Freedom Boat Club continues its European expansion; announces first UK franchise partners and two new locations
Sept 26, 2022
Freedom expands its European footprint adding locations in Torquay and Windermere
On September 16, 2022, Freedom Boat Club, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) and the world’s largest boat club operator, announced the opening of its first franchise locations in the United Kingdom. Consistent with Freedom’s growth strategy to scale its European footprint, the two new locations in Windermere and Torquay, provide its global membership base access to some of the top boating destinations in the UK.
Now with 33 locations across the UK, France and Spain, the opening of the new locations will be celebrated during the UK’s largest boat show, the Southampton International Boat Show, which Freedom exhibited at for the first time September 16 – 25, 2022.
“Opening our first franchise locations in the UK is a key part of our growth strategy. I’m confident our new partners share our values in making boating accessible for everyone and are committed to growing the Freedom brand throughout the region,” said Jason Worthy, Vice President, Boating Services, EMEA.
Newly opened on September 1, 2022, the Windermere location is owned and operated by Grahame Armer of Aquatic Quays Marina. The new location boasts district status as a World Heritage Site providing members access to the ultimate Lake District experience.
Remarking on the incorporation of Freedom Boat Club into the Windermere site, Development Manager Chris Brammer said, “The addition of Freedom Boat Club complements our existing long-established operations providing greater access to the best World Heritage Site in England. We look forward to supporting Freedom’s continued growth and welcoming members on the water.”
Opening Spring 2023, Freedom Boat Club Torquay is based on South Pier within Torquay Harbour. A well-protected boating haven, the harbour has access to some of the best facilities in the southwest and provides the ideal base from which to explore the beautiful English Riviera coastline. The location is owned and operated by Jason Bond and Antony Birchell of Birchell Marina.
Jason Bond, Club Manager at Torquay added, “We are looking forward to welcoming Freedom Boat Club members to enjoy the charms of Torquay for the 2023 boating season. The protected waters and stunning coastal views provide perfect cruising grounds for all types of leisure boaters, and we’re excited to introduce new and veteran boaters alike to everything Torquay has to offer through the ease and accessibility of Freedom.”
To learn more about Freedom Boat Club, visit the team at the Southampton International Boat Show at Stand E019 or connect with us at FreedomBoatClub.co.uk.