Damen optimistic about Mangalia’s future

Subjects discussed included preserving the naval industry market, which is of strategic interest to Romania and working together to allow the Romanian shipbuilding industry to develop to its full potential.

“The Mangalia site is very important for the Damen group because it allows them to diversify their range of products, especially with regard to the large-scale shipbuilding with high added value such as cruise ships,” said Mr Andruşcă.

“The most important information I received from Mr Damen is about the future of the workforce on the site,” he said, referring to Damen’s future intentions to expand the workforce at the yard to a minimum of 3,000 employees.

Expanding workforce

Following Damen Shipyards Group’s acquisition of the shares of Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering in Daewoo Mangalia Heavy Industries in July, Damen has been responsible for the operational management of the yard, with both parties acting as joint venture partners.

Following the meeting, Kommer Damen commented: “Considering the yard’s current condition, we face a challenging period.”

“However, with the continuous full support of the Romanian Government and the commercial opportunities matching our strategic vision, we are confident that the financial health of the yard can be restored and levels of employment increased.”