APCL Group, a leading provider of maritime services, ship build and repair services to the defence and commercial maritime markets has been acquired by Balaena

Arrowpoint Advisory’s Energy Transition and Infrastructure team has advised Peel Group on its disposal of APCL Group to Balaena.

APCL Group is a leading maritime brand, operating the UK’s two largest ship build and repair companies – Cammell Laird and A&P Group. The Group is uniquely positioned across the North East, North West and South West of England, and boasts leading facilities through its 9 dry docks with over 3km of wet berths. The Group is a critical supplier to the MoD and since 2008, has been awarded the framework to service the RFA fleet globally alongside supporting as a subcontractor for the UK’s Defence initiatives.

Mark Whitworth, Chairman at Peel Group, said: “I would like to extend my congratulations to Simon Gillett, CEO and owner of Balaena Group, on the acquisition of APCL Group. Simon and his team have worked tirelessly over many months to secure this opportunity, and they have demonstrated a clear and ambitious plan to support the long term prosperity of the business.

“Peel Group assumed full ownership of APCL during a period of significant financial difficulty, following the ill fated Polar Research Vessel contract. Our priority was to stabilise, recover, and protect the thousands of livelihoods that depend on this business. From the outset, our intention was to pass the organisation to a new custodian with the conviction and capability to realise its full potential as a rapidly growing enterprise.

“We are confident that Balaena is that custodian. Their maritime expertise, entrepreneurial culture, and strategically advantaged international shipbuilding and repair assets create a powerful platform for future growth. We believe this enlarged network will offer a unique and compelling proposition to the market.

“I would also like to express our sincere thanks to APCL Chief Executive David McGinley and his team, whose leadership has been instrumental in transforming the Group’s fortunes.”

Mark, went on to add: “Ian Brown of Rothschild & Co, together with his team have delivered an excellent outcome for all parties from what has been a complex process.”

Ian Brown, Managing Director at Arrowpoint Advisory, commented: “We are delighted to have supported Peel Group and the management of APCL Group on this transaction and are excited about what this partnership with bring to the UK shipbuilding and repair industry.”

Contact the deal team

DISCOVER our sell-side transactions