Jifmar Offshore Services has successfully concluded the acquisition of Acta Marine Workboats, a prominent operator of workboat vessels. This move, solidified through a capital increase subscribed by Marguerite II and Jifmar's CEO, positions Jifmar as the world's largest independent workboat operator, overseeing a fleet exceeding 70 vessels.
As a Marguerite portfolio company since February 2022, Jifmar now takes ownership of Acta Marine Workboats' 26-strong fleet, including crews and operations comprising 200 employees. The acquisition not only fortifies Jifmar's global standing but also strategically establishes a significant presence in the Netherlands.
The workboat division of Acta Marine, now operating under the Jifmar brand, will continue its activities from Den Helder in the Netherlands. Govert Jan van Oord, the Managing Director of Acta Marine Workboats, will retain his role, leading the Dutch operations for Jifmar.
The acquisition financing involves a senior debt package arranged by Societe Generale on behalf of a French bank consortium, including Banque Delubac, BNP Paribas, regional Caisse d'Epargne, Credit Lyonnais, along with a facility from BPI France and asset-backed financing by Santander Alternative Investments.
Jean Michel Berud, CEO of Jifmar, highlighted the strategic significance of the acquisition, making Jifmar the world's leading independent workboat operator. The move provides a robust foothold in the Netherlands, a key hub for international workboat activities.
Michael Dedieu, Managing Partner at Marguerite, expressed excitement about supporting Jifmar's journey, citing the acquisition as a pivotal milestone following the recent launch of the Canopée, the first sail-powered hybrid cargo vessel. Dedieu emphasized Marguerite's commitment to assisting Jifmar in becoming a market reference in decarbonizing the maritime sector.
