A New Journey: Simpson Marine Celebrates 40th Anniversary at the Group Summit in Hong Kong

The Simpson Marine Group Summit brought together more than 90 Simpson team members from all offices across the Asia-Pacific region for its first gathering at its headquarters in Hong Kong from 5 to 7 March 2024. Three significant milestones were commemorated during the Summit: our 40 years of business, the retirement of our company’s founder, Mike Simpson, and the acquisition by Sanlorenzo.

5 March – The prelude – A day of strategy and anticipation

The three-day program commenced with a morning coffee meeting of Country Managers, who shared their locally adapted experiences for best practices and growth strategies. In the afternoon, the sales and support teams from all offices gathered for focused workshops on the brands represented by Simpson Marine, including Sanlorenzo, Bluegame and Fairline.

The teams enjoyed learning more about expanding product portfolios with many exciting models underway and technological advances that the shipyards implement, making boating simpler and more accessible to less experienced boaters.

6 March – The Summit Day

The emotional handover

The event commenced with great anticipation as we officially welcomed our new Chairman, Cav. Massimo Perotti, to the Simpson Marine family. After a welcoming opening speech and the signing ceremony, the company’s founder, Mike Simpson, handed over the helm to Massimo Perotti, marking a symbolic and emotional transition of the company into new hands.

Massimo’s inspiring speech touched on Sanlorenzo’s DNA and the strategic business pillars that have been a solid foundation of the company’s business model and success for the past 60+ years of operations.

Following his speech, Simpson Marine’s newly appointed Executive Chairman, Luca Cristino, shared insights into Sanlorenzo’s global and APAC strategy. His focus spanned Simpson Marine’s past, present, and future growth opportunities. To conclude the morning, Richard Allen, who became the Group’s Chief Operating Officer, addressed the Simpson Marine organisational changes and updates.

The day unfolded with immersive workshops, focusing on two critical areas:

Customer journey and clienteling: At the core of our success lies a deep understanding of our clients’ needs. These workshops explored strategies to enhance client relationships, elevate service standards, and consistently exceed expectations.

Team building, communication & culture workshop: Participants delved into effective team-building strategies, communication techniques, and the importance of fostering a positive organisational culture. The insights gained will undoubtedly contribute to Simpson Marine’s continued success and cohesive work environment.

An evening of prosperity and unity

As the sun dipped below the Hong Kong skyline, the atmosphere transformed. The outdoor patio, boasting an unbeatable sea view, came alive with vibrant colours, live music, and laughter. The cocktail party featured a mesmerising lion and dragon dance performance – an auspicious symbol of prosperity, success, and unity. It was a fitting celebration of our shared achievements.

The presentation of long service awards and the presentation of a series of retirement and symbolic thank-you gifts to Mike Simpson, including a photo book with wishes from the team, along with a trophy of 40 Years of Yachting Freedom, highlighted the evening’s festivities.

7 March – Convivial lunch at Lamma Island

All departments engaged in a series of workshops in the morning before boarding the boat to Lamma Island to enjoy a joyful Cantonese-style seafood luncheon. Introducing one of Mike’s favourites, quintessential Hong Kong local cuisine, to our international colleagues was a perfect ending to the memorable and eventful three-day program.

The Simpson Marine Group Summit was more than a mere gathering; it was a reaffirmation of our long-standing commitment to excellence. We extend our gratitude to everyone who has contributed to our success over the past four decades. Propelled by Massimo Perotti and our new Sanlorenzo family, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in our journey.

Here’s to 40 more years of Yachting Freedom!