Westport Shipyard has new owners

Westport, LLC will be taking over production of the Westport Shipyard facilities locally as the majority stakeholder, without changing the employees or closing any facilities. The only adjustment, according to General Manager Dave Hagiwara, is a change to the name on the sign out front.

Commission President Stan Pinnick applauded Westport Shipyard for their commitment to a quality product and the people that make it all possible. “We are pleased to hear the hundreds of jobs tied to our local economy will be retained and we look forward to establishing a prosperous business relationship with the new ownership.”

Employing over 400 employees, Westport has completed more than 140 yachts since 2000. And one of those customers was Gary Chouest.

“Gary has always been passionate about our industry, and we are honored to count him as a customer, and now our majority owner, as well,” said Daryl Wakefield, Westport’s president, who will remain in that position, along with General Manager Dave Hagiwara, and the rest of Westport’s management team and employees.

Hagiwara added that at this time, no layoffs are planned following the change.

The new owners involve the Chouest family of companies include substantial holdings in the oil and gas marine transportation industry, but also American Custom Yachts.

“Similar to the history of the Chouest family business, Westport began five decades ago focused on a commercial fishing fleet and has diversified into other core businesses, but maintains an emphasis on customer satisfaction and the pursuit of excellence,” said Gary Chouest.

“We are pleased to join the Westport family, and look forward to pursuing the synergies that exist between the Chouest companies, ACY, and Westport. We will continue to pursue the employment of skilled local workers, and will remain an active participant in the communities Westport serves,” Chouest added.

Celebrating 50 years of business in 2014, Westport maintains three locations in Washington, as well as a marina and sales office in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.