Maritime simulation company VSTEP has welcomed Dutch industrial investor Pindustry as its new majority shareholder, replacing the Van den Berg shipping family while retaining the existing management team and growth strategy.
The Rotterdam-based company develops the NAUTIS maritime simulation system, which is used by maritime training institutes, fleet operators, port authorities, navies and coast guards in more than 70 countries.
Customers include Damen Shipyards, Fugro, the Royal Netherlands Navy, the Swedish Navy, Viking Cruises and the Dutch pilotage service.
“Every day, maritime professionals around the world step onto a ship’s bridge after training with NAUTIS. That responsibility drives us,” said Fabian van den Berg, CEO of VSTEP.
“We have ambitious plans, a diverse and inventive team, and customers who inspire us to keep moving forward. With Pindustry on board, we have additional strategic experience and support to accelerate our growth.”
Pindustry is an independent Dutch investment company focused on manufacturing and technology businesses. The company said it sees opportunities for growth in maritime digitalisation as well as increasing demand for simulation from navies and inland shipping.
“VSTEP combines a strong software platform with deep domain expertise in the maritime sector,” said Tjalko Reedijk, Managing Partner at Pindustry.
“The rapidly digitalising maritime market and strongly growing demand from navies and inland shipping offer ample opportunities for VSTEP. We look forward to supporting the management team in the next phase of growth.”
No financial details of the transaction were disclosed.
