Unique Group has acquired Oceanwide Safety at Sea in a deal that joins two companies in the diving industry.

Oceanwide provides design, construction and maintenance of self-propelled hyperbaric lifeboats.

Founded in 2002, the company will be wholly owned by Unique Group but will continue to be managed by its founders, Rob Bunders and Klaas Kapteijn, with the current workforce being retained, Unique Group informed.

Oceanwide will use Unique Group’s capital to invest in research, development and expansion in different regions. This is Unique Group’s first acquisition since it announced an ambitious growth plan earlier this year, and the acquisition of a Rotterdam office will open up access to new clients across the Antwerp, Hamburg and Bremen seaports, the company said.

Harry Gandhi, founder and CEO of Unique Group said: “As a customer of Oceanwide’s for many years, we are well aware of the quality of its products. No other company can match Oceanwide’s position in the market.

“This acquisition brings a true global market leader into the Unique Group and provides Oceanwide with the platform to extend its capabilities internationally and pursue a number of new and exciting growth opportunities.

“Unique Group has a reputation for expertise in the offshore diving sector and this acquisition can only enhance that.”

Rob Bunders, joint founder of Oceanwide S.a.S said: “This transaction gives Oceanwide a partner to take our business to the next level.

“As well as bringing operational and financial benefits, we can also invest in innovation with a specific focus on new materials and new technology for the next generation of our product.

“Our customers will continue to receive a quality service, but with presence in new locations, we can be even more responsive and faster to market.”