Next Step in Developing UK Services

Damen has announced that it has acquired I.M.E Group Ltd, located in Southampton. This acquisition follows a strong partnership between the two companies since the launch of Damen Services’ UK Service Hub in 2021.

This investment aims to enhance Damen’s offerings in the UK, allowing them to provide comprehensive support to clients in their daily operations. As a result, Damen’s customers in the UK can expect quick on-site assistance, mechanical and electrical engineering, docking services, parts supply, and maintenance for both Damen and non-Damen vessels.

The Next Step

According to Edwin van der Poel, Director at Damen Services UK, “This acquisition reflects the strong connection between our companies over the past few years. Our collaboration has been successful, and we have aligned our values and standards. By welcoming I.M.E into the Damen Services family, we are enhancing our service offerings for our UK clients, ensuring they receive reliable, 24/7 support.”

Paul Langford, Founder and Managing Director of I.M.E, added: “From the start, our partnership with Damen Services and Michael Nolan, Service Hub Manager UK, has felt natural. We both prioritize quality, responsiveness, and customer satisfaction. Joining the Damen Services family is a significant step for I.M.E, and we are eager to continue providing top-notch service with even more resources at our disposal.”

Global Support Network

Damen opened its UK Service Hub in 2021 to provide lifecycle support to operators of Damen vessels in the area. The company has a global network of such hubs, allowing clients to access fast and reliable local services.

When planning to establish the UK Service Hub, Damen chose Southampton for its strategic location, close to marine traffic and numerous workboats in the English Channel area.

Local Collaboration

In line with Damen Shipyards Group's approach to international operations, the Service Hub aimed to collaborate with local suppliers whenever possible. This led to frequent interactions with I.M.E, as both companies shared several clients.

Founded in 2006, I.M.E specializes in providing 24/7 repair and maintenance support to clients in the maritime and energy sectors, offering services that range from everyday breakdowns to complete turnkey projects.

In 2023, the strong collaboration between Damen Services and I.M.E culminated in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement allowed Damen Services to utilize I.M.E’s facilities, including office space, workshops, and equipment, helping to expand their service operations in the UK.

Damen Services UK has further increased its support for UK clients with the recent opening of an office in Portchester, situated next to a docking site that has synchrolift capabilities.