Berg Propulsion has reached a formal partnership agreement with Stone Marine Services (SMS), a Scottish specialist in propulsion system retrofits and repairs, in a commitment to expand service and support activities across the UK and Ireland.
The new arrangement consolidates a partnership built over many years, reinforcing Berg’s capabilities to support and grow its customer base in markets where its focus to date has been on the ferry and fishing vessel sectors, including electric and hybrid propulsion systems.
Jörgen Karlsson, Berg GM Sales & Service, Europe and Americas, said: “Stone Marine has consistently shown itself as well-matched to the way Berg works as a team, taking the same approach to quality control, service excellence and documentation. This agreement strengthens our local presence and supports our robust service capability worldwide. Strong service teams close to market deliver the flexibility and timely response customers of Berg Propulsion have come to expect. We aim to grow by share and by vessel type in these markets.”
Under the terms of the non-exclusive agreement, Berg can leverage the SMS team of experienced engineers to carry out service work in other regions on a subcontractor basis. Berg will deliver additional product-specific training to SMS in order to familiarise its service engineers with the full range of propulsion solutions, including new and legacy equipment.
Karlsson added: “SMS has considerable experience with our products and solutions already, but this will be tailor-made training across our propulsion system portfolio. The partnership will be fully operational by autumn.”
Founded in 1999, though drawing on a maritime heritage dating to the 19th century through links to the Stone Marine Group, SMS specialises in the repair and servicing of all types of propellers, thrusters, steering gear and deck machinery. Its support includes spare parts supply, technical advice and assistance with planned maintenance and drydock works.
Ryan McIntyre, SMS MD, said: “We are delighted to announce our new partnership with Berg Propulsion. This agreement strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality service and support to customers across the UK and Ireland, backed by Berg Propulsion’s advanced propulsion technology and OEM parts.”
The agreement comes at a time when demand for hybrid-electric and fully electric drivetrain installations is on the rise, creating new opportunities for both companies in the UK and Ireland.
Karlsson concluded: “This won’t be the last agreement of its kind. We see strong potential in other regions like South America and Australia. Local service presence is essential: not only to support existing customers but to win new business.”
Image: L-R: Jörgen Karlsson, Berg Propulsion; Ryan McIntyre, SMS; Thomas Panter, SMS; Johan Dyberg, Berg Propulsion (source: Berg Propulsion)
