Yanmar Marine International (YMI), based in Almere in the Netherlands, will take direct responsibility for distributing Yanmar Marine products in Italy from the end of the fourth quarter of 2026.

The move changes the role of Cartello, which has been the exclusive distributor of Yanmar marine engines in Italy since 1985. Once the transition is complete, Cartello will continue to work with Yanmar as an authorised dealer and service partner from its base in Carasco, near Genoa. Over more than forty years it has built a network of dealers and service centres across the country.

According to Yanmar, direct distribution brings the Italian market closer to the group's global organisation and allows closer cooperation in sales, service and product development. The company also aims to strengthen its relationship with Italian boatbuilders and owners and to expand its service capabilities and dealer network.

"With a direct presence in Italy, we will be able to respond more quickly to market needs, strengthen technical support and service, and invest further in the growth of the Italian marine industry," said Floris Lettinga, Sales and Marketing Director at Yanmar Marine International.

Yanmar says it is working closely with Cartello on a gradual handover. Product availability, technical support, spare parts supply and after-sales service will continue without interruption throughout the transition.

"As an authorised Yanmar dealer and service centre, we will continue to stand by boaters and look after Yanmar engines with the same passion and care as always. We will be pleased to contribute to Yanmar's continued success in Italy," said Corrado Gaia, President of Cartello.

YMI is part of Yanmar's Marine Recreational Business Unit, which includes the Yanmar, Vetus, Maxwell, Flexofold and Smartgyro brands. The company states that its service network covers more than 130 countries. Yanmar was founded in Osaka, Japan, in 1912.