Florida Manufacturing Plant For Luxury Boating Company Aviara Is Shutting Down, Laying Off Over 180

Photo byFacebook Screenshot, Aviara Boats

Companies in Florida have either laid off, closed, or filed for bankruptcy in August. I've written about a Winn Dixie layoff, Buca di Beppo and World of Beer's bankruptcies, and Big Lots closures. And now a Florida plant in Merrit Island that built Aviara boats is laying off over 180 Florida employees.

About Aviara Boats: According to its website, the company strives to craft forward-thinking, luxury boats using the design principles of progressive style, elevated control, modern comfort, and quality details. The boats are manufactured in Merrit Island, Florida.

Employees who work for the company give it 2.5 out of 5 stars on Indeed. While some said the company offered room for growth, others said there is a cap on pay and management has "unrealistic expectations."

The Upcoming Florida Layoffs: According to a warn letter dated August 8, 2024, the Aviara facility located at 1210 Nautical Way will permanently close. Therefore, 181 employees will be laid off beginning August 8, 2024. The facility is expected to close by October 5, 2024.

Examples are some of the jobs being terminated at laminators, riggers, engine setters, and patchers, to name a few examples.

The Mastercraft Deal: According to the Orlando Business Journal, it is possible that the layoffs are tied to an asset exchange agreement between Mastercraft (which is tied to Aviara) and Cruisers Yachts (which is tied to Florida-based MarineMax.)

The agreement reportedly included MasterCraft closing the Merrit Island production facility and offering it for open market sale.

The author is not affiliated with Aviara, Mastercraft or any other boating companies.