Major technological innovator, Yara Marine Technologies (YMT) has been acquired by Geneva-based Okapi Supply Trading Advisory SA (formerly Sarl) to expand its maritime solutions portfolio.
With a shared commitment to advancing sustainable solutions for the maritime industry, this new relationship sets the stage for the green solutions provider to accelerate the reach and impact of its industry-renowned decarbonisation technologies, supported by Okapi’s resources and drive.
Green technology solutions
There is a genuine need for trusted, robust, and well-tested green technology solutions
The acquisition comes at a pivotal moment for shipping, as the industry faces increasing emissions regulations and financial impetus to meet the 2030, 2040, and 2050 emissions goals set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
There is a genuine need for trusted, robust, and well-tested green technology solutions that are supported by resilient manufacturing and supply chains that match scale with rapidly increased market demand necessitating greater financial and organisational investment in new and existing technologies that enable this process.
Decarbonisation with operational excellence
Yara Marine Technologies’ Dr. Thomas Koniordos said, “This acquisition is the next step, and we eagerly anticipate the opportunities that lie ahead with Mohamed and the team at Okapi."
He adds, "Together, we will continue accelerating our industry’s transition to net zero through greater development and deployment of our cutting-edge decarbonisation technologies, reducing the environmental impact of maritime operations and improving operational excellence across our global fleet."
Addressing emission challenges
Okapi Supply Trading Advisory SA CEO, Mohamed J. Ndao said, “I’m pleased to welcome Yara Marine Technologies into the Okapi family. Their wide portfolio of innovative solutions showcases a variety of approaches and stackable alternatives that can serve as immediate options when addressing our industry’s emissions challenges."
Mohamed J. Ndao adds, "This aligns closely with our ambition to offer our customers easier pathways towards greening their operations. This union is an exciting new chapter, and I look forward to working together to create positive change for the marine environment and the maritime industry."
Strategic divestment
Yara Marine Technologies has been a valuable part of Yara for 10 years"
Congratulating Okapi on its acquisition, Magnus Ankarstrand, EVP of Yara Corporate Development said, “We are happy to have found a new owner that has a strong interest in developing the company further."
Magnus Ankarstrand adds, "Yara Marine Technologies has been a valuable part of Yara for 10 years. However, as Yara’s strategy is to focus its investments on the core business of sustainable food solutions and clean ammonia, a divestment of Yara Marine Technologies was a natural step.”
Green portfolio
The past few years have seen YMT establish a reputation as a market major in green technologies, with a portfolio of products seen across a variety of ship types.
Dr. Koniordos said, “We owe a debt of gratitude to Yara International for their invaluable support and partnership through our journey to this point. Their support and contributions have been instrumental in helping us innovate and progress our portfolio of decarbonisation solutions.”
Vessel optimisation technologies
The acquisition sets the stage for YMT’s launch of updated and new vessel optimisation technologies for the existing and future global fleet.
These will join their established portfolio of vessel optimisation technologies, such as propulsion optimisation system FuelOpt; state-of-the-art performance management and reporting system Fleet Analytics; cloud-based AI-powered ship operation support system RoutePilot AI; and shore power installations for vessels.
Wind-assisted propulsion
Additionally, YMT’s FuelOpt system also supports wind-assisted propulsion that optimises power and records fuel performance on vessels with sails, rotors, kites, and wings.
Customers with previously acquired products from YMT will continue to be expertly supported by lifecycle services, ensuring a continued experience of quality performance from previously delivered products and future maritime technologies.