With plans to open a network of sales and representative offices throughout the world, the Ulstein Group aims to raise its global profile to the next level.
Headquartered on the west coast of Norway, the Ulstein Group has already started to build up a network of international sales and representative Offices in global locations.
Known as the Ulstein Sales and Representatives Offices (USRO) the new initiative represents a significant milestone for the company. According to Ulstein's Jan Erik Granholdt, who will be responsible for the global establishment, the process is vital to the company's future growth.
"We operate in an international industry, and we recognise the importance of staying closer to the major shipowners around the globe," he said. "By establishing an international presence we can stay closer to our existing customers and attract businesses from new ones."
Great expectations
Mr Granholdt explains there are three components to the international offices.
"Our objective is to generate increased revenue from our product portfolio, seek new business opportunities and raise Ulstein's global profile," Mr Grandholdt said. "The USRO will market Ulstein design, engineering packages and parts, such as special systems developed by Ulstein Elektro. In addition, the USRO concept will help the company optimise its after sale services.
"Ulstein designs and constructs vessels for a broad range of customers and works with a number of suppliers and shipyards around the world."
While Ulstein's existing after sale-services are strong, Mr Granholdt says that without a local presence, the company is at a disadvantage.
"For all its technical sophistication, shipping remains a business driven by personal relationships," said Mr Granholt. "The USRO concept will…help us establish relationships with potential customers and strengthen our profile in select markets."
The company plans to establish offices in North America, South America (under establishment in Brazil), Europe the Middle East (established in Dubai) and Asia, (under establishment in Singapore and established in Shanghai) over the next five years.
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