As a keen yachtsman, whose activities in 2019 included winning the East Coast Offshore Championship and participating in his 23rd Fastnet Race, Matthews is a highly respected figure in the sailing community. His wealth of experience and in-depth knowledge of the marine industry make him the perfect addition to our board, which, led by Richard Hadida and Becky Bridgen, comprises non-executive directors Eddie Jordan, Ivan Ritossa, Ashley Highfield (Chairman) and special adviser Rob Humphreys.
Richard Matthews commented on his delight at being part of the Oyster Family once more, saying: “One of the most amazing things about Oyster is the extended “family” of Oyster owners who share my passion for these beautiful yachts. Rejoining Oyster is like coming home. In Richard Hadida, Oyster now has an owner with the resources to take the business forward. Above all his infectious enthusiasm for the brand convinced me that Oyster has a truly exciting future and I look forward to once again being part of it.”
Since Hadida acquired Oyster Yachts in 2018, the board has made strong progress in turning the business around, successfully investing in up-to-date production systems and facilities, scaling up the workforce to meet demand and launching two new models – the award-winning Oyster 565 and our Oyster 1225 sailing superyacht. Now, a brand new decade in the Oyster story sees us with a healthy order book and growing global demand for our bluewater sailing yachts. We are excited to welcome Matthews aboard, knowing that he shares our determination for the future success of Oyster.
Speaking about Matthews joining the Board of Directors, Oyster owner Richard Hadida said: “It is hugely important to me personally that the founder of the brand I hold so close to my heart has given it his seal of approval by joining our board. Having restored the company to its former glory with the support of a fantastic team – from talented craftsmen to dedicated management – this feels like confirmation that Oyster is once again synonymous with quality and excellence, just as it was when Richard founded it back in 1973.”
Listen to Matthews recount the Oyster Story at the 2019 Oyster Antigua Regatta to learn how Oyster came to be.