Dutch ferry group acquires Norse Merchant Group

Dutch ferry group, Norfolkline, have bought the Norse Merchant Group (NMG) and its subsidiaries today.

Announcing the news, CEO of Norfolkline Group, Thomas Woldbye said: "The acquisition of Norse Merchant Group firmly establishes Norfolkline's commitment to the UK and Irish markets."

Derek Sloan, NMG CEO, has resigned, whilst NMG Managing Director, Phillip Shepherd will join the Norfolkline Management team as the Director of Irish Sea Ferry Services.

The integration is expected to be completed no later than April 2006.

NorseMerchant Ferries operates sailings from Belfast and Dublin to the UK, amongst others.

The company has 450 employees and operates dedicated terminals in Belfast, Dublin and Birkenhead.