4 Nov 2021

Global Survival Technology solutions company, Survitec has completed the acquisition of Blue Anchor Fire & Safety Ltd, one of Scotland’s major providers of survival solutions providers to the fisheries, maritime and offshore energy industries.

The investment, part of Survitec’s expansion strategy, follows the acquisition in May of Norway’s Hansen Protection, a renowned provider of personal protective equipment.

Acquisition of Blue Anchor Fire & Safety Ltd

Baba Devani, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Marine at Survitec, said “We are delighted to announce this acquisition, which marks another step forward in our strategic growth plan. With a similar offering, together with shared values in terms of quality and customer value, Blue Anchor is an excellent fit for Survitec. This investment allows us to enhance our capabilities across the region.

Blue Anchor offers survival solutions, including servicing, life-raft rental and product supply

Blue Anchor offers survival solutions, including servicing, life-raft rental and product supply, to a significant proportion of the UK fishing fleet; operates an MCA-approved life-raft service station in Boyndie, Scotland; is recognised as the major supplier of fire safety equipment to the Scottish fleets; and is one of only a handful of UKAS accredited companies certified to carry out gas cylinder testing in the country.

Loyal customer base and strong track record

With a loyal customer base and a strong track record of repeat and sustained business, the company has achieved year-on-year growth since it was established in 2006, particularly in the fisheries and aqua-culture business, which accounts for 60% of its revenue.

Growth has also been supported by investment in the life-raft hire fleet, with over 700 SOLAS approved life-rafts in operation.

Deal supports objective to improve coverage

Baba Devani adds, “The transaction supports our objective to improve our coverage in attractive markets.”

Blue Anchor’s Co-Founder - Scott Skinner, will continue at Blue Anchor as Operations Manager. He said “It is testament to the commitment and dedication of all my colleagues that Blue Anchor can generate interest from a global player like Survitec. By becoming a part of the Survitec family, our customers now have access to a larger portfolio of products and service network.

Increasing the utilisation rate of existing sites in Scotland

Scott Skinner adds, “The acquisition offers scope to increase the utilisation rate of existing sites in Scotland and develop new ones. Survitec’s presence across Scottish ports provides the opportunity for expansion across the UK including the Scottish Islands.

Blue Anchor’s existing sites in Boyndie (Banff) and Fraserburgh, North East Scotland, are considered large enough to accommodate growth in liferaft servicing, gas cylinder inspections, and increased utilisation of its warehouses and workshops shot blasting and painting facilities.