The Chouest Group has announced the acquisition of Kystdesign, a premier manufacturer of remotely operated vehicle (ROV) systems. This strategic move reinforces Chouest's commitment to innovation and excellence in underwater robotics, further solidifying its position as a global leader in subsea technology.
Dino Chouest expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: 'We are thrilled to welcome Kystdesign and its talented team into the Chouest family. By joining forces, we will continue delivering cutting-edge ROV systems and advancing the evolution of next-generation underwater robotics.'
Tore Nedland, CEO of Kystdesign, echoed this excitement, emphasizing the opportunities ahead: 'Kystdesign has always been dedicated to engineering high-quality, reliable subsea solutions. Becoming part of the Chouest Group – an industry leader in offshore and subsea operations – provides us with the resources, expertise, and global network to accelerate innovation and better serve our clients worldwide. We are excited about the future and the groundbreaking advancements we will achieve together.'
This acquisition strengthens Chouest's subsea capabilities, ensuring continued support for Kystdesign's existing clients while enhancing in-house solutions for C-Innovation and ROVOP – key players within the Chouest portfolio. The first integrated ROV system under this partnership is already in development, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both companies.
With this integration, Kystdesign joins Chouest's global workforce approaching 20,000 employees. This collaboration is expected to drive significant advancements in subsea technology, unlocking new possibilities in deepwater operations and design.
Sven Stakkestad, chairman of the board of Kystdesign, states: 'It is the right time to hand over Kystdesign to a new owner. The Chouest Group possesses the knowledge, strength and ambitions necessary to guide the company's future growth. We welcome the Chouest Group to the Haugaland offshore cluster and extend our best wishes to the entire team.'
Kystdesign has achieved tremendous growth in recent years – including doubling its workforce, projected 2024 turnover approaching NOK 500 million, and a record-high order backlog. Sven Stakkestad acknowledges: 'This success would not be achievable without our strong team of employees, our loyal customers, and the solid foundation established by founder Erik Kold Bakkevig, who led Kystdesign until his passing in 2022.'
About Edison Chouest Offshore
Founded as Edison Chouest Boat Rental in 1960, ECO is recognized today as the most diverse and dynamic marine transportation solution provider in the world. ECO operates a growing fleet of almost 300 vessels, up to 525 feet in length, and serves an expanding global customer base. ECO is the largest provider of U.S. ‘Jones Act’ compliant offshore marine vessels, the largest provider of offshore marine service vessels to Central and South American markets, has the largest base of shipyards in the U.S., owns and manages world-class port terminal facilities and operates worldwide on all oceans, including the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Staying on the forefront of new technologies is an integral part of the ECO vision, as evidenced by recent advances in the areas of emissions reductions, subsea support services, integrated bridge systems, remote monitoring of vessel systems and global communications.
Source: Chouest Group
