Authorities are greatly concerned for the well-being of Quiksilver (and Boardriders Group) CEO Pierre Agńes after his boat washed ashore empty in South West France this morning.

Agnes had been out fishing off the coast of Hossegor, home of the Quiksilver Pro France and just up the coast from the company’s France headquarters. The fifty-four year old is reported to have set off alone, around 7.30 am in his eleven foot boat, from the port of Capbreton.

There was a solid swell running and a dense incoming fog, promting to Agnes send a message to the harbour master to alert him that he would be postponing his return due to the difficult conditions.

A few hours later, at 9.30am his boat was found empty washed up on the beach at La Graviere. A huge coordinated search operation, including multiple boats and aircraft has since got underway.

Mr Agnes heads up the Boardriders Group, which owns Quiksilver, DC, Roxy and recently acquired a majority stake in Billabong.

Our thoughts are with Mr Agnes’ family and friends, as well as the local community at what must be an incredibly difficult time.