Exit ramp: Company wins by taking the scenic route to a sale

For a private equity firm that bought, rebuilt and sold an iconic brand, the perfect deal materialized when it wasn’t even looking — proving the importance of patience and readiness.

Mark Wemple. Chris-Craft President and CEO Steve Heese will remain with the company in the aftermath of its sale to Winnebago, which plans to operate the Sarasota-based boat maker as a separate business entity.
Mark Wemple. Chris-Craft President and CEO Steve Heese will remain with the company in the aftermath of its sale to Winnebago, which plans to operate the Sarasota-based boat maker as a separate business entity.
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When Stellican Ltd., a group of investors led by Steve Heese, bought the tangible assets of Chris-Craft, the iconic Sarasota-based boat manufacturer, the game plan was to make a quick buck by liquidating what was left of the company.

 

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