Harkand, which has its European headquarters in Aberdeen, announced a big US acquisition yesterday.
The international subsea inspection, repair, maintenance and light construction group, is buying the main assets and business of Veolia Marine Services (VMS) for an undisclosed sum.
The acquisition will add 150 staff, three dynamically positioned multi-purpose vessels (MPV) and six work-class remotely operated vehicles to Harkand’s growing workforce and fleet.
The vessels include the MPV Swordfish.
VMS was a division of Veolia Environmental Services.
Harkand said the deal would expand its international reach by adding a Houston operation.
Harkand chairman Tom Ehret said: “Our long-term strategy is to establish Harkand as the leading global player wholly focused on inspection, repair, maintenance and light construction.
“This market is showing positive long-term growth prospects, but lacks the presence of a true global specialist player, able to deliver consistent high-quality services in every region.
“The addition of VMS, with its complementary deepwater experience and established presence in the US, will cement our position and reinforce our ambition of becoming a global market leader.”
Harkand was launched in February through the merger of Iremis, Integrated Subsea Services and Andrews Survey following investment by US private-equity firm Oaktree Capital Management.
It employs more than 750 people at bases in Aberdeen, Dubai and Singapore and aims to grow turnover to £658million in five years.