For the right buyer, opportunities in the marine industry do not always come with history, location, reputation and growth potential all in one package. Peter Johnston Ship Chandlers in Hobart is one of those rare businesses that does.
Established in 1964 and located on Hobart’s iconic waterfront, Peter Johnston Ship Chandlers, or PJ’s as it is widely known, has built a long-standing reputation as one of Tasmania’s best-known marine retail businesses. Servicing both the recreational and commercial boating sectors, the business has become a trusted destination for generations of boat owners, skippers and marine operators, while also steadily expanding its reach through online sales to customers across Australia.
At its core, PJ’s is a marine retail business with a difference. In an era where many stores operate with a supermarket-style approach, Peter Johnston Ship Chandlers has retained the character and service standards of a true traditional chandlery. Its strength lies not only in the products it sells, but in the knowledge behind the counter.
Owner Will Allison says that point of difference remains central to the business’s success.
“In some ways, we are an old-school chandlery,” he said. “Unlike the supermarket-style stores, we specialise in being able to source equipment from hundreds of different suppliers. Our staff are all knowledgeable boaters who have an understanding that you don’t get good service from a catalogue.”
That service-first approach has helped create a loyal and diverse customer base. PJ’s caters to recreational and commercial boaters alike, across power and sail, large and small vessels. Many customers have been shopping with the business for decades, a reflection of both its longevity and consistent performance.
“Many have been shopping here since the business opened in 1964,” Allison said. “The reason is simple, we provide good service at a reasonable price.”
The business’s strengths are significant. Alongside its knowledgeable staff and loyal customer following, PJ’s holds a prime waterfront position in Hobart, placing it at the heart of one of Australia’s most picturesque and boating-focused regions. Its trusted brand presence, strong social media following, extensive customer database and access to high-quality brands all add to the appeal.
For a new owner, the growth potential is equally compelling. Allison sees considerable opportunity in expanding the online side of the business, particularly as more customers look for reputable and dependable marine suppliers. He also points to future upside in the commercial marine market and in corporate clothing, both of which offer room for further development.
The business could suit a range of buyers. For an established mainland operator, it presents an opportunity to expand into Tasmania with an already respected name and proven local footprint. For an individual buyer, it offers the chance for a true sea change: a lifestyle business in one of Australia’s most attractive harbour cities, backed by a long trading history and established demand.
Allison believes the ideal buyer is someone prepared to continue building the PJ brand.
“Someone who is enthusiastic about building the PJ brand… the rest will come almost by itself,” he said. “I have a strong boating background, which has definitely helped. But I had no experience in sales. I think anyone with reasonably good business sense would go well.”
Having owned the business since 2014, Allison says the decision to sell comes down to focus.
“We own three marine businesses, PJ’s, a YachtCare business and a yacht brokerage. I’m simply spread too thin,” he said. “This will give me the opportunity to step back a little and spend a bit more time on the boat.”
For interested parties, enquiries can be directed to Will Allison on 0419 366 885 or via email at .
