The terms of the offer are binding on Subsea 7 until 1 July 2017. During this period the Works Council representing the employees of Seaway Heavy Lifting in the Netherlands will be consulted in compliance with Dutch law.
Jean Cahuzac, CEO, said: “Subsea 7’s strong market position in offshore energy services is complemented by Seaway Heavy Lifting’s expertise in three areas of offshore activity: renewables, heavy lifting operations and decommissioning of oil and gas assets.
We believe that this acquisition will allow us to strengthen Subsea 7’s position in businesses where we expect increased activity and opportunities for long term growth.
Seaway Heavy Lifting is a specialist offshore contractor and operates two world-class heavy lift vessels. It employs approximately 550 employees and is headquartered in the Netherlands.
Seaway Heavy Lifting is a joint venture in which Subsea 7 currently holds a 50% interest. If the offer to acquire the remaining 50% is accepted, Seaway Heavy Lifting would become a wholly owned subsidiary of Subsea 7.
Subsea 7 is offering an initial consideration of USD 279 million on completion and deferred consideration of up to USD 40 million to be paid by the end of the first quarter 2021 on condition that certain performance targets are met. The considerations will be funded from Subsea 7’s existing cash resources.
As at 31 December 2015 Seaway Heavy Lifting had net assets of USD 413 million, including net debt of USD 4 million. Selected financial information for Seaway Heavy Lifting was included on pages 67 and 68 of Subsea 7’s 2015 Annual Report and Consolidated Financial Statements, which is available to download here.