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IHC Merwede
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IHC Merwede is focused on the continuous development of its design and construction activities for the specialised shipbuilding sector, in particular the dredging and offshore industries. IHC Merwede is world market leader in the construction of specialist dredging equipment. IHC Merwede is also recognised as an outstanding builder of complex, custom-built vessels for offshore construction. The IHC Merwede units have been grouped together in three divisions: Dredging & Mining, Offshore & Marine, and the group of sector-related products and services. Rabo Private Equity participates in IHC Merwede since 2005. Since 2007, the company has a five-year committed credit agreement of EUR 900 mln with a consortium of banks, of which EUR 100 mln is for the financing of strategic takeovers. During 2008 IHC Merwede increased production capacity in China and has completed 4 acquisitions: two English offshore technology companies and two engineering companies (in the Netherlands and in Croatia). These companies further contribute to the profile of IHC Merwede as ‘the technology innovator from sea surface to ocean floor’. The takeovers are part of the company’s strategy to build on their technology and service position in the market by way of strategic acquisitions. IHC Merwede also invests significantly in Research & Development in all business units to become leading innovator. It devotes about 3% of revenue to an extensive R&D programme. Part of revenue is also devoted to the training and development of new and existing employees. Skilled personnel is hard to find in this market. To create a flexibel workforce IHC Merwede has its own accredited company training institute (TOC), which trained 80 employees for 2008. Another 240 people attended the IHC Merwede Management School in 2008. Investor: Rabo Private equity (management buy-out) Results 2008 |
