Summit Programme
08:30 – Registration & Coffee
Welcome Address
Speaker: Ed Slack, Editor, IBI
Topic: “New chapter, same old challenges – How the industry must evolve”
Macro-Economic Outlook & M&A Trends
Presented by: Arnold Holle, Carlsquare
An analysis of current economic conditions in the context of historical cycles, including recovery forecasts and implications for the marine industry. Session includes a review of recent M&A transactions and strategic takeaways shaping future deal activity.
Boatbuilder Perspective – Reinventing the Boatbuilding Business Model
Discussion Topics:
- Should the industry re-evaluate the traditional builder–supplier relationship to foster greater collaboration and resource sharing?
- How can emerging technologies—such as robotics and additive manufacturing—enhance productivity and innovation?
- Is it time to reassess the global manufacturing footprint to optimize cost, efficiency, and responsiveness?
- How can the industry balance increasing demand for product customization with the need to maintain affordability?
- Beyond production: should the focus shift from simply building boats to cultivating compelling, enduring brands?
- Regional competitiveness: Europe vs. Middle East & Asia
Moderator: Ed Slack, IBI
Panelists:
- Gianguido Girotti, CEO, Beneteau Boat Group
- Nicolas Lapp, CEO, Sunreef
- Marco Valle, CEO, Azimut | Benetti
- Jan-Erik Viitala, Founding Partner, Axopar Boats
Charting the Course for the Boat Builder of the Future
Presented by:
Michael Harney & Filippo Gozzi, Partners, McKinsey & Company
Key Topics:
- Defining future business archetypes
- Digital engineering and lifecycle value creation
- Customer experience and value chain expansion
Morning Coffee Break
Procurement Value Generation
Speaker: Avinash Murthy & Tim Schoeppler, Kearney
Avinash Murthy & Tim Schoeppler from Kearney to spotlight cost-saving levers in procurement amid global trade tensions — including how AI and e-sourcing can reshape margins.
Boatbuilder Perspective: Reimagining Legacy Concepts for the Modern Consumer
Key Discussion Topics:
- Is the boating sector hindered by an outdated or misaligned public image?
- In a world of time-constrained, asset-rich consumers, how can boating effectively compete with other aspirational lifestyle markets?
- What strategies can broaden appeal and increase diversity among future generations of boaters?
- How does the shift from ownership to experience-based consumption impact business models and marketing?
- Can technology act as a catalyst to redefine user engagement and enhance the boating experience?
- With a customer journey often seen as fragmented and costly, what innovations are needed to streamline, simplify, and elevate the end-to-end consumer experience?
Moderator: Ed Slack, IBI
Panelists:
- Ashley Highfield, CEO, Oyster Yachts
- Jasper Smith, CEO, Arksen
- Norbert Leifeld, CEO, Bavaria Yachts
- Erna Rusi, CEO, Saxdor Yachts
Standing Lunch
Fireside Chat: Brunswick CEO, Dave Foulkes
In discussion with: IBI Editor, Ed Slack
Insights into Brunswick’s ongoing transformation, driven by technology innovation, integrated ecosystems, and scalable recurring-revenue models.
Investors in Boat Building: Stormy Seas or Calmer Waters Ahead?
In discussion with: Arnold Holle, Managing Partner, Carlsquare
Sunseeker CEO Andrea Frabetti and Brunswick CEO Dave Foulkes join Marc Diening, CEO of PPF Nautical, seasoned sector investor Stephen Julius, founder of Stellican Ltd, and Giancarlo Galeone of Faro Alternative Investments, the private equity fund that recently acquired Sunseeker, to share insights into their strategies, experiences, and expectations for returns in a rapidly evolving market
Moderator: Arnold Holle, Carlsquare
Panelists:
- Stephen Julius, CEO, Stellican Ltd
- Dave Foulkes, CEO, Brunswick
- Marc Diening, CEO, PPF Nautical
- Andrea Frabetti, CEO, Sunseeker
- Giancarlo Galeone, Faro Investments
Fireside Chat: Fundraising in a Challenging Market
Speaker: Sue Putallaz, CEO, MobyFly
In discussion with: Alex Carré de Malberg, Managing Partner, Carlsquare
Closing Remarks
Speaker: Ed Slack, Editor, IBI