Shipyard operator charts growth course after 'significant' takeover

A maritime engineer has expanded with a takeover.

Balaena has bought APCL Group.

The firm says the deal creates a 2000-plus-staff organisation and “marks a significant milestone” in plans to bolster Britain’s maritime and naval shipbuilding and repair sectors.

It says the agreement – which adds APCL Group’s A&P Tyne shipyard, Birkenhead-based Cammell Laird and A&P Falmouth and Falmouth Docks and Engineering Company to Balaena’s portfolio – will also deliver a new national skills and apprenticeship programme.

Bosses add further investment will be made across APCL Group’s sites to “expand capacity for ship repair, offshore fabrication and low-emission propulsion systems.”

Simon Gillett, founder and group chief executive of Balaena, which oversees Gibraltar’s Gibdock shipyard and a further base in Padstow, Cornwall, said the deal will “create one of the world’s most capable ship repair and shipbuilding groups”.

He said: “This reinforces our long-term commitment to British maritime capability, creating jobs, expanding apprenticeships and driving innovation.

“By uniting Balaena’s vision and ambition with APCL’s skilled teams, we are strengthening the UK’s ability to deliver for the Royal Navy and the global commercial maritime sector, while investing in the next generation of British shipbuilders and engineers”.

David McGinley, APCL Group chief executive, added: “Joining Balaena marks an exciting new chapter for APCL and our workforce. 

“It secures the future of our shipyards, allows new investment in digital and green shipbuilding technologies and renews our commitment to working closely with local communities on the Tyne, Birkenhead and Falmouth to create jobs, apprenticeships and lasting prosperity”.

A&P Tyne’s Hebburn-based yard recently welcomed Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambience vessel for a multi-million-pound refit and previously made four stern end units for HMS Belfast.

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