Mariner Shipping Services has acquired Arrow Express, a prominent transportation company specialising primarily in versatile courier services, customs brokerage, logistics, warehousing and transshipment together with air freight and sea freight services. The acquisition comes hot on the heels of the company’s recent acquisition of Tubeline Limited, just under two years ago.

“Mariner Shipping is expanding steadily and has become a 360 degree service partner in logistics, transportation and marine related activities,” the company said.

To date, Mariner Shipping has branched out as specialists in ship and yacht agency work, whilst also serving as marine services providers, freight forwarders and customs brokers. The company also has an edge on project cargo, time critical solutions and marine cargo insurance.

The acquisition of Arrow Express will provide Mariner Shipping with a wider-ranging portfolio encompassing an extensive, all-inclusive transportation platform, with particular emphasis on complete end-to-end services for customers and 3PL solutions. The acquisition will allow Mariner Shipping to enhance its domestic courier services and boost its yacht agency and yacht concierge operations.

Nicholas Zammit, former Managing Director of Arrow Express, is set to take on the role of Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Mariner Shipping, injecting his “shipping expertise and professional knowledge across the board.”

“Mariner’s acquisition of Arrow Express is a natural fit, driven by the strong synergies between our two companies. This strategic integration is set to further bolster Mariner Group’s service offerings and client base, creating a one-stop solution for transportation and logistics services. I’m thrilled to step into the role of COO at Mariner Shipping, to continue expanding and refining an unmatched suite of services for our valued local and international customers and partners,” Mr Zammit said.

On the other hand, Karl Naudi, Mariner Shipping’s Managing Director commented that as a company, they are looking forward to this new venture. “Together we have every intention of providing our valued customers with a holistic service which will give them peace of mind. Transport is the backbone of most local businesses, and our plan is to offer consistent reliability and efficiency”. 

Mariner Shipping is also the partner for both Malta and Libya of Unifeeder Group, an independent company within the DP World Group.

The company explains that it offers first-class feeder services with the most comprehensive network. Mariner Shipping also represents Peters and May, “one of the world’s leading logistics companies in yacht transport.” 

It is also a partner of Time Matters which forms part of Lufthansa Cargo as well as Delavag, another Lufthansa subsidiary which specialises in marine cargo insurance.  

Mariner Shipping is the shipping and logistics arm of Hili Company which maintains a strategic focus on the maritime and logistics industries. “In parallel, it has built a solid and prestigious portfolio of businesses in real estate and renewable energy. The group operates in its heritage ports and logistics businesses through its Mariner brand,” the shipping company stated. 

Furthermore, Edward Hili, Hili Company CEO expressed that the company is delighted to be taking this “important step in the growth and evolution of Mariner Shipping.”

“Our shipping business has built up steadily and the acquisition of Arrow Express represents a significant moment as it allows us to enhance our service portfolio and expand our capacities by having Arrow’s experienced personnel join us. We are very pleased to welcome Nikki and his team on board,” Mr Hili added.

The Group continues to seek new opportunities for growth across its various sectors.