RS Sailing has secured a significant long-term investment from two marine-industry heavyweights, positioning the world’s leading dinghy brand for its next phase of strategic growth. Swedish marine investor Fredriksborgs Förvaltnings AB and the owners of Rototek Ltd have joined forces to back the renowned sailboat manufacturer, bringing deep sector knowledge and a shared passion for the sport.
Fredriksborgs is an investment company with a portfolio of established marine businesses, while the owners of Rototek Ltd are equally well known in the industry, having manufactured RS hulls for more than 25 years. The deal capitalises on RS Sailing’s dedicated global following and its world-leading range of boats, putting the brand on a strong footing for growth backed by people who truly understand the marine world.
Peter Rönnbäck, Chairman of Fredriksborgs Förvaltnings AB, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are delighted to have the opportunity to partner with RS Sailing on its journey as the market-leading small sailboat brand,” he said. “RS Sailing has a superb range of sailboats and has created a community of sailors that is vital to the future of our sport and our industry. I have been a sailor all my life, starting as most do with dinghy sailing at my local club. We are excited to be part of the journey with RS Sailing that provides so many with their gateway to our sport, and then embraces them into an ecosystem that creates sailors for life.”
Steff Wright, Chairman of Rototek Ltd, also shared his perspective. “Our Nottinghamshire-based rotational-moulding company has been a key partner to the RS Sailing business for over 25 years,” Wright noted. “As the business has become the leading brand across the globe, I look forward to working more closely with the dynamic team that have built the RS business alongside the wider RS Sailing community.”
Alex Newton-Southon, Managing Director of RS Sailing, underlined the significance of the deal for the brand and its community. “This is strong, long-term backing from people who understand our industry and our heritage,” he said. “Rototek have built our boats for a quarter of a century and Fredriksborgs brings deep marine experience and a genuine love of sailing. Together they give us the backing to keep doing what RS does best: building great boats and inspiring generations on the water.”
Newton-Southon also addressed the broader RS Sailing community directly. “To our dealers, class associations and every RS sailor, thank you for your support. It’s been a challenging period, and we especially thank our suppliers for their support and understanding. Together we continue to serve you and inspire others to join. We have exciting plans for the season ahead.”
