Wärtsilä continues expansion

Wärtsilä will acquire the leading naval architecture and ship design company Conan Wu & Associates Pte Ltd (CWA), headquartered in Singapore. The deal also includes partnership agreements regarding CWA's business in Malaysia, China and Hong Kong.

In 2007, the turnover generated by CWA's businesses was 10.7 million Euro and the profitability was on a very good level. CWA has 66 employees in Singapore.

The acquisition of CWA is a further major step in Wärtsilä's strategy of strengthening its position as a total solutions provider, and of being the most valued partner for its customers. Expansion within ship design is an important move for Wärtsilä, as it brings the company closer to its maritime industry customers. Wärtsilä intends to offer the best and most efficient total solutions, regardless of equipment used.

The total marine solutions provided by Wärtsilä are described as uniquely competitive in their ability to integrate and optimize the various operating processes of the entire vessel. This new and innovative way of combining ship design know-how with equipment solutions and services will lead to significant customer benefits, e.g. in terms of improved efficiency and reduced emissions.

CWA is a leading player in this field, specializing in naval architecture and ship design services to ship builders and ship owners. The company's core competence is in the design of offshore vessels and tugs, as well as barges and smaller merchant vessels. CWA has a strong market position in South and South East Asia. As a part of Wärtsilä, CWA has excellent growth potential throughout the region, including China, India and Vietnam.

CWA will be integrated into Wärtsilä Ship Design within the company's Ship Power business. All personnel in Singapore will continue in Wärtsilä's service.