REGION BRETAGNE

Brittany takes to the waves

Breton innovation at the heart of the Route du Rhum – la Banque Postale village

All of Brittany is delighted that Saint-Malo is once again hosting the start of the most emblematic ocean-going race, the Route du Rhum-La Banque Postale. For this latest edition, the Conseil régional, which has been a long-standing partner of the event, is providing competitors and organisers with all of its port infrastructure, as since 2007 it has been managing the Saint-Malo marina where the boats will tie up in October.

Through the development of marinas, support for innovative business projects and partnership for sports events all year round, from the Paris Salon Nautic to the start of major races, the Region helps to promote the nautical sector, which is a real centre for excellence.

Whether for high level competition or the construction of the latest generation of ships, the Region’s objective is now to help all actors highlight their skills and work together in an increasingly competitive economic climate.

Ocean-going racing: innovation working for a sector

The event and sporting dimensions seen in major ocean-going races are now complemented by the performances of an especially innovating Breton industrial sector. Co-operation between businesses and research laboratories is bearing fruit, from the design to launch of new “high-tech” boats.

Today, innovation is at the heart of this Breton sector which represents over 550 companies and 2,500 jobs in building and repair yards, equipment suppliers and ocean-going racing teams, to name just a few areas.

300m² to show off Breton innovation and creativity

The Region has taken the opportunity provided by the Route du Rhum – la Banque Postale, its reputation and the many visitors who come to see it to show the general public the Breton skills available for ocean-going racing. On a 300 m² stand at the heart of the exhibitors’ village, an educational exhibition with fun and informative events will present the skills and strong capacity for innovation that Brittany has for sailing.

The Region’s area will also be dedicated to professionals from the sailing world who may meet to talk and expand their network through relaxed public relations or networking operations.

Figures for sailing in Brittany:

1,300 companies,

610 ship building and repair yards,

€700 M direct turnover,

10,000 jobs.

Since 2007, 60 companies have benefited from consultancy assistance set up by the Brittany Region and over one million Euro has been dedicated to investment assistance

Press reception : 02 99 27 13 54  – Fax : 02 99 27 13 34 - presse@region-bretagne.fr

Contacts : Odile Bruley – 02 99 27 13 55 – 06 76 87 49 57 & Rose-Marie Louis – 02 99 27 97 76

www.bretagne.fr