BMS expertise and a larger NEO program
The group unveiled the project on October 23, 2026, during Les Occasions du Multicoque et du Refit in Canet-en-Roussillon. BMS, which joined the group in October 2025, specializes in maintaining, customizing and refitting large catamarans. It employs 20 people and recorded €3.3 million in revenue in 2025, according to the group's press release.
"With BMS's expertise and the group's resources, we want to develop a Mediterranean hub for services to large vessels in Canet," said Clément Himily, managing director of the sailing business unit. "Convinced of the potential of reconditioning used boats, we see it as a new lever to deploy the Beneteau Group's NEO program on a larger scale, with the ambition of making this site a world reference in the 60-to-80-foot segment."
The NEO refit program now covers eight models from the LAGOON, BENETEAU and JEANNEAU brands, up from two. The group announced that expansion at the Cannes Yachting Festival.
Beneteau's groupwide target is to refit 130 boats annually by 2030. The Canet operation could account for approximately 10 large yachts a year by then, working with the group's other hubs.
Construction and possible expansion
Plans for the site include about 2,200 square meters of built space, contingent on the required studies and permits. A second phase could double that built area; an additional 10,000 square meters of land is also an option.
A possible second-phase addition would provide a dedicated space for owners and crews. Training could cover boat handling, safety and onboard systems, using participants' own boats or equivalent models. The space would also accommodate customer academies and events.
According to Beneteau Group, as reported by actu.fr, growth in activity at Canet could add around 60 jobs and bring the workforce to 80 if the project is fully realized.
Actu.fr also reported public funding for the expansion of Canet-en-Roussillon's nautical center that supports the project. Perpignan Méditerranée Métropole is committing €12 million, while the town is mobilizing a little over €3 million.
Part of a waterfront services network
The planned Canet hub follows Beneteau's strategy of placing service operations at locations with direct access to the water. Another planned hub, Port Olona 3 in Les Sables-d'Olonne, is expected to expand the group's capacity to prepare, customize and commission new boats.
The group reported €849 million in revenue for 2025. Its operations span 15 production sites, and it has more than 6,200 employees, primarily in France, Poland, Italy, Portugal and Tunisia.
