Wilhelmsen Ships Service (WSS) has announced completion of the first phase of integration of the Nalfleet marine chemicals business. Nalfleet marine chemicals production has now been transferred from Nalco UK to the Wilhelmsen Chemicals manufacturing plant in Tonsberg, Norway and Nalfleet Customer Services and logistics operations have been integrated into the WSS network. As a result, Nalfleet customers can now take advantage of Wilhelmsen Ships Service’s extensive customer service operation. Over the coming months, WSS will carry out a review of the Nalfleet offering and look to consolidate product lines to further improve technical and logistics offerings and continue to strengthen its marine chemicals portfolio. Graham Hunter, Business Director Marine Chemicals at Wilhelmsen Ships Service says the project is now entering an important phase. “These are exciting times for us. Unitor is already a strong brand within the maritime industry. The addition of Nalfleet, the integration of its services and its team of highly skilled individuals will enable us to offer the market a strong chemicals solution, supported by the worldwide reputation of Wilhelmsen Ships Service.”
“Our vision for the next three to five years is to transform our customer's experience from one where we reliably deliver a product range to that of a consultative partnership, delivering technical expertise and after sales service. Ultimately, our aim is to become the premium chemical solutions provider for the marine industry.”
As the Nalfleet acquisition is completed, the WSS chemicals business will face a number of challenges and opportunities as demands for environmental compliance grow stronger and wider industry issues such as fuel quality, waste water, crew training and safety are addressed. Despite the changes that are taking place within the industry, Mr Hunter is confident that the WSS chemicals business will be positioned to take advantage of changes in regulation and advances in technology, “Our products are developed and applied to protect valuable equipment assets and our customers value our ability to provide global technical service and technical support.”
“We plan to enhance our service and support functions to ensure that our customers receive the support they require across the globe. We will also carry out research and product development to ensure that we continue to offer our customers an integrated, compliant, cost effective chemicals solution. Also, an on-going technical agreement with Nalco will give us the opportunity to bring their latest technologies to the marine industry”, concludes Hr Hunter.
