International technology firm snaps up RS Aqua

UK marine technology specialist RS Aqua has been acquired by General Oceans, an underwater technology group with operations in Norway, the UK and the United States.

In a joint statement the companies said the deal “will strengthen the positions of both companies.”

The acquisition took effect as of yesterday, for an undisclosed sum.

RS Aqua has more than 40 years’ experience of supplying ocean technology sensors and systems across a variety of sectors and is a leader in its field. The company, the UK’s largest provider of ocean sciences technology, is based in Portsmouth, on the south coast of England.

RS Aqua will continue to operate as an autonomous business within General Oceans, the statement said.

Atle Lohrmann (L) & Martin Stemp

Martin Stemp, Managing Director of RS Aqua said: “I’m delighted that RS Aqua has joined the General Oceans group. We share a passion and commitment to ocean technology innovation and I’m excited for this next crucial stage of RS Aqua’s growth.”

Atle Lohrmann, President of General Oceans, commented: “RS Aqua are an important acquisition for General Oceans and we couldn’t be happier they are joining the group. We believe RS Aqua will play a significant role in strengthening the position of General Oceans within the UK market, and vice versa. There are significant opportunities for collaboration and partnerships for RS Aqua within the group: something that is fundamental to General Oceans.”

General Oceans has successfully completed a number of recent acquisitions in the underwater technology market including Tritech International Ltd in 2022 and Klein Marine Systems in 2023. General Oceans reported revenues of GBP 62 million in 2023, an increase of 28 per cent compared to 2022, and now consists of six operating companies including RS Aqua. General Oceans employs more than 300 people based in Europe, UK, US and Australia.

Its brands include Nortek (Norway), Tritech (UK), Reach Robotics (Australia), Strategic Robotics Systems (USA), Klein Marine Systems (USA) and RS Aqua (UK).