Maersk Tankers, part of A.P. Moller – Maersk Group, has completed the sale of twelve medium-sized coastal tankers, managed by Broström in Gothenburg, to Erik Thun AB which resumes its old name Thun Tankers.
The Swedish company has bought 50% shares in twelve vessels in which it already owns the other half.
All vessels, including a thirteenth vessel which is fully owned by Brostrom, are part of Maersk’s Small Northwest Europe segment.
Hanne B Sørensen, Chief Executive Officer, of Maersk Tankers , is reported by Ship Management International website as saying that this deal was part of Maersk Tankers’ strategy to simplify and streamline their business and the company’s plan to focus on fewer segments going forward, thus this divestment opportunity comes at the right time and under the right conditions.
Anders Källsson, Chief Executive Officer of, Erik Thun AB stated that this was a natural step for Thun to invest further in the small tanker segment by taking over Broström’s 50% share in the vessels. According to him, iIt will keep the company’s fleet together.
“We see the golden opportunity to get into the commercial tanker market again” , added Mr Källsson.
The purchased vessels belong to G-series, delivered during the period from 1999 to 2009. The vessels have deadweight in a range of 6,535 to 7,759.
[mappress] World Maritime News Staff, November 1, 2012