Business / Ocean Kinetics expands into Orkney after buying engineering firm
LOCAL marine engineering firm Ocean Kinetics is expanding its business interests by establishing a presence in Orkney.
The company announced on Wednesday that it had completed the purchase of Hamnavoe Engineering in Stromness.
Ocean Kinetics managing director John Henderson said long-term plans include building new premises in Orkney, investing in new equipment and the recruitment of apprentices and tradesmen.
“This is an exciting development and a very positive step for both companies and their customers,” he said.
“In addition to building on the excellent engineering services that Ralph [Stevenson] and Dave [Hourston] already provide in Orkney, we will be expanding to deliver a high-quality fabrication facility, which will include coded welding, on site machining, and induction heating.”
The company plans to retain the Stromness base for 12 to 18 months while a new facility with modern machinery and equipment is established at Hatston. The new premises will stock a range of metals, fittings and fixings.
Henderson added: “All the current staff will continue to work with us, and we will also be expanding the team by recruiting new apprentices and tradesmen.
“Ralph will continue to play an active role as he works towards retirement and gradually hands over the running of the Orkney service to his son Garry.
“We look forward to continuing to fulfil the contracts that both Hamnavoe Engineering and Ocean Kinetics already have with customers in Orkney, and very much believe that our expanded service and additional resources will be even more beneficial to businesses across the county.”
Ocean Kinetics carries out similar services to Hamnavoe Engineering but on a larger scale, with specialisms that include fabrication in steel, stainless and aluminium, machining and manufacture, inspection and testing, industrial insulation and cladding, as well as other services including rope access and underwater works.
The company has modern workshops and design offices in Shetland as well as two workshops in Aberdeen.
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