CRAIG Group of Aberdeen said yesterday it had launched Craig International Supplies (CIS) in Angola to expand its coverage of the African market.
The oilfield procurement division of the shipping and energy service firm has set up in Luanda to complement operations in its Cape Town office in South Africa and to capitalise on growing opportunities throughout Africa.
It is anticipated that the combined forces of the two offices will soon achieve a 30% increase in international business for CIS which currently has a turnover of about £35million. Two-fifths of CIS turnover comes from overseas work, delivered through its network of offices in the UK, Africa and America.
The Angolan office, initially employing several local people, is led by newly appointed country manager for Africa Thinus Von Waltsleben.
CIS managing director David Allan, said: “The opening in Angola strengthens our global network of coverage and makes sure we are where clients need us, when they need us with an enhanced procurement capability.
“Our Cape Town office, with 10 years’ experience of operating in south and west Africa, has given us a strong platform from which to build our business in this emerging market.”
Craig Group managing director Douglas Craig said: “Through this investment in Angola and other recent investments in CIS, we are reinforcing our commitment to being a worldwide leader in oilfield procurement.”