Highfield on expansion drive

Highfield, which lays claim to being the world’s largest manufacturer of aluminium-hull rigid inflatable boats (RIBs), is looking at aggressively expanding its presence in the global RIB market.

The manufacturer, which has its sights set on being number one in the market within five years, gave IBI an insight into its strategy for 2020 at the Dusseldorf boat show last week.

While 2019 saw it focus on updating its model range below 5m, this year will see attention turn to its larger 5m-plus portfolio, which currently comprises five models. It will also look to rationalise its extensive range that presently runs to 34 vessels across eight boat types, consolidating that to four in a bid to present a simpler, more cohesive offering to both customers and its dealers base.

Founded just nine years ago, Highfield builds around 5,000 boats a year, but foresees the potential for more than tripling its sales in the 5m-plus segment.

Highfield operates from a state-of-the-art production facility is located in Weihai, China, under European management. The facility covers more than 100,000 square feet, employs 200 staff and has adopted the latest technologies. The manufacturer has dealers and distributors in over 40 countries.