on 27 May 2022
The Dutch shipyard's owner has been sanctioned by the UK and USA
Heesen Yachts has announced a new financial structure, which means the company is now 100 per cent Dutch.
The news comes after the Dutch shipyard’s UBO (ultimate beneficiary owner) Vagit Alekperov, a Russian multibillionaire and former CEO of Lukoil, was sanctioned by the UK and US in mid-April for ‘benefiting from or continuing to support’ the Russian government.
An attempt to transfer Valekperov’s Heesen shares into a foundation in late April failed when the notary refused to cooperate.
In a short statement, Heesen clarifies that shares have now been transferred from the group’s top Dutch holding company to an independent Dutch foundation. The firm says this is to “guarantee the successful future of the shipyard and the continuity of employment for the highly qualified employees of Heesen Yachts.”
The board of the foundation consists of Heesen CEO Arthur Brouwer and Anjo Joldersma, chairman of the supervisory board.
The shipyard adds that it remains profitable, with a full order book. “[Heesen] employees can continue to work with their usual dedication and commitment to finishing the 13 yachts currently under construction,” the statement says.
It has not been confirmed how Alekperov will be compensated for his shares, or what will happen to his superyacht, which the Dutch government has impounded in the Netherlands.