The AzimutBenetti group is acclaimed worldwide as the leading yacht-manufacturing company. Established in 1969 by Paolo Vitelli, AzimutBenetti continues to push the boundaries of quality, design, and performance.
In a dismal year for most companies, AzimutBenetti belongs to the minority that have found themselves booming. To understand how the company has dealt with the current crisis, Georgia Today spoke with Giorgi Chikvaidze, the Regional Director of Azimut Yachts Georgia, and Irakli Papiashvili, the Deputy CEO.
HOW HAS THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC AFFECTED THE YACHTING INDUSTRY AND AzimutBenetti IN PARTICULAR?
During the pandemic, Azimut Yachts Georgia has seen yacht sales increase significantly, and Georgia has shown an abnormally high interest in the yachting industry in general. I think this is largely due to the rising number of people seeing boating as a way to enjoy the outdoors while avoiding the crowds and interaction. Isolating with one’s loved ones on a yacht has never been more appealing.
It is far easier to purchase yachts in Georgia than, for instance, in Europe and America; this is due to the unique government decree that frees the industry from tax levies. So, to support our customers in times of such crisis, we’ve been selling yachts at net prices. We aim to ensure the flourishing of the industry in Georgia; monetary gain can never overpower such values.
WHAT ARE THE CORE VALUES THAT AzimutBenetti UPHOLDS?
The Italian yachting industry is a production sector of quality and excellence, recognized worldwide. Our values include maximizing product quality, going the extra mile to gratify our clients, maintaining workplace safety, and safeguarding the environment through the adoption of eco-friendly technology.
WHAT OTHER FEATURES MAKE AzimutBenetti YACHTS STAND OUT FROM THE REST?
Many of our latest models have been designed by Alberto Mancini, whose craft is unrivaled in the world of superyachts. The Magellano 25 is a unique yacht, an object of timeless beauty, far removed from passing fashions and trends.
We’re now collaborating with Fendi and Giorgio Armani, who will design interiors for our new models. We’re also actively collaborating with banks to offer practically zero-interest loans to our clients.
WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?
In January, we plan to present one of our new compact models, the Flybridge 58. The state-of-the-art technology and comfort inside the 16-meter superstructure are sure to leave clients amazed. The model’s air filtration system is so advanced that it can even tackle the spread of viruses; we bought this high-end technology from NASA.
Azimut Yachts is also preparing for big marketing events that aim to raise awareness of the yachting industry and its importance for Georgia’s overall economic welfare. Georgia is now beginning to see its maritime sector as the backbone of international trade- something which promises huge possibilities for the country.
By Elene Dzebisashvili
