Chicago, IL — The White River Marine Group (“White River” or the “Buyer”), a Bass Pro Shops affiliate, has announced the successful acquisition of Hatteras Yachts (“Hatteras” or the “Company”) from affiliates of Versa Capital Management, LLC (“Versa”). FocalPoint Partners, LLC (“FocalPoint”) served as the exclusive financial advisor to the Company.
Headquartered in New Bern, North Carolina, Hatteras is a premier designer and manufacturer of luxury sportfishing and cruising motor yachts worldwide. Founded over half a century ago with its roots in sportfishing, the Hatteras brand has become the gold standard in the luxury yacht space, serving as the global benchmark for both quality and innovation. Ranging from 45 feet to over 100 feet, Hatteras yachts are known for their premium on-water performance combined with luxury amenities. The Company’s reputation for unparalleled craftmanship and service has helped establish Hatteras as one of the most iconic and world-renowned luxury yacht brands.
“We are extremely satisfied with the outcome of this transaction and the contributions of all parties involved. As a part of the Bass Pro family, we know the Hatteras brand will thrive under their ownership,” said Gary Smith, CEO of Hatteras. “FocalPoint worked with a wide array of interested parties to explore various transaction structures in order to maximize the long-term value of the brand and associated assets. The ultimate decision to go with White River and Bass Pro was an easy choice given their reputation and vision for the Company, our employees, and the facility.”
“We are inspired by the many similarities between the pride and passion of the master boatbuilders from our home in the Ozarks and the legendary boatbuilders of North Carolina and the New Bern area. We’re committed to support Hatteras in staying true to its roots as a legendary saltwater brand built by a passion for fishing while expanding our operations to better serve all those who love the sea,” said Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris. “This is not just a business investment for us,” added Morris. “It’s at the heart of who we are. Fishing, boating, and conservation have been lifelong shared passions in our company.”
“This closing represents an outstanding outcome for both the Company and its new partner, while highlighting the creativity and continued success of FocalPoint’s Special Situations practice,” said Michael Fixler, Managing Director at FocalPoint. “We thoroughly enjoyed working with Hatteras and its private equity sponsor, Versa, as well as the Bass Pro team, and look forward to watching them expand upon the traditions that have made Hatteras so iconic over the years.”
About Versa Capital Management
Versa Capital Management, LLC is a private equity investment firm focused on control investments involving middle market companies and their management teams. Versa focuses on businesses in a diverse array of industries where value and performance growth can be achieved through enhanced strategic, operational and financial management. For more information, please visit www.Versa.com.
About Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group
Founded in 1972 and headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, Bass Pro Shops is a premier operator of retail and online stores for recreational and leisure products for outdoor enthusiasts. Through its affiliate, White River Marine Group, the company has become the world’s largest boat manufacturer. The family of brands includes TRACKER BOATS, the No. 1 fishing boat in America for the past 45 years; ASCEND, the world’s best-selling kayak; and other leading brands including MAKO, Ranger, Triton, Tahoe, Nitro, and others. For more information, please visit www.basspro.com or www.whiterivermg.com.
About FocalPoint Partners
FocalPoint is a leading investment bank specializing in mergers and acquisitions, private placements (debt and equity), financial restructurings, and special situation transactions. With offices in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, and Shanghai, the firm provides global advisory services to middle market clients and has a dedicated Special Situations practice. Visit focalpointllc.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.
For more information about the Hatteras transaction, please contact Michael Fixler, Managing Director, at 216-533-0535 or Matthew Cumbee, Director, at 312-401-5255.