South Florida brokerage house G-Marine has shut up shop after 15 years due to a contractual dispute.
The firm, led by chief executive Alberto Galante, has now filed claims against Marine Nautical Hardware and Rick Obey Yacht Sales alleging “tortious interference with a business relationship, deceptive and unfair trade practices and unfair competition.”
The claims were filed in Miami Dade County Court on January 3.
It is understood the company is seeking more than $1M due to Astondoa’s alleged failure to safeguard G-Marine’s exclusive distribution territory in the US, Mexico, Panama and the Caribbean.
A statement released by Galante said: “After nearly 15 years of successfully selling major brands like Cruiser Yachts, Regal Boats and Fairline Yachts, G-Marine’s business comes to an end as the company is forced to file this legal action and place Astondoa Yachts on notice of default for breach of contract.”
He added: “It is sad that G-Marine, a company and team that worked hard to achieve so much in this competitive industry, be placed in this situation and be required to seek legal remedies for damages caused by companies and individuals who were once considered partners and friends.”