French boating industry legend dies in accident

Merry De La Poeze, a respected and prominent figure in the boating industry, passed away on 17 November 2024 following a car accident.

Groupe Beneteau, which confirmed the news in a statement, has paid tribute to De La Poeze. The wider boating community has expressed condolences as it reflects on his influential career, which spanned over four decades.

De La Poeze made significant contributions to yachting, both in France and internationally. He played a key role in the development of Jeanneau boats and was particularly influential in shaping the engine ranges for Groupe Beneteau brands. His ability to merge practical design with an eye for aesthetics became a hallmark of his work.

Jean-Paul Chapeleau, a former member of the Groupe Beneteau management committee and president of the French Nautical Industries Federation, remembers him: “Merry was a human being, honest and respectful, always kind and smiling,” he says. “A passionate man. He worked hard for the yachting industry in his various capacities and was recognised by the entire profession.

“Merry was driven by the quest for perfection in the boats he developed, with an eye for practical, useful and attentive detail. He could put a lot of energy into imposing his convictions, but he was also good at giving advice and willing to pass on his knowledge. A complete and all-round person. Feet on the ground, head in the stars, always with enthusiasm, desire, creativity and ingenuity.”

Born in 1956, De La Poeze joined Jeanneau on 2 May 1980 at the age of 24. His early work focused on marketing Jeanneau sailboards and managing the Eau Vive and Eau Claire river barge business units. His efforts contributed to creating the Merry Fisher range, which was named after him and remains one of the brand’s most successful models.

Between 1993 and 1995, he became general manager of OMC France, where he helped to promote Evinrude and Johnson engines, fostering a strong partnership with Jeanneau. He rejoined Groupe Beneteau in 2004 as product marketing director for Jeanneau and Prestige engine ranges, later helping to establish Prestige as an independent brand. Aside from Merry Fisher, his leadership and vision were instrumental in developing several key product lines, including Cap Camarat, Leader, NC, and DB.

Before retiring in 2023, De La Poeze took on new responsibilities in supporting the motor product marketing teams across Groupe Beneteau’s dayboating brands, passing on his knowledge to the next generation.

Samuel Dubois, chief sales officer of Groupe Beneteau’s dayboating business unit, says: “We have lost a dear friend and a wonderful colleague. We are deeply grateful for his generous and strong commitment. He’ll be in our thoughts every time we come across on the water one of the many models he has developed.”

De La Poeze’s retirement in 2023 was celebrated by Jeanneau’s dealer network, where he left a final message: “Thank you, it’s been fun!”

Gianguido Girotti, CEO of Groupe Beneteau’s boat division, says: “All of our teams and I had a deep admiration for Merry. Above all, Merry was a man of profound intellectual integrity, driven by an incredible passion and dedication to his work. A creative leader who, through his pursuit of perfection, was able to identify and shape exceptional products for thousands of happy customers.

“We will miss Merry greatly. We will miss the man, his ability to listen, understand, adapt and always support the truth and respect for the collective interest. Thanks again for everything you gave us Merry.”

Marine Industry News extends its condolences to De La Poeze’s family, friends and colleagues.