A significant share in the world’s largest supplier of hi-tech maritime laser docking systems has been acquired by Milford Haven Port.
Marimatech, a Danish company that began manufacturing laser docking technology in 1988, recently entered into administration after experiencing some financial difficulties. However, it was restructured and sold earlier this month, with Milford Haven Port – the third largest port in the UK – securing over a third of the business.
The Port’s director of corporate affairs, Mark Andrews, said it had been a satisfied customer of Marimatech for almost 10 years, and the company’s products continued to play a major role in the safe management of the Waterway.
“ Marimatech’s technology is second to none ,” he explained. “ So once we became aware of the company’s financial position, it seemed in everyone’s interests to reach an agreement with the three other investors, and the bank, to purchase a share of a restructured and, with the new equity injection, a significantly stronger business .
“ The business has a firm order book for the next 12 months and we are confident that the new management team will grow the business over the next three years. ”
Pilots at Milford Haven Port currently use the latest version of Marimatech’s ‘E-sea Fix’ system – a highly accurate position fixing system which pilots carry aboard ships. Mr Andrews added: “ The system gives the pilot a highly accurate picture of a vessel’s position, completely independent of its own equipment, and is of significant value when manoeuvring large ships. ”
Marimatech A/S was set up by Erik Brinch Nielsen in 1988. The other new owners of Marimatech are: investor Niels Jørgen Vase, who has more than 30 years’ experience in marine survey technology, engineering and software development businesses; Tommy Guldhammer Mikkelsen, Marimatech’s development manager with over 15 years’ experience in the sector; and Britt Degn Nielsen, Marimatech’s chief financial officer.
22 of the 35 staff will continue to be employed by the new company, which will also retain its name.
[mappress]
LNG World News Staff, March 15, 2012