An established consultancy business in Plymouth, which certifies maritime safety standards of commercial vessels, has been acquired for an undisclosed sum.
Mecal, which services a register of around 1,750 workboats and charter vessels worldwide, has been bought by Owen Preece, the boss of Southampton-based maritime sustainability consultancy Cedar Marine, and his wife Nadine from John and Julie Fearnley - who have run the company since 2006.
Under its new ownership, the company said it would continue in its ambition to establish itself internationally as a small vessel ‘class society’, as well as expand its expertise with larger, more complex vessels on its register and in the emerging field of alternative fuel and new technology vessels.
Originally founded in 1993, Mr Fearnley joined Mecal in the mid-1990s as a vessel surveyor following 24 years’ experience as a class surveyor with French certification firm Bureau Veritas.
The company said he had “contributed heavily” to professional certifications and standards across the maritime industry as an active member of multiple Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) technical working groups, together with the IMarEST Small Ships Group.
Mr Fearnley said: “It’s been a privilege to be part of the journey that has seen Mecal evolve to become one of the leading certifying authorities over the last thirty years.
“I’m happy to pass the torch to someone who shares my commitment to preserving and improving safety, technology, and sustainability standards in the industry.”
Mr Preece, who also previously worked at Bureau Veritas in roles ranging from naval architecture to business development, added: “We congratulate John and Julie on the impressive enterprise they’ve developed in Mecal.
“As professionals we’re aligned in our motivation to make a positive impact and drive sustainable, long-term change for the industry, and Nadine and I are very pleased to be taking Mecal forward into the next chapter in this journey."
Mecal said Mr Fearnley hoped he could continue to support Mecal in retirement.
Read next:
Delayed Plymouth waterfront apartment block reaches 'significant milestone'
Parmenion acquires EBI Portfolios in first deal since Abrdn sale
Wiltshire telecoms business acquired by fast-growing tech firm Babble
Cornwall’s Hub Box burger chain expands into Dorset, creating 25 jobs
Like this story? Why not sign up to get the latest South West business news straight to your inbox.
