The UK’s Fox’s Marina, Boatyard and Chandlery has been acquired by Morgan Marine which has established a new entity, Morgans Group.
Fox’s Marina & Boatyard was established in 1927 and has been under the same ownership for the past 40 years.
The business will now be part of the newly formed Morgans Group.
The companies say the acquisition will allow for closer collaboration and shared expertise, supporting improved efficiency, broader capabilities and enhanced resilience, while allowing Fox’s to retain its independent character and customer-focused approach.
The decision to sell Fox’s represents a ‘considered step’ by the owners to secure continued stability, investment and opportunity, while preserving the values, people and service that have defined the business for generations.
The acquisition secures Fox’s future as the premier yacht service yard on the East Coast and one of the finest facilities of its kind in the UK.
Sir Richard Matthews
Fox’s will continue to operate as a full-service facility specialising in yacht refit and repair, alongside its chandlery.
The new owners are emphasising that customer service will remain unchanged, with both businesses continuing to trade under their existing names, with the same leadership team and staff, locations and contact details.
Will Taylor-Jones will remain as managing director and financial management will continue to be overseen by Mark Underwood.
Sir Richard Matthews will also remain involved with the business as non-executive chairman.
Securing the future
“As the owner of Fox’s for over 40 years, I am delighted to pass the business to new, committed owners who have made such a such success of their Morgan Marine business,” he said.
“The acquisition secures Fox’s future as the premier yacht service yard on the East Coast and one of the finest facilities of its kind in the UK.
“Much of the Morgan business will be complementary to Fox’s activities allowing an even wider range of products and services.”
He continued: “Fox’s Chandlery is already established as a leader on the East Coast and the joint ownership of Morgan and Fox’s outlets will offer even more choice, value and service to all customers.
We’re incredibly proud to welcome Fox’s into the Morgan Marine group.
Oli Miller
“I am particularly pleased that the proven management team at Fox’s will continue, helping to take the business from strength to strength as it approaches its 100th anniversary.”
Morgan Marine, based in Brightlingsea, Essex, provides boat sales, engineering, boatyard services and chandlery support, and is a partner to several brands including Jeanneau, Nimbus, Highfield, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki and Mercury.
“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Fox’s into the Morgan Marine group,” said Oli Miller, COO, Morgans Group.
“With its outstanding reputation, first-class facilities, and a loyal, highly skilled team, Fox’s is a natural fit for us. Together, we’re stronger for the long term, with exciting opportunities for development and growth.”
Ongoing success story
Graham Miller, CEO, Morgans Group, added: “Throughout our ownership of Morgan Marine, we have recognised the importance of constant evolution.
“No company can afford to ignore it; you may be at the top of the pile today, but you’ll be firmly at the bottom tomorrow if you do not move forward.
“In Fox’s we have a tremendous group of people who have earned the finest reputation in their field.
“We look forward to meeting everyone at Fox’s, and being part of an ongoing success story.”
