Leading Yachts of the World (LYW), the ground-breaking travel technology brand, has accelerated its global expansion strategy with the opening of a new office in Monaco.
The Mediterranean principality, which is famed for its glittering harbor and high-end clientele, becomes the company’s sixth global location, along with Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket, Hong Kong, and Palma de Mallorca. The new office will enable LYW to disrupt the yachting, travel and hospitality industries in Europe. With its fully automated digital ecosystem, supported by proprietary technology from AVA Software, LYW will connect yacht charter companies with premium travel suppliers, luxury hospitality players and high net worth individuals across the region.
The launch of the Monaco office coincides with the appointment of senior executives to oversee the European market. Roberto Bottini has become Director of European Sales, while Marco Meneghini, LYW’s co-founding partner and Group Financial Director, will drive the company’s growth in this important market.
A luxury travel expert with more than 30 years of experience, Roberto Bottini spent several years with Hilton before working for five-star hotels in Cannes and Paris. He intuitively understands the Monaco market, having spent more than a decade in senior managerial roles at some of the country’s most prestigious properties, including Hotel Metropole, Monegasque Palace, and Fairmont Hotel. He also spent a decade managing an exclusive boutique hotel on the Côte d’Azur, where he honed his ability to meet and exceed the expectations of premium guests.
Marco Meneghini has spent a lifetime immersed in Monaco’s yachting culture. He oversaw the restructuring of Nautor’s Swan global subsidiaries during its acquisition by Leonardo Ferragamo and helped to create the first app for its charter business. Marco has developed successful sales and marketing strategies for several stakeholders and used his financial acumen to set up investment platforms and consultancy projects for individuals, companies, and start-ups. Living and working in Monaco, Marco has an extensive personal and professional network in the yachting and real estate sectors.
“Monaco is the yachting industry’s most high-profile market. Its iconic attractions and well-heeled clientele create outstanding opportunities for the travel and hospitality industries. We are delighted to welcome Roberto to LYW; his proven ability to generate new business and drive results will play a vital role in the growth of our operations. Combined with Marco’s extensive network and knowhow, we expect to achieve a rapid ramp-up in Europe,” said Anthony Brisacq, CEO, Leading Yachts of the World and AVA Software.
Following the company’s debut in the Asia Pacific, the LYW platform is now being rolled out in multiple European destinations including Monaco, the French Riviera, Corsica and Sardinia, the Balearic Islands, Greece, and Croatia, with more international destinations set to follow.
