Fisher (James) & Sons PLC
26 October 2000
James Fisher Welcomes MoD Preferred Bidder Announcement
for AWSR Consortium
James Fisher and Sons Public Limited Company, leading
shipowners and managers with a 40 strong fleet of specialist
vessels and related engineering interests, welcomed today's
announcement naming the AWSR consortium of which James Fisher
is a member as preferred bidder for the provision of the
Ministry's Strategic Sealift Service.
David Cobb, Chairman of James Fisher, said: 'The six ship
RoRo programme is the welcome culmination of a considerable
amount of work over a long period of time with our partners.
The process has built a strong bond between the consortium
members who, in combination, offer unrivalled experience in
ship ownership and operation. It is important to note that
such talent is available within British shipping companies.
'James Fisher's business is underpinned by a strong contract
base. A 20 year customer relationship such as the RoRo
contract is a perfect strategic fit.'
AWSR Ltd is an all-British consortium comprising James Fisher,
Andrew Weir Shipping Limited, Bibby International (IOM) and
Houlder Offshore Engineering.
This latest success for James Fisher adds to its portfolio of
contracts with the Ministry of Defence. The company already
manages a warehousing and stock control system for RAF Sealand
and charters The RFA Oakleaf to the MoD. In addition it is
currently bidding for the provision of Marine Support to
Ranges and Aircrew Training.
The news also follows the recent announcement by James Fisher
that it is investing £40 million in the purchase of two ships
for conversion to cable layers which will double the company's
participation in this fast growing market.
Press Enquiries: David B Cobb, CBE
Chairman
James Fisher and Sons Public Limited Company
Tel: 020 7338 5808
Issued on behalf of James Fisher and Sons Public Limited
Company by Tavistock Communications Limited (Contact Keith
Payne, tel: 020 7600 2288).