive price points. Saxdor also brings a new wave of younger and first-time boating customers to the combined portfolio. At the same time, with North America currently representing only a portion of Saxdor’s revenue, the brand sees meaningful opportunity to grow in partnership with MBI.
