Italian private equity firm Riello Investimenti SGR has entered the luxury yachting market with the acquisition of a 60% stake in Italian yacht builder Apreamare.
The acquisition was carried out through the Italian Strategy Private Equity fund, the third fund managed by Riello Investimenti SGR.
As part of the agreement, Cataldo Aprea and Rita Pollio will ensure managerial continuity, maintaining their respective roles as chairman and chief executive officer of the new company.
Apreamare’s roots date back to 1849, when Giovanni Aprea began handcrafting the first fishing boats in Sorrento, a tradition that was handed down through the generations.
The goal of this new synergy is to accelerate the internationalisation and innovation of the brand.
Cataldo Aprea
The turning point came in the late 1980s, when Cataldo Aprea, together with Rita and Salvatore Pollio, founded Apreamare Yacht, combining craftsmanship and innovation in materials and design.
Today, Apreamare is known for the Gozzi Sorrentini, which evokes the spirit of the ‘dolce vita,’ reinterpreted with contemporary lines and the latest technologies.
In 2024, the company recorded revenues of over €20 million, more than 25% of which were generated abroad, supported by a consolidated international presence and a constantly expanding product range.
“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,” said Nicola Riello, chairman of Riello Investimenti SGR.
Development and expansion
“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, added: “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’s portfolio currently includes 11 acquisitions, including three add-ons.
