SIMIC

WSM and MPC Capital have agreed to combine technical ship management of containerships with a new joint venture Wilhelmsen Ahrenkiel Ship Management owned 50 – 50 by the two companies.

The joint venture will operate from Ahrenkiel’s current locations in Hamburg and Rhoon and be supported by the global network of Singapore-headquartered WSM.

Related: Surge in lay-up enquiries eclipses financial crisis - WSM

“We are very happy to strengthen our presence in Germany together with a strong partner like MPC Capital,” said Carl Schou ceo and president of WSM.

“We believe Ahrenkiel Steamship is a good fit as we share many common values; focusing on quality, heritage and at the same time have ambitious goals to utilize digital technology to enhance and improve the operations. We are looking forward to develop a strong track record together in the container segment through this partnership.”

The joint venture currently has a fleet of 72 vessels under management and will focus on feeder container vessels in the 1,000 – 3,000 teu capacity range.

Head of Ahrenkiel Steamship Michael Silies will take up the role of managing director at the joint venture.

Christian Rychly, managing director of MPC Capital, said: “We want to offer the best services to our clients and Wilhelmsen’s network and expertise in other shipping segments will improve our position in the container segment.”