Lalizas acquires Brazilian lifejacket manufacturer Ativa Náutica
Safety equipment manufacturer Lalizas has acquired Ativa Náutica, a Brazilian manufacturer of lifejackets and buoyancy aids. The move follows the firm’s expansion across the Americas, including the acquisition of Lalizas/Alexander in 2018, Revere Survival in 2024 and the launch of Lalizas Canada last year.
Founded in 1998 in Campinas, São Paulo, by Marta Lara and Roberto Sampaio, Ativa began as a small-scale operation with three employees. Over time, the company has expanded to a 200-member workforce. Julia Ramalho, their niece and business partner, will remain with the organisation under Lalizas.
Lalizas also started as a small manufacturer in Piraeus, Greece, and has acquired several international firms, including Lofrans, Max Power, Nuova Rade, and Ocean Fenders in 2012, and Arimar in 2019.
Marta and Roberto chose to align Ativa with Lalizas, citing shared principles and an interest in maintaining the company’s identity under new ownership. “Ativa is like my third child,” says Marta Lara. “Seeing Ativa as part of a global group with such a prestigious history makes us very proud and honoured. Knowing that Lalizas will care for it, grow it, and respect its legacy gives me peace of mind.”
Stavros Lalizas, founder and CEO of Lalizas, says: “This acquisition is a testament to Lalizas’ global strength — not just as a manufacturer of safety equipment, but as a trusted industry leader known for empowering companies, transforming them into even more successful and profitable businesses, while always respecting their roots and people.
“This move strengthens our position in the Americas and unlocks new opportunities in a thriving market. Together, we are setting new standards in safety — across continents.”
Ativa Náutica produces equipment certified by the Brazilian Navy and claims to be the only company in Brazil that manufactures SOLAS-approved lifejackets. The company has held ISO 9001 certification since 2007.
Lalizas, founded in 1982, manufactures safety equipment such as lifejackets, life rafts, immersion suits, MOB devices and navigation lights, supplying maritime companies, marine stores, shipyards and boat builders internationally.
