Winnebago has agreed to buy Barletta Pontoon Boats for $320 million in a deal that will further expand its marine business. Winnebago builds RVs, travel trailers and boats with brands including Grand Design, and Newmar. Barletta which was founded in 2017 is owned by brothers Ronald Fenech and William Fenech. William Fenech will remain the president of Barletta, within the newly created marine division. Winnebago already owns the boat manufacturer Chris-Craft, which it purchased in 2018. This will be the third largest acquisition by Winnebago
The pandemic has introduced a lot of new consumers to outdoor recreation, a trend Winnebago believes is here to stay. Party boats are usually used in lakes and can be used for a variety of family fun on the water. Pontoon boats are safe, stable and fun. Not only can you cruise around the lake, modern party boats allow you to also wakeboard, waterski and go tubing.