### DOF Group Acquires Maersk Supply Service: A Strategic Expansion in the Offshore Energy Sector
In a significant move, DOF Group, a Norwegian offshore service provider, has completed the acquisition of Maersk Supply Service, a Denmark-based vessel operator. This acquisition marks a substantial expansion for DOF, solidifying its position as a major player in the offshore energy sector.
#### Transaction Overview
The acquisition, valued at approximately $1.1 billion, consists of a mix of cash and shares. Through this deal, DOF Group will absorb 22 high-quality subsea construction and anchor handling tug supply (AHTS) vessels from Maersk Supply Service, bringing its total fleet to 78 modern offshore/subsea vessels. Out of these, 65 are owned by DOF, including 33 construction support vessels (CSVs), 25 AHTS vessels, six platform supply vessels, and one cable-layer vessel. This acquisition not only enhances DOF’s operational capacity but also aligns with its strategy to offer comprehensive services across all continents in the offshore energy industry.
#### Workforce Integration
The transaction has brought together over 5,400 employees from both DOF and Maersk Supply Service. This significant workforce integration is expected to bolster DOF’s global presence and enhance its service offerings. The combined entity will continue to operate under the DOF brand, with the former Maersk Supply Service operations being renamed to DOF Denmark.
#### Strategic Compatibility
The acquired fleet, with an average age of 8.5 years, complements DOF’s existing fleet, which had an average age of 11.7 years. This addition is anticipated to reduce the overall average age of DOF’s combined subsea and AHTS vessel fleet, positioning the company for enhanced operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
#### Excluded Operations
It is important to note that the acquisition does not include Maersk Offshore Wind operations or the Brazilian operations of Maersk Supply Service. These entities will remain independent under their respective brands, AP Moller Holding and Maersk Supply Service Brazil.
#### Future Prospects
The acquisition positions DOF Group as one of the largest oil services companies listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. With its enlarged fleet and expanded workforce, DOF is well-prepared to fulfill future growth ambitions. The company’s CEO, Mons Aase, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming new colleagues and collectively developing the combined company as a global leading offshore service provider