Saxdor Yachts Sets Course with Malibu Boats
Saxdor Yachts and Malibu Boats are aligning around a shared ambition: global expansion, accelerated innovation, and a bold new phase of growth for one of Europe’s most dynamic boatbuilders.
Helsinki, Finland – 3 March 2026 – Saxdor Yachts has been acquired by Malibu Boats, Inc. (MBI), the U.S. powerhouse in recreational powerboat design and manufacturing, founded in 1982 in Loudon, Tennessee. The transaction, valued at approximately €150 million (USD $175 million), positions Saxdor as a subsidiary of MBI, retaining its brand identity and operational independence.
MBI brings significant scale to the partnership, generating more than USD $800 million in annual revenue, employing over 2,000 people across eight production facilities, and delivering more than 5,000 boats each year. Saxdor, one of the fastest‑growing boat manufacturers globally and a leader in marine technology innovation, complements this strength with a portfolio of 10 models from 20 to 46 feet, nearly 1,000 employees, and exceptional momentum—posting 65% year‑on‑year revenue growth from €109 million in 2024 to €180 million in 2025.
With this acquisition, Saxdor enters a new era. The Finnish brand gains access to Malibu’s extensive resources, innovation ecosystem, and established North American infrastructure, unlocking long‑term opportunities in the world’s most influential boating market. Malibu’s portfolio spans wake sports, luxury runabouts, and saltwater fishing, serving a broad community of boating enthusiasts. The addition of Saxdor’s adventure‑oriented fleet strengthens the combined group’s position in one of the industry’s most dynamic segments, projected to grow at a 15% CAGR between 2023 and 2025 according to SSI data.
Erna Rusi, CEO of Saxdor:
“We are very excited about the opportunities ahead with Malibu. Their resources, innovation vision, and infrastructure position us for long-term success. Combined with Saxdor’s unique models, efficient production, strong brand, and the talent and continuous dedication of our team, this acquisition unlocks an entirely new level of growth. This milestone is ultimately the result of years of focused execution and the exceptional commitment of our people, who have built Saxdor into what it is today. Malibu is a great cultural fit, and we look forward to the development opportunities this larger organization will offer our team.”
Saxdor reinforces that it will continue operating as an independent global brand, with its full management team remaining in place. The company’s commercial model, partnerships, and brand identity stay central as it enters this new phase under MBI. Founder and Chief Designer Sakari Mattila will also remain in his role, ensuring continuity of vision and design leadership as the brand grows within the Malibu family.
Joining Malibu Boats significantly amplifies Saxdor’s global growth potential. Saxdor fills a distinct niche in the premium recreational boating market and complements Malibu’s broad portfolio, which includes Malibu, Axis, Cobalt, Pursuit, Cobia, Pathfinder, Maverick, and Hewes, offering high‑quality boats at competitive price points. The Finnish brand also brings a younger and more first‑time‑buyer demographic into the group’s ecosystem. With North America currently representing only a fraction of Saxdor’s revenue, the partnership opens substantial room for expansion in the world’s largest boating market
