Fox's Marina & Boatyard has today announced a change of ownership, marking a significant milestone in the long-term future of the business as it approaches its 99th year.
Fox’s Marina, Boatyard and Chandlery have been acquired by Morgan Marine, forming the newly established Morgans Group. The decision represents a considered step by Fox’s to secure continued stability, investment and opportunity, while preserving the values, people and service that have defined the business for generations.
No change to a service customers know and trust:
Both businesses will continue to trade under their existing names, with the same familiar faces, locations and contact details. Prices, processes and day-to-day operations remain unchanged. Customers will continue to receive the same personal service and technical expertise they know and trust.
Strengthening the future:
The formation of Morgans Group brings together two respected, non-competing marine businesses, allowing for closer collaboration and shared expertise. Over time, this will support improved efficiency, broader capabilities and enhanced resilience, while allowing Fox’s to retain its independent character and customer-focused approach.
Fox’s will continue to operate as a full-service facility specialising in yacht refit and repair, alongside its well-established chandlery, maintaining its position as one of the UK’s leading yacht service yards. Morgan Marine, based in Brightlingsea, Essex, is an established marine leisure business providing boat sales, engineering, boatyard services and chandlery support, and is a partner to leading brands including Jeanneau, Nimbus, Highfield, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki and Mercury.
Leadership and management:
The management of Fox’s remains unchanged. Day-to-day operations will continue under the established leadership team, with Will Taylor-Jones as Managing Director and financial management overseen by Mark Underwood. Sir Richard Matthews will also remain involved with the business as Non-Executive Chairman as Fox’s moves towards its centenary year.
“As the owner Fox’s for over 40 years, I am delighted to pass the business to new, committed owners who have made such a such success of their Morgan Marine business. The acquisition secures Fox’s future as the premier yacht service yard on the East Coast and one of the finest facilities of its kind in the UK. Much of the Morgan business will be complementary to Fox’s activities allowing an even wider range of products and services. Fox’s Chandlery is already established as a leader on the East Coast and the joint ownership of Morgan and Fox’s outlets will offer even more choice, value and service to all customers. I am particularly pleased that the proven management team at Fox’s will continue, helping to take the business from strength to strength as it approaches its 100th anniversary.”
Sir Richard Matthews, Non-Executive Chairman, Fox’s Marina, Boatyard and Chandlery
“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Fox’s into the Morgan Marine group. With its outstanding reputation, first-class facilities, and a loyal, highly skilled team, Fox’s is a natural fit for us. Together, we’re stronger for the long term, with exciting opportunities for development and growth.”
Oli Miller, COO, Morgans Group
“Growing force joins established powerhouse! Throughout our ownership of Morgan Marine, we have recognised the importance of constant evolution. No company can afford to ignore it; you may be at the top of the pile today, but you'll be firmly at the bottom tomorrow if you do not move forward. In Fox's we have a tremendous group of people who have earned the finest reputation in their field".
Graham Miller, CEO, Morgans Group
Together, Fox’s and Morgan Marine represent more than 150 years of combined service to the marine industry. The formation of Morgans Group ensures that Fox’s heritage continues, strengthened, supported and well-positioned for the future.