Major UK ship supplier, Hutton’s, has underlined its commitment to the UK chandlery sector by acquiring Milford Haven-based Pan Europe Ship Supply Ltd, for an undisclosed sum.
Pan Europe will operate under the Hutton’s brand and will continue to be one of the leading suppliers of provisions as well as medical, technical and industrial stores to all vessels loading and/or discharging at Milford’s Oil & Gas Refineries which represent 20% of the UK’s oil refining capacity. The new LNG terminals now in operation at the port will provide 30% of the UK’s gas requirements.
The acquisition will ensure continuity of sales and service for all ships and their owners and managers and will increase Hutton’s branch network to ensure full coverage of all UK ports. This new base in Milford Haven covers all south coast ports from Avonmouth/Portbury, along the South Wales coast, Newport, Cardiff, Port Talbot and, of course, Pembroke and Milford Haven.
Alex Taylor, Managing Director of Hutton’s, said: ”Completion of this acquisition represents a significant step for Hutton’s in our strategy to accelerate growth in the supply of marine products and services we are able to provide our customers. South Wales, and Milford Haven in particular, is a difficult area to support due to its distance from other UK suppliers. Having a local presence is essential and with this exciting development, Hutton’s is the only supplier which can offer full local coverage to the UK’s port network.
“We have significantly increased the depth and breadth of our sales coverage in the UK by merging with Pan Europe whose staff know the marketplace and our products, and who already have existing client relationships. We welcome them to the Hutton’s team,” he added.
