If ever there was a top ten, of complicated yachting company histories, then the background behind the brand of Camper & Nicholsons would almost certainly place it at the top of the list.
Despite boasting that it has been yachting since 1782, the company can only trace its name back 1863. Then, financed by both William Camper and the Lapthorn family, who operated an adjacent sail loft, they were joined by John Nicholson and the name began to be used for the first time.
With such a heritage and the ability to claim itself to be: the oldest leisure marine company in the world, the C&N brand name has always had value and has been the subject of many deals.
In 1992 it was acquired by Nick Maris who licensed the name out to various organisations keen to capitalise on the heritage. Maris went on to be come CEO of Camper & Nicholsons Marinas and his Camper & Nicholsons Designs Ltd granted the marina company rights in perpetuity to use the name.
Ferragamo the builder of Nautor Swans was granted the licence to use the name Camper & Nicholsons Yachting.
Maris also allowed the yacht brokerage firm of Camper & Nicholsons International to use the brand on licence under certain conditions.
Now in a somewhat bizarre twist of fate the offspring Camper & Nicholsons International has acquired its mother Camper & Nicholsons Designs Ltd.
Camper & Nicholsons International announced the 100% acquisition of Camper & Nicholsons Designs Ltd on 27th December 2014.
Camper & Nicholsons International CEO Michael Payne commented: “This acquisition is a major step forward in the development and future prosperity of the Camper & Nicholsons’ branded companies.”
The acquisition of the brand name shows significant commitment by the new shareholders of C&NI.
George Nicholson added: “I am delighted with the powerful initiative that has been taken. The brand will be stronger and the acquisition is a consolidation that leads to the enhanced future of the C&N branded companies.”