Francesco Storti, Sales Area Manager of Italian Yacht Store for the Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia and Trentino Alto Adige regions, has an explosive personality and truly amazing interpersonal skills. When you have the opportunity to spend time with him, you get the impression that the people he knows are unlimited…
Having such a personality could be natural. But can someone born with a passion? In Francesco’s case, yes. He had only a week when his father, a shipowner and sailing enthusiast, took him on the first of many sailing trips that would follow. A moment that sealed the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship with boating and the sea.
A childhood spent in Lignano where he learns the sport of sailing, and becomes his passion. From 2000 to 2013 he competes in regattas, often together with his cousin Stefano (since 2003 several times member of Luna Rossa’s team at the America’s Cup).
When did you realize that your future career would be in the nautical industry?
In 2006 in Montecarlo. I sold my first boat: a used Pershing 46, only because of my knowledge and experience in the sector. After a month, I sold another yacht, this time a new 60-footer. So I realized that my destiny was to sell boats.
Since then I gained a lot of experience as a freelance broker in Montecarlo and Miami.
In 2012 I became a dealer for one of the most avant-garde brands at that time. In the 5 years I worked for the company, I participated in many national and international boat shows. These were very important opportunities to build relationships. Many of the contacts I still have today are the result of connections made during that time.
How did you get into Italian Yacht Store?
I spoke for the first time with the president of Italian Yacht Store, Michele Giacometti, on the phone. I wanted to conclude with him the sale of some boats that I was managing at the time. I sensed his seriousness and determination. I immediately understood that he had an extra gear.
Thanks to Michele, I have grown. I learned the importance of having a vision in the work, being reliable and clear and to say one less word, rather than one more.
I feel like it’s much more than “work” at Italian Yacht Store
I’m fond of Italian Yacht Store heart and soul, not only because I get on well with the people, but also because of the structure and organization of the work. In the company, it’s important to plan activities, to prioritize the relationship with the customer and to manage any problems that the owner may face.
What happens after you sell a boat?
When I sell a boat, it’s like I’m buying it. I feel like it’s mine and I try to remain a reference for the owner even after the purchase is completed.
What is the first skill of a good seller?
Definitely clarity. I always keep my word because it takes a lifetime to build a reputation and it only takes a second to ruin it.
Your office in Lignano is a point of reference.
My office is inside Marina Punta Faro, which is one of the largest marinas in Italy and the reference point for owners of large boats in Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia. It has 1500 berths mainly from 15 to 34 meters.
What do you recommend to those who want to have a boating vacation?
To have a good captain to enjoy the sea in total relaxation.