From photography to the high seas: Mecca Enterprises celebrates six decades 1964-2024
The Chetcuti family was rewarded for selling the first Ranieri Cayman 33.0, a brand-new 2025 model powered by twin Mercury 350Hp V10, before its launch to the retail market. Pictured here are Piero Ranieri, founder of Ranieri International, and his eldest son, Salvatore Ranieri, sales director; Paul and Josephine Chetcuti, founders of MECCA, together with sons Nichol and Andre Chetcuti.
As Mecca Enterprises Group marks its 60th anniversary this year, the company reflects on its remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Malta's leading import, export and distribution firms.
Established in 1964, the group has grown into a trusted name in the maritime industry and beyond, representing over 100 suppliers from Europe, America, and the Far East.
Mecca's origins are steeped in the world of photography. Founded as Mecca Photo Studio, the company initially specialised in professional portraiture, still and cine photography for weddings and various social events. They quickly made a name for themselves and provided commercial photography services such as hotel brochures and other advertising media.
Beyond the studio work, Mecca became a distributor of photographic products, from keychains and photo frames to cameras. This early success laid the foundation for their expansion into new markets over the following decades.
By the 1980s, Mecca Enterprises had significantly diversified its offerings. The company's import portfolio grew to include carnival and theatrical products, educational and sporting equipment, and household appliances. Their ability to adapt to new market trends and an expanding distribution network helped them secure their position as one of Malta's leading distributors.
Ranieri Cayman 33.0 and Next 255 LX
The marine arm: A turning point
Andre and Nichol Chetcuti's leadership began a new era for Mecca in the 1990s. Under their guidance, the company's marine division expanded exponentially. Today, Mecca is synonymous with maritime excellence, offering a wide range of marine products, including tenders, dinghies, powerboats, cabin cruisers, and yachts. The company also provides marine engines, safety equipment, chandlery, installations, engine servicing, upholstery, electrical maintenance, and antifouling services.
Salpa Avantguard 35
Their state-of-the-art facilities include a 6,000-square-meter boatyard in Maghtab and a 1,200-square-meter showroom spanning six floors. These spaces showcase many boats and marine products from renowned brands like Mercury Outboards, Bayliner, Ranieri International, and Sea Ray. Mecca's role as an importer and service centre for brands such as MerCruiser Inboards and Simrad Marine Electronics has solidified its reputation as a one-stop solution for all maritime needs.
Ranieri Next 370
Brands that shape the marine division
Mecca's marine division is home to an impressive roster of brands, offering everything from luxury yachts to essential marine accessories. Quicksilver, Ranieri International, and Sea Ray are the high-end brands the company represents, offering premium cruising and watersports boats. For those looking for durable and versatile options, Highfield provides top-quality RIBs, while Jobe supplies watersports equipment like life jackets, towables, and wetsuits.
Ranieri EVO 25 powered by Mercury 300Hp V8
Additionally, Mecca is the go-to supplier for safety gear, including life jackets, life rafts, and marine electronics from Lowrance and Simrad. Whether for a weekend fishing trip or a luxury yacht outing, Mecca Enterprises ensures that every marine enthusiast is well-equipped.
Beyond marine: Diversification into toys, pools and real estate
Mecca's diversification is not limited to the marine sector. The group also operates divisions specialising in carnival toys, pools, and garden furniture. Their presence in the real estate market has grown, with a portfolio of holiday apartments complementing their boatyard and marine services.
Mecca is celebrating 15 years of Mercury Marine dealership
A commitment to service and innovation
Throughout its 60 years, Mecca Enterprises has remained committed to providing high-quality products and services to its customers. The company prides itself on staying ahead of market trends, constantly expanding its offerings and improving its facilities to meet customer demand.
Highfield Sport 900 powered by Twin 300Hp V8
As the company celebrates this milestone anniversary, it looks towards the future. With a robust legacy and an ever-expanding range of services, Mecca Enterprises is poised to remain the cornerstone of the Maltese maritime industry for decades.
The Mediterranean is again set to host one of the world's most exciting and challenging offshore yacht races: the 2024 Rolex Middle Sea Race. With its iconic 606-nautical-mile course that takes sailors around Sicily, through the Strait of Messina, past the volcanic Aeolian and Egadi Islands, Pantelleria, and Lampedusa, and then back to Malta, this race continues to be the pinnacle of offshore racing.