The French marine industry has paid its respects to Tibor Sillinger, founder of the Sillinger shipyard, who has died.
Tibor was born in Hungary and later arrived in France. His journey led him from the status of a stateless immigrant to that of a renowned industrialist and a key figure in the French nautical industry.
He founded the Sillinger shipyard in 1962, a company specialising in inflatable and semi-rigid boats, understanding the potential of this sector.
Focusing on innovation, robustness and quality, Tibor dedicated his life to building, defending and promoting an industry to which he was deeply attached.
Under his leadership, the Sillinger brand became known throughout France and internationally, with customers ranging from maritime professionals to security and defense forces.
Serving the community and the profession
Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Tibor distinguished himself through his commitment to serving the community and the profession.
At the request of Annette Roux, head of the Bénéteau Group, Tibor joined the French Nautical Industries Federation putting his experience and energy at the service of the organisation.
“The partnership they formed would leave a lasting mark on the history of the Federation and French sailing,” said a statement from the FIN.
“Despite their very different personalities, they shared the same ambition: to sustainably structure the industry and strengthen its influence.”
Tibor served as FIN managing director for many years, passionately defending marine businesses, trade shows, innovation, exports and the position of French marine industry on the international stage.
French marine industry
For many, Tibor will remain associated with the Paris International Boat Show which he chaired for more than 20 years, growing the show to become one of the major events in the French marine industry calendar.
In addition to his leadership of the show and the FIN, Tibor’s many contributions to the industry include determinedly lobbying for the Pons law in the 1980s, which helped to support the French nautical industry and his impetus in favour of forming a European marine federation.
“Those who worked alongside him remember a man of integrity, passionate, direct, sometimes volcanic, but always deeply sincere and devoted to the women and men of the profession,” continued the FIN statement.
“Tibor Sillinger believed in French industry, in innovation and in the ability of boating to create jobs and dynamism in maritime and river territories.
“The Federation of Nautical Industries sends its most sincere thoughts to his family, his loved ones and to all those who shared his professional and personal journey.
“The French nautical industry has lost one of its great builders.
“His commitment and legacy will continue to inspire our profession for a long time to come.”
