Chris-Craft Leadership Team Breaks Ground on New State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facility on Existing Property in Sarasota, Florida

Chris-Craft Expands Production Capabilities Ahead of Anticipated Staff Growth 

Sarasota, FL - February 4^th, 2022 – Chris-Craft, America’s Boatbuilder Since 1874, broke ground on a new factory expansion project in Sarasota, FL. The expansion enables Chris-Craft to increase production capabilities to meet its growing market demands.  

To construct the 70,000 square-foot facility expansion, Chris-Craft has partnered with Ryan Companies US Inc., a national developer, builder, designer, and property manager offering full-service commercial real estate solutions based in Tampa, FL. 

The expansion project is set to transform a 6-acre brownfield lot into an additional manufacturing building adjacent to Chris-Craft's current factory. The existing state-of-the-art facility expands over 20 acres and employs over 300 engineers, craftsmen, and skilled workers. Each Chris-Craft is built to order, following a detailed, meticulous process to ensure the finest quality product. The expansion will allow the storied boatbuilder to expand their model offering and create additional jobs within the region. 

“Originally based in Michigan, Chris-Craft has been manufacturing boats in Sarasota, FL since 1988”. “We are excited for the opportunity to expand Chris-Craft right here at our home facility in Sarasota”, President Steve Heese said, “Through this expansion, we will be able to better serve our dealers and customers, as well as the Sarasota community.”  

The completion of the expansion is slated for September 2022. While the expansion will add 200 employees to the Chris-Craft Team, there are 20+ open positions to fill currently in various manufacturing roles.  

Follow along at www.chriscraft.com for more company updates.

ABOUT CHRIS-CRAFT 

Chris-Craft, America's Boat Builder Since 1874, leads the industry in craftsmanship and quality which represents the company's enduring devotion to its proud past. Chris-Craft is headquartered in Sarasota, Florida and builds the following models for the 2022 Collection: The Launch, Launch GT, Calypso and the Catalina; which range in length from 24 to 35 feet. For more information, visit: www.chriscraft.com. Chris-Craft is a wholly owned subsidiary of Winnebago Industries (NYSE: WGO) a 64-year old manufacturer of outdoor lifestyle products. 

For more information, contact: Allison Scharnow +1 (941) 358-3737 or [email protected]