By
Laura Hyde |
UK maritime engineering and shipbuilding group Balaena has acquired APCL Group, which operates four shipyards – Cammell Laird, A&P Tyne, A&P Falmouth and Falmouth Docks and Engineering Company – in England.
“This acquisition reinforces our long-term commitment to British maritime capability – creating jobs, expanding apprenticeships and driving innovation in line with the ambitions of the Strategic Defence Review and the UK’s Industrial Strategy,” said Simon Gillett, founder and group chief executive officer of Balaena. “By uniting Balaena’s vision and ambition with APCL’s skilled teams in Tyne, Birkenhead and Falmouth, we are strengthening the UK’s ability to deliver for both the Royal Navy and the global commercial maritime sector, while investing in the next generation of British shipbuilders and engineers.”
Balaena plans to modernise APCL’s existing facilities, including expanding capacity for ship repair, offshore fabrication and low-emission propulsion systems. It also aims to establish a national skills and apprenticeship programme in partnership with local colleges and maritime training bodies to develop Britain’s next generation of maritime professionals.
“Joining Balaena marks an exciting new chapter for APCL and our workforce,” said David McGinley, CEO of APCL Group. “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 Tyne, Birkenhead, and Falmouth to create jobs, apprenticeships, and lasting prosperity.”