Azimut, a brand synonymous with the most luxurious of motor yachts, has its tentacles spread worldwide to over 130 customer service sites.

The executive offices in Avigliana Italy which oversees production in a number of countries is also home to one of their factories dedicated to production of fibreglass yachts under 72 feet.

Viareggio (Italy) is another boat yard and styling lounge best described as a luxury workshop architecturally designed so prospective owners might oversee the construction of their boat. Vessels produced here are upwards of 75 feet.

Savona Port in Varazze (Italy) is the site of Azimut’s state-of-the-art service and delivery centre where new boat buyers receive their two-day introductory handover.

Another factory at Orhangazi Bursa (Turkey) builds Azimut’s entry-level yachts and another at Itajai (Brazil) constructs a number of other models.

A global network of this size is rare in today’s economic climate so it was interesting to see where this manufacturer of luxury motor yachts positions itself now and in the future.

We chanced a brief discussion with Massimiliano Amato, after-sales manager of Azimut yachts, Azimut-Benetti Group who was on a whirlwind visit to Sydney. Mr Amato was visiting the Australian Azimut dealer 5 Star Motor Cruisers in Pyrmont.

Q. “ Massimiliano, we are told that the Azimut-Benetti Group are privately owned and fully capitalised which in the current global economic climate is surprising to say the least. Is that correct and obviously such a position would instil confidence in the minds of prospective buyers?

A. “Yes, we can make plans long term without a care about the financial ups and downs of the world as they happen. This is very important to give us financial security and our customers are also assured.”

Q. “You have many different models?”

A. “There are 40 models at the moment.”

Q. “How many are you showcasing in Australia presently?”

A. “About 10”.

Q. “What does Azimut have in mind for new models and will we see them float in Australia?”

A. “One soon to come to your country is the Magellano 50 but at this stage I am unable to give you further details including pricing.”

Q. “The forecast trend is for manufacture in general to shift from bases in China to India to capitalise on rapid growth and low overhead costs on offer there. Azimut-Benetti has representative offices, a service centre and a sales network with five dealers in China. Does the company have any intentions of formulating a base of some sort in India; perhaps in manufacture?”

A. “I think we are setting up in Brazil. The tax imputations in Brazil are very high; nearly 100 per cent, so we set up at no other place.”

Q. “The economic outlook globally is quite precarious and obviously your company is very secure financially. How do you view the economic outlook as far as Australia is concerned?”

A. “Australia I feel is very interesting market; a solid market that is much different from Italy. It is the right place for our models because of the environment and the people. Our target is here, I think it is very interesting.”

Q. “Maximillion, I am sure the marine industry will appreciate your confidence in this country; please enjoy the rest of your stay.”

A. “Thank you, I am sure to.”

For more information on Azimut motor yachts go to www.5starmotorcruisers.com.au or phone (02) 9518 7777.

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