Navman is distributed in Europe and the UK by Plastimo. In a press statement announcing the deal, both sides said they view this transaction as an entirely positive outcome with regards to Navman's marine electronic business in Europe.

Paul Callus, managing director of Plastimo UK, welcomed the move. "Navman has become increasingly important to us in the UK and Europe, " he told BB. "We'll be investing more into Navman sales activity in terms of staff and showroom facilities."

We took a separate stand at London last year to demonstrate our commitment to Navman and we'll increase the profile of Navman at ExCeL, he added.

Navman says it will be able to provide Plastimo with a much greater level of direct market support, which will result in a more prominent and aggressive profile in the marine market.

"This new chapter in the history of the Navman brand will allow us to provide an increased focus and increased commitment to growing Navman's market share in all European marine markets, " said Navman vice president, Marc Michel.