Moore Kingston Smith advises R.S Aqua Limited on its sale to ocean technology group, General Oceans AS
R.S Aqua Limited, established over 40 years ago in Portsmouth, is a leading provider of marine technology solutions, manufacturer of integrated ocean systems and developer of innovative AI technologies. After an initial MBO in 2014, Martin Stemp, Managing Director, had tripled the size of the business and was ready for growth to be accelerated by a strategic partner.
Having received a growth investment from Ferd, a Scandinavian family office, in 2023, London-headquartered General Oceans is focused on continuing its upward trajectory. This acquisition aligns with General Oceans’ strategic expansion, enhancing its capabilities and research initiatives.
R.S Aqua is renowned for its innovative marine technology and equipment and has been a pivotal player in the industry, providing cutting-edge solutions to a global clientele. General Oceans, a powerhouse in the marine sector saw R.S Aqua as the perfect fit to bolster its portfolio and drive future growth.
The Moore Kingston Smith Corporate Finance team of John Cowie, Nathalie Strauss and Rohan Nijjar provided guidance throughout the whole process while Thomas Acland and Sam Talbot from the Moore Kingston Smith M&A tax team provided tax support ensuring a fully integrated approach.
Martin Stemp, R.S Aqua Limited Managing Director said: “John Cowie helped me buy RS Aqua in a management buyout from its founders in 2014 and we’ve kept in touch ever since. I needed someone who really understood RS Aqua when I began looking for a partner to take the business to the next level and he and Moore Kingston Smith were the right choice to advise me. General Oceans is the perfect fit.
Moore Kington Smith provided both corporate finance and tax advice and were there whenever I needed them, negotiating and managing the process tirelessly from start to finish – it was a proper team effort and they helped make a demanding process much easier. I’m excited about working with General Oceans over the coming years to build on what we’ve already achieved in the last 10 years.”
John Cowie, Moore Kingston Smith Partner said: “I’ve known Martin for a long time and it’s fantastic to see that what he’s achieved since he took the reins has been recognised by General Oceans, a leading global player in the marine sector. This is a transformational moment for RS Aqua and an exciting step for Martin and his team. We’re delighted to have been able to help bring these businesses together.”
