Private equity fund acquires 60 per cent of Apreamare

Italy’s Apreamare shipyard has sold a 60 per cent stake of its share capital to Italian private equity firm Riello Investimenti SGR.

The acquisition was made through the Italian Strategy Private Equity fund, the third fund managed by Riello Investimenti SGR, which currently holds 11 acquisitions, including three add-ons.

As part of the agreement, Cataldo Aprea and Rita Pollio will continue in their positions as chairman and CEO of the company.

Apreamare traces its roots back to 1849 when Giovanni Aprea built the first fishing boats in Sorrento. The company took a new direction in the late 1980s when Cataldo Aprea, along with Rita and Salvatore Pollio, established Apreamare Yacht, combining traditional craftsmanship with updated materials and design.

Apreamare is recognised for its Gozzi Sorrentini vessels, which reflect Mediterranean style and Italian craftsmanship. In 2024, the company reported revenues of more than €20m, with over 25 per cent generated abroad.

Nicola Riello, chairman of Riello Investimenti SGR, says: “We are very proud of this new transaction which, in line with our approach, involved the participation and reinvestment of the Aprea and Pollio families, ensuring that managerial continuity which represents a fundamental factor in the experience and development of the nautical sector.

“The deal also foresees a significant injection of financial resources into the company, which will support Apreamare in the development and expansion of the shipyard and in the launch of new yacht models. This acquisition confirms our strategy, aimed at investing in iconic Italian excellence brands and companies with high growth and development potential.”

Cataldo Aprea, chairman of Apreamare, adds: “The entry of Riello Investimenti SGR represents a new and ambitious chapter in the history of our shipyard. The goal of this new synergy is to accelerate the internationalisation and innovation of the brand, while never betraying our artisanal authenticity.”

Riello Investimenti SGR is an independent asset management company active for 25 years in alternative investments. It operates across private equity, private debt and venture capital asset classes. Since its inception, the company has completed more than 50 transactions, with total assets exceeding €500m.

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