Nova Rodman, one of Spain’s largest boat manufacturers, exports 80% of its output to 18 countries.

Founded in 1974 by its current owner Manuel Rodríguez, Rodman has grown from being a manufacturer of small fishing boats to becoming Spain’s largest manufacturer of glass reinforcing polyester (GRP) boats for the professional and leisure sectors.

From its headquarters in Vigo, northern Spain, the company operates three different business lines: the manufacture of leisure boats for fishing and cruising; professional boats for use by the navy, police and coast guard; and the maintenance of traditional metal ships.

Last year, Rodman also opened a new €10.5m automated factory in Portugal, enabling it to produce smaller boat ranges, freeing up capacity at the Vigo plant for the increased production of larger boats.

The company exports 80% of its boats to 18 countries, including Spain, France, Portugal, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. It operates four manufacturing plants employing more than 1,000 people.