Riviera earns 2021 Australian Export Awards gong

While Riviera didn’t win the overall title – that accolade went to Northern Territory-based coral exporter Monsoon Aquatics – it did take out the manufacturing and advanced materials title alongside Victorian casting and precision machining group AW Bell.

The award, announced today via Trade, Tourism and Investment Minister Dan Tehan, recognised Riviera for “outstanding international success in manufacturing, engineering and/or advanced materials development” including consumer products.

“Riviera is Australia’s world-class luxury motor yacht builder. Founded in 1980, the company has launched more than 5750 motor yachts over the past 41 years,” Austrade said in its statement announcing the winners.

“The yachts built by Riviera today are internationally acclaimed for their innovative design, superior engineering and performance, and ultra-luxurious interiors,” it said.

“From Riviera’s state-of-the-art facility on the Gold Coast, a team of more than 850 create more than 120 motor yachts every year. The Riviera range spans 39 to 78 feet, with 24 models from six distinct Riviera collections.

“The long-term, international popularity of Riviera motor yachts is evidenced by more than half of annual production heading to overseas markets each year. 

“This global reach sees Riviera motor yachts cruising the Mediterranean, Pacific and Caribbean, as well as the Great Lakes and coastal waters of North and South America.”

Riviera owner Rodney Longhurst said more than three of every five motor yachts the company built were destined for overseas buyers.

“It’s a big world, and it is a challenge, but we’re a tough Aussie battler having a go," Longhurst said.

"Our luxury boats are amongst the best in the world, standing proudly next to European and American models.”

Businesses entering the awards are judged on the?degree of innovation?in the marketing strategy, the export growth?achieved and the ability to sustain that growth, evidence of?sustainable?competitive advantage, value?and contribution of exporting to business expansion, and the overall company?commitment?to international business.

Riviera earlier this month announced it had appointed a Central American representative for the brand in Panama, as part of a market expansion in the region.