MPC Oceanic Group agrees to acquire major stake in Marlow Navigation
MPC Oceanic Group has signed an agreement to acquire a 41% stake in ship management company Marlow Navigation, marking a significant investment in the global maritime services sector. The transaction, valued at approximately US$126 million, will establish a strategic shareholding while allowing Marlow’s existing owners to retain majority control.
Under the agreement announced on November 4, 2026, the purchase consideration comprises approximately US$97 million in cash and US$29 million in newly issued MPC Oceanic Group shares. The transaction remains subject to regulatory and antitrust approvals, along with customary closing conditions, with completion expected in early 2027.
Marlow Navigation provides ship management services, specialising in crew management and seafarer training. The group employs more than 1,300 shore-based professionals across 13 countries and has over 16,000 seafarers serving aboard vessels at any given time. Its crew management operations support more than 1,150 vessels trading worldwide, while the company generated approximately US$560 million in revenue during 2025.
Transaction structure and ownership
The share component of the acquisition will be implemented through a capital increase against contributions in kind, with new MPC Oceanic Group shares issued at EUR 7.00 each. Following completion, Marlow’s existing shareholders are expected to own approximately 9% of MPC Oceanic Group, creating a reciprocal ownership relationship between the two businesses.
MPC Oceanic Group plans to finance one-third of the cash consideration through existing resources and the remaining two-thirds through debt. The company also intends to propose the appointment of a representative of Marlow’s existing shareholders to its Supervisory Board at its next Annual General Meeting.
The shareholder agreements include provisions governing minority shareholder rights, access to information, financing arrangements, reciprocal acquisition rights and restrictions on share transfers. These arrangements will define MPC Oceanic Group’s position as a minority investor in Marlow following completion.
The proposed investment will expand MPC Oceanic Group’s exposure to maritime services, particularly crew management and seafarer training. For Marlow, the agreement introduces a significant new shareholder while preserving majority ownership among its existing investors.
The acquisition is expected to close in early 2027, subject to the necessary approvals and satisfaction of the remaining transaction conditions.
