A UK investment company, STAR Capital, along with Dutch holding company Ackermans & van Haaren (AvH), has recently acquired V.Group, the shipmanagement conglomerate based in London. The purchase was made from U.S.-based private equity firm Advent International, which had owned V.Group since 2016. The deal is currently awaiting regulatory approval and is expected to be finalized by the fall, with the terms of the agreement remaining undisclosed.
Rene Kofod-Olsen, CEO of V.Group, expressed excitement about the acquisition, stating that the new investors bring valuable shipping sector experience that will further strengthen the company and allow for accelerated investments. V.Group is known as the largest third-party shipmanagement company globally, offering a comprehensive range of shipping services such as technical management, crewing, catering, agency services, and marine insurance. With a network of 60 offices in 30 countries, V.Group serves clients worldwide.
According to Aditya Bindal, Partner at STAR, V.Group aligns well with the investment strategy of STAR due to its strong brand and leading position in the fragmented market. This makes V.Group a natural choice for fleet owners and operators seeking technical management and marine services, especially those looking to outsource for the first time. V.Group currently manages 3,500 vessels, with a history of growth, including the recent acquisition of the shipmanagement arm of Belships in 2023, which added 30 bulkers to its portfolio.
The acquisition of V.Group by STAR and AvH marks a significant development in the shipmanagement industry, bringing together expertise and resources to further enhance the company’s capabilities. With a focus on providing top-notch services to fleet owners and operators globally, V.Group is poised to continue its growth trajectory and solidify its position as a leader in the sector. The partnership between STAR, AvH, and V.Group is expected to drive innovation and excellence in the maritime industry, benefiting clients and stakeholders alike.