Sunseeker is looking to hire more than 100 workers to support the introduction of new models in 2016. The first of these new models is the 40 metre Sunseeker 131, which will be unveiled at the London Boat Show in January.
The recent findings of the 2016 Global Order Book have shown that there are more superyachts being built around the world now than at any time since the financial crisis. This news from Sunseeker further demonstrates the increasing strength of the superyacht industry.
Sunseeker has laid off several hundred employees over the last few years and reportedly made a loss of £41 million in 2014. According to Sunseeker these results were a reflection of market conditions, but the UK based yacht builder expects to make a profit next year as it expands its operations.
The new employees will be based at Sunseeker's manufacturing operations in Dorset, where they will be involved primarily in construction and engineering. The recruitment drive aims to bring in a number of trades including carpentry, plumbing and electrical, mechanical engineering and composites, laminating and GRP finishing.
“We are pleased to announce these recruitment plans which give a clear signal of the positive times ahead at Sunseeker," said CEO Phil Popham, who is aiming to support future growth with the addition of new models in 2016.
Unite the union, Britain’s biggest trade union, has spotted the potential for this opportunity to help some of the skilled workers who were made redundant when Fairline Boats went into administration. Union leaders said they “will be talking to Sunseeker’s HR department as a matter of urgency.”