V.Ships and Empros Lines partner to provide technical management to bulk carriers

V.Ships, part of the V.Group, has entered into a partnership with Empros Lines to create a dedicated bulk carrier management cell in Greece. The cell will be staffed by the Empros’ technical team and hosted in the Piraeus office of V.Ships.

Managed by V.Ships Greece, from the office in Piraeus, the partnership builds on the successful container cell established in 2013 with Costamare and further demonstrates V.Group’s commitment to the Greek shipping industry. A steering committee formed of senior executives from both V.Ships and Empros Lines will oversee the cell’s operations.

The bulk carrier cell is also extending its offer to third party clients who want to take advantage of the technical excellence and cost efficiencies this proposition offers. It has already undertaken the technical management of two bulkers from different owners.

Empros Lines will continue to provide full commercial management for their owned fleet from their offices in Athens and will be available to provide such services to any third party clients joining the cell.

Clive Richardson, chief executive officer, V.Group said: “In a challenging market, ship owners and operators need innovative solutions and the cell strategy has already proven that through collaboration we are able to offer an attractive outsourcing proposition. We are also committed to our investment in the Greek shipping industry by providing a management solution, which will retain and develop employment and technical excellence in Greece.”

George Makrymichalos, president, Empros Lines added: “We are confident that the cell will build on the extensive know-how and experience of a traditional Greek shipping company and ensure Empros Lines strong ethics and values are reflected on the services this platform will offer to the Greek shipping market.. We are looking forward to working and growing with our partners and promoting third party management services to the Greek Shipping community.”