An Invergordon firm that was founded as a ferry operator nearly 50 years ago and evolved to meet the needs of a growing oil and gas industry has been swallowed up by Global Energy Group.
Aberdeen and Inverness-based Global said yesterday it had acquired MF Marine Operations through its Caledonian Towage subsidiary.
Global – owned by Highland businessman Roy MacGregor and his family – did not say how much it paid Colin Watson, MF Marine’s owner and managing director, for the business.
But it did confirm that Mr Watson and his operations team would be staying on.
The ferry operation that was set up in 1967 soon gave way to new work servicing the fast-growing energy industry in and around the Moray Firth and MF Marine today specialises in a broad of marine operations, including workboat and barge hire and labour, consultancy and project management services.
Mr MacGregor, Global’s chairman, said: “The acquisition of MF Marine is part of our continuing strategy for expansion alongside organic developments within our various business streams.
“We have enjoyed a strong and positive working relationship with MF Marine over many years and their strengths and knowledge will add to the portfolio of services we offer our clients.
“The addition of specialist marine personnel and services further strengthens our marine portfolio and adds a fleet of vessels and barges, in a variety of roles, to further compliment our existing towage business in the area.”
He added: “I am delighted that our capability will now include transportation of cargo and personnel, the supply of potable water and fuel, safety standby cover, crane/lifting platforms, oil rig anchor chain removal/reinstatement, cruise liner and oil tanker mooring, and general harbour duties.
“All of these services are highly complimentary to our existing offering and are of great importance going forward as our vision for Nigg becomes a reality, in ensuring the Easter Ross site fulfils its potential as a multi-user energy hub attracting business from international operators.”
Mr Watson said: “The sale of MF Marine to a company of Global Energy Group’s stature and standing in the oil and gas industry in an extremely positive and strategic move for both organisations, especially given the current climate.
“Global Energy Group has a clear vision for future development opportunities and MF Marine, along with Caledonian Towage, will contribute significantly going forward.”
Global’s acquisition of the Nigg site in October 2011 in a deal believed to be worth more than £10million reinvigorated 238 acres which had become largely redundant.
The group announced last year it was to spend the extra £20million on a second phase of development at the yard to turn it into a world-class port with deep-water berths, having already invested £37million in the facilities.
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