ASCO enhances West of Shetland service

Company News - July 17, 2012

Oil and gas logistics company ASCO has announced that it has acquired the remaining 50 per cent stake in Scrabster Port Services in Northern Scotland – enhancing its North Sea service offering, particularly in the West of Shetland. ASCO acquired the other 50 per cent stake in Scrabster Port Services in 2009.

Andrew Macdonald, ASCO’s Chief Executive Officer for its European region, commented:
“The acquisition of the remaining 50 per cent stake in Scrabster Port Services supports ASCO’s international growth strategy.

"Scrabster will be a key logistics hub as the substantial West of Shetland fields come on-stream in the coming years. It offers established quayside services and a fast, direct shipping route to offshore fields from the UK mainland.

“Our presence in Scrabster is great news for our clients who are actively looking for suitable, efficient logistics solutions to support their work in the northern North Sea and to service the West of Shetland. Today’s announcement is also great news for the local community as it reinforces our commitment to Caithness.”

William Calder, Chairman of Scrabster Harbour Trust, added: “Scrabster Harbour Trust welcomes the news of the ASCO acquisition. This reflects ASCO’s confidence in Scrabster’s pivotal role supporting the major oil and gas developments emerging West of Shetland.”

Scrabster Port Services was established in 1997 and has acted as a hub for offshore and production support west of Shetland, on the Atlantic frontier, and in the waters surrounding Faroe. It also handles cargo tonnage and works with cruise ship and research vessel operators.

A development programme is currently taking place at Scrabster to expand its deepwater quay, offering increased berthing capacity.

Scrabster Port Service’s small team of staff will remain with the business as ASCO employees.

The announcement comes following the recent news that ASCO has acquired international safety training and lifting specialist, North Sea Lifting Ltd (NSL), headquartered in Aberdeen.