A NEW FORCE ON THE WATERWAY

Two port services companies in West Wales and Southampton are to form a new joint company. The Milford Docks Company - part of the Milford Haven Port Authority Group – and Southampton-based Williams Shipping have today (16 August 2004) signed a joint-venture agreement which will create considerable opportunities to develop new business within the marine and port services sector in South Wales.

This new company, to be called Williams Marine and Port Services Ltd, will be based in Pembroke Port and provide a range of marine services to shipping and terminal operators in the Milford Haven waterway and throughout South Wales. A range of workboat, tug, ship supply and services will be provided to the expanding shipping activity in Milford Haven, Wales’ largest port, and provide a base for expansion throughout South Wales.

It will be formed by bringing together the assets and business of Marine and Port Services, a trading division of the Milford Docks Company, with the operational management and experience of Williams Shipping.

Said Andrew Brown for the Milford Docks Company:

“The demand for marine services is increasing rapidly with the growth of shipping in the port, and will increase further with the proposed LNG terminal developments. This new venture brings together the local knowledge and experience of the Milford Docks Company and the professional expertise and wider industry recognition of Williams Shipping. Together we will be able to respond more efficiently to a range of new business opportunities.”

Colin Williams for Williams Shipping said:

“Discussions between the two companies have been progressing over the last six months, culminating in today’s announcement, and we are delighted that we have reached an agreement which helps secure the future of our two businesses in a very competitive and fast moving market.”