When it comes to luxury pontoons, Avalon Pontoons is one of the brands that are always on the top of the list. They offer some of the most luxurious and high-end pontoons in the market, but who actually owns them? It’s a question that many potential buyers and boating enthusiasts have been asking, and one that we’ll be diving into in this article.
Avalon Pontoons was founded back in 1972 by Carl Volz. Initially, the company started out as a small business that made recreational and fishing boats, but it’s now grown into a global brand with a reputation for making some of the best luxury pontoons in the market. However, in recent years, there have been changes to who owns the company, and that’s what we’ll be exploring.
At one point, Avalon Pontoons was a family-owned business, but it was eventually sold to the Polaris Industries in 2018. The Minnesota-based giant is known for making snowmobiles, ATVs, and motorcycles, and the acquisition of Avalon Pontoons allowed them to enter the boating industry. Since then, the ownership of Polaris Industries has shifted, with Avalon Pontoons being part of the Boat Holdings group, which is now owned by Brunswick Corporation. It’s an interesting evolution of ownership, and one that we’ll be looking at more closely in the coming paragraphs.
History of Avalon Pontoons
Avalon Pontoons has been a pioneer in the pontoon industry for over 40 years. The company was founded in 1972 in Alma, Michigan by the Menne family. Since then, Avalon has become one of the leading manufacturers of high-quality pontoons in the United States.
What started as a small operation with just a handful of employees has since grown into a large-scale production facility that employs over 500 skilled workers. Avalon Pontoons has consistently remained at the forefront of the industry by continually innovating and improving their manufacturing processes.
- In 1996, Avalon introduced the first aluminum pontoon with integrated lighting and sound systems.
- In 2003, they introduced a patented V-shaped hull, which improved performance and fuel efficiency.
- In 2011, Avalon created the first Deco-style pontoon, which featured sleek, modern lines and elegant design.
Today, Avalon Pontoons is headquartered in Alma, Michigan, and has a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility that spans over 290,000 square feet. Their pontoons are sold throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe, and they continue to be a driving force in the pontoon industry.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1972 | Avalon Pontoons is founded in Alma, Michigan by the Menne family. |
| 1996 | Avalon introduces the first aluminum pontoon with integrated lighting and sound systems. |
| 2003 | Avalon introduces a patented V-shaped hull, which improved performance and fuel efficiency. |
| 2011 | Avalon creates the first Deco-style pontoon, which featured sleek, modern lines and elegant design. |
Avalon Pontoons has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1972. With a commitment to innovation and quality, the company has cemented its place as a leader in the pontoon industry.
Founders of Avalon Pontoons
Avalon Pontoons has become a well-known name in the boating industry, particularly in pontoon boats. The company has been in operation since 1972, and it all started with two innovative individuals who decided to take their passion for boating and use it to create the best pontoon boats out there.
- Jim Wolf and Bob Engel founded Avalon Pontoons in Alma, Michigan.
- Jim Wolf has a background in engineering, which he utilized to develop the construction methods used by Avalon Pontoons.
- Bob Engel has a history in sales and marketing, which he used to launch and grow the company.
Together, Wolf and Engel were an unbeatable team. They had the knowledge and passion for boats, as well as complementary skill sets that allowed them to build and market high-quality pontoons like no one else could.
Over the years, the company has grown and expanded while still remaining true to its roots. Avalon Pontoons is now a leading manufacturer of pontoon boats, and they continue to innovate and push the limits of what is possible in boating.
What Sets Avalon Pontoons Apart?
There are many reasons why Avalon Pontoons has become such a popular brand in the boating industry. One of the biggest reasons is the quality of their boats. Avalon Pontoons uses the latest materials and technology to ensure that their boats are strong, durable, and long-lasting.
In addition to their commitment to quality, Avalon Pontoons is known for their innovative designs. They are constantly coming up with new, creative ways to make their boats more comfortable, more functional, and more stylish. Whether you are looking for a pontoon boat for fishing, cruising, or entertaining, Avalon Pontoons has a boat that will meet your needs.
A Look at Avalon Pontoons Models
One of the great things about Avalon Pontoons is that they offer a wide variety of models to choose from. Here is a brief look at some of their most popular models:
| Model Name | Length | Width | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catalina Quad Lounger | 25 feet | 8.5 feet | 16 people |
| Vista Funship | 22 feet | 8.5 feet | 12 people |
| Tahoe Elite Windshield | 27 feet | 8.5 feet | 14 people |
These models are just a few examples of the many options available from Avalon Pontoons. Whether you are looking for a compact boat for weekend fishing trips or a large boat for entertaining friends and family, there is sure to be an Avalon Pontoon that fits your needs.
Overall, the founders of Avalon Pontoons set out to create a brand that would stand the test of time, and they have undoubtedly achieved that goal. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Avalon Pontoons will likely remain a top choice for boating enthusiasts for many years to come.
Avalon Pontoons’ Journey to Success
Avalon Pontoons started in 1972 as a small family-owned business in Alma, Michigan. From the beginning, their focus was on creating high-quality luxury pontoons, and their commitment to excellence quickly earned them a loyal customer base.
Over the years, Avalon has continued to innovate and improve their products, and they now offer an impressive range of options to suit every boater’s needs. From basic models to high-end luxury pontoons with all the bells and whistles, Avalon has something for everyone.
- Their boats are manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility that utilizes the latest technology and equipment.
- Avalon’s dedication to quality is evident in every aspect of their business, from the materials they use to their rigorous testing process.
- Their commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and they offer exceptional after-sale support to ensure that every customer is happy with their purchase.
As Avalon continued to grow, they expanded their operations outside of Michigan and now have dealerships across the country. Their success can be attributed to their unwavering commitment to creating the best luxury pontoons on the market.
Below is a table that highlights some of Avalon’s notable achievements throughout their journey to success:
| Year | Accomplishment |
|---|---|
| 1972 | Avalon Pontoons is founded in Alma, Michigan |
| 1995 | Avalon expands their operations and starts selling boats outside of Michigan |
| 2000 | Avalon introduces their first luxury pontoon, the Ambassador |
| 2005 | Avalon builds a new facility in Alma, Michigan to increase production capacity and improve quality |
| 2010 | Avalon introduces the first full-line of luxury pontoon boats with its Excalibur series |
| 2015 | Avalon celebrates 40 years in business and introduces new models with cutting-edge features |
Today, Avalon remains a leader in the pontoon industry, and their journey to success is a testament to their dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Avalon Pontoons’ Impact on the Boating Industry
Avalon Pontoons is a leading company in the boating industry. With its innovative designing and quality crafted products, Avalon Pontoons has had a major impact on the boating industry in various different ways. Let’s take a closer look at how Avalon Pontoons has made a significant impact in the boating industry.
Revolutionized Pontoons Design
- Avalon Pontoons has set new standards by designing boats that are not only functional but also aesthetically appealing.
- Their designs have been a game-changer in the industry, making pontoon boats more versatile, spacious, and comfortable to use.
- They have created a new segment of luxury pontoons in the market, offering customers a premium boating experience.
Increased Popularity of Pontoons
Avalon Pontoons’ focus on designing high-quality boats has played a critical role in helping the boating industry thrive. They have helped to increase the popularity of pontoons amongst boaters of all ages and experience levels.
Thanks to the comfort, space, and versatility that Avalon Pontoons provides, customers–who previously only considered traditional cabins cruisers–are now opting for luxury pontoons instead.
Pioneering Sustainability in the Boating Industry
Avalon Pontoons is committed to revolutionizing the industry with a focus on sustainability. Their Go Green initiative is dedicated to reducing emissions and energy consumption.
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Solar-Powered Charging Stations | Installed free solar-powered stations in select dealerships across the country to charge electric boats. |
| Plastic Recycling Program | Offers plastic drop-off on all facilities to minimize the waste in landfills, thus conserving the environment. |
| Green Materials | Avalon Pontoons’ components are made out of fewer chemicals and more natural materials, which reduces pollution. |
All of these initiatives demonstrate their commitment to preserving the environment and innovating the boating industry.
Current Ownership of Avalon Pontoons
Avalon Pontoons is a renowned pontoon manufacturer in the marine industry that has been producing luxury and high-quality boats for over five decades. Over the years, the ownership of Avalon Pontoons has changed hands, and the current ownership is shared among different companies.
- Correct Craft: In 2018, Correct Craft acquired Avalon & Tahoe Manufacturing Inc., which owns Avalon Pontoons. Correct Craft is a family-owned company that specializes in manufacturing various boats, including wakeboarding, fishing, and ski boats. The acquisition has enabled Correct Craft to diversify their product portfolio and position themselves as leaders in the pontoon market.
- SBI (State Bank of India) Ven Capital: In 2015, SBI Ven Capital invested $50 million in Avalon & Tahoe Manufacturing Inc. The investment allowed Avalon Pontoons to expand its factory in Alma, Michigan, and increase its production capacity significantly. SBI Ven Capital is a subsidiary of the State Bank of India, and they invest in various companies worldwide.
- Bain Capital Private Equity: In 2014, Bain Capital Private Equity acquired Avalon & Tahoe Manufacturing Inc., the parent company of Avalon Pontoons. Bain Capital is one of the world’s leading private equity firms with over $130 billion in assets under management. The acquisition allowed Avalon Pontoons to expand its product line and improve the quality of its boats.
Despite the change in ownership, Avalon Pontoons has maintained its reputation as a leading pontoon manufacturer by producing innovative, luxurious, and reliable boats.
Here is a list summarizing the current ownership of Avalon Pontoons:
| Company | Year |
|---|---|
| Correct Craft | 2018 |
| SBI Ven Capital | 2015 |
| Bain Capital Private Equity | 2014 |
Overall, the current ownership of Avalon Pontoons reflects the company’s strong reputation and success in the marine industry.
Future of Avalon Pontoons
With the recent acquisition of Avalon Pontoons by Polaris Industries, the future looks bright for the luxury pontoon boat brand. Polaris, known for its innovative and high-quality recreational vehicles, has the resources and expertise to take Avalon to the next level.
Avalon has already made significant strides in the pontoon industry with its cutting-edge technology and luxurious amenities. With Polaris’ backing, Avalon is poised to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible with pontoon boats.
- Expansion of the product line – With the additional resources and capabilities from Polaris, Avalon can explore new designs and features for their pontoons. This could include new types of seating, entertainment systems, and more.
- Increased distribution – Polaris has an extensive distribution network, including over 1,500 dealers in North America alone. This can help Avalon expand its reach and increase sales.
- Continued emphasis on innovation – Both Polaris and Avalon are known for their dedication to innovation and quality. Together, they can take pontoon boats to new heights with the latest technology and design.
In addition to these exciting developments, Avalon has also launched a new line of electric-powered pontoons. These eco-friendly vessels offer all the luxury and performance of traditional pontoon boats while significantly reducing their carbon footprint.
Overall, the future of Avalon Pontoons looks bright under the ownership of Polaris Industries. As the brand continues to innovate and expand, consumers can expect more luxurious and high-tech pontoon boats from this industry leader.
In conclusion
Avalon Pontoons has a bright future under the ownership of Polaris Industries. With the support of Polaris’ resources and expertise, Avalon can continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible with pontoon boats. Consumers can expect to see more high-tech and eco-friendly offerings from this industry leader in the coming years.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Increased distribution | Potential for increased prices |
| Access to Polaris’ resources | Change in company structure and culture |
| Opportunity for new designs and features | Potential for product line shift |
The acquisition of Avalon Pontoons by Polaris Industries has many pros and cons. While the increased distribution and access to Polaris’ resources are significant benefits, there is also the potential for increased prices and a shift in the product line. Overall, however, the future looks bright for this luxury pontoon boat brand.
Avalon Pontoons’ Sustainability Efforts
Avalon Pontoons is proud to prioritize sustainability efforts in the manufacturing of their luxury pontoon boats. The company understands that protecting the environment is vital for the well-being of future generations.
As part of their sustainability efforts, Avalon Pontoons has taken various measures to reduce their carbon footprint and promote eco-friendliness in their operations.
- Avalon Pontoons has implemented a Zero-Waste policy to minimize their environmental impact. The company recycles and reuses waste products wherever feasible.
- They have also taken steps to reduce energy consumption in their manufacturing process. Avalon Pontoons has switched to energy-efficient lighting and installed state-of-the-art equipment to conserve power.
- Avalon Pontoons’ boats are built with eco-friendly materials that are free of toxic chemicals and pollutants.
In addition to these measures, Avalon Pontoons is committed to giving back to the community and protecting local wildlife. The company supports various environmental nonprofits, and their boats have been used for research and conservation efforts.
By prioritizing sustainability, Avalon Pontoons is leading the way in responsible manufacturing and setting an example for others in the industry to follow.
Sustainability Features of Avalon Pontoons
Avalon Pontoons’ sustainability efforts are reflected in the features of their luxury boats. These features include:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Eco-Friendly Materials | Avalon Pontoons uses recycled and sustainable materials in the manufacturing of their boats. The furniture is made from recycled plastic, and the carpet is free of harmful chemicals. |
| Energy-Efficient Lighting | Avalon Pontoons has switched to LED lighting, which consumes less energy than traditional bulbs. |
| Tri-Toon Hulls | The tri-toon design of Avalon Pontoons boats increases stability and reduces drag, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. |
These sustainability features not only make Avalon Pontoons’ boats eco-friendly but also improve their performance and longevity.
Who Owns Avalon Pontoons: FAQs
1. Who founded Avalon Pontoons?
Avalon Pontoons was founded by Jim Wolf in 1972.
2. Is Avalon Pontoons a publicly-traded company?
No, Avalon Pontoons is a privately-owned company.
3. Who currently owns Avalon Pontoons?
In 2018, Polaris Industries acquired Avalon Pontoons and it became a subsidiary of Polaris.
4. Does Polaris Industries make any other recreational products?
Yes, Polaris Industries is known for manufacturing off-road vehicles, snowmobiles, and motorcycles.
5. Where are Avalon Pontoons manufactured?
All Avalon Pontoons are manufactured in Alma, Michigan.
6. How can I contact Avalon Pontoons regarding a question or concern?
You can visit their official website or call their customer service hotline at 1-877-367-6144.
7. Does Avalon Pontoons offer any warranties on their products?
Yes, Avalon Pontoons offers a 10-year warranty on their structures and limited lifetime warranties on their seat frames, Bimini tops, and flooring.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about who owns Avalon Pontoons. The company has a rich history and is now a part of the Polaris Industries family. If you have any further questions or are interested in purchasing a pontoon from Avalon, be sure to visit their website or contact their customer service team for assistance. Don’t forget to come back and visit for more informative articles in the future!