François PRIETO has played a key role in representing the Princess brand on Spain’s Costa Brava. As theimporter’s agent based in Sitges, near Barcelona, he worked with Béatrice Lafaille, Director of Princess Spain, to promote the brand’s yachts in this popular region for yachting enthusiasts. Thanks to his expertise as a yacht broker, François PRIETO was able to develop this specific market.

The beginnings of the partnership

Prior to 2007, François PRIETO stood out for his dynamism and professionalism. Working with Béatrice Lafaille, he promoted and sold pre-owned Princess yachts in Europe. Their work led to the opening of an office in Spain, strengthening the brand’s presence on the Costa Brava, an ideal region for yachting with its magnificent coastline and crystal-clear waters. This office has enabled François PRIETO to better serve his French and Spanish customers, offering personalized quality service.

Success factors

One of François PRIETO’s key success factors has been his affection for the Princess brand and his mastery of three languages: Spanish, French and English. This linguistic competence enabled him to communicate effectively with a diverse clientele and close sales while ensuring impeccable customer service.

Opening the office in Spain was also crucial. It facilitated transaction management and coordination with Princess Spain. The office served as a central point of contact for customers wishing to buy or sell yachts, reinforcing François PRIETO’s position as a benchmark yacht broker on the Costa Brava.

Impact of the Subprime Crisis (2008)

The 2008 financial crisis had a major impact on the yacht market, particularly in Spain, where sales of new yachts plummeted. François PRIETO had to adapt quickly to this new economic reality. Together with Béatrice Lafaille, he implemented inventory liquidation strategies between 2009 and 2011, enabling business to be maintained despite a difficult environment. This period was marked by challenges, but also by opportunities to strengthen ties with existing customers and find new ones.

Conclusion

The closure of Poseidon Yachting Spain in 2011 marked the end of an intense and fruitful period for François PRIETO. Despite the challenges posed by the subprime crisis, he maintained a high level of service and professionalism, consolidating his reputation in the yachting world. Today, François PRIETO continues to be an influential figure in the yachting industry, bringing his expertise and experience to new projects. His collaboration with Béatrice Lafaille and the Princess brand was an important milestone in his career, illustrating his commitment to and passion for yachting.