It is hoped that the acquisition will enable the two firms to combine expertise and target the Oil & Gas and Renewables sectors with turnkey solutions helping companies to improve their HSE compliance for personnel safety and security.

Aberdeenshire-based Exploration and Production Information Company Ltd (EPIC) are recognized specialists in the supply and support of personnel tracking, offshore logistics, POB management, e-mustering and evacuation systems worldwide. EPIC export over 80% and provide turnkey solutions for companies operating in Australia, Africa, Europe, North and South America.

With over 100 projects delivered globally, 25000 offshore oil industry personnel tracked daily and over 30 million bridge/gangway movements recorded annually, EPIC have a proven track record and reputation as a reliable service provider.

MarineGuard founder and CEO Richard Webb, said: “Having established ourselves as the leading provider of security systems on the world’s largest private superyachts we were looking for exciting new markets that we felt could benefit from the expertise we hold.

“Having been introduced to Ian and the work they do at EPIC it was remarkable to see the core product similarities despite the differences in end application, the more we talked the more evident it became that the two businesses could benefit one another.

“We are very excited for the next phase for both companies as we pool resources and industry knowledge to drive new business opportunities globally”

Ian Traquair, EPIC founding managing director, added: “After 46 years in the offshore industry, it has been a privilege to work with so many talented personnel dedicated to looking after offshore personnel who work in difficult and many times, hostile offshore environments. The combined talents and experience of EPIC and MarineGuard staff will provide a solid base for growth and development meeting current and future innovative challenges.

“Both companies are dynamic and innovative, and joining forces will diversify our combined customer base, provide technological and financial advantages to our customers as well as open up new career paths for staff, and boost our financial resilience as the global economy transitions.”

The transaction completed on July 5th and price and terms are undisclosed. EPIC was advised by CapEQ corporate finance (Mark Sapsford) and law firm Vialex (Andy Lowe, Scott Paterson).

MarineGuard was advised by Prism Corporate Broking (Peter Watson), law firm BDB Pitmans (Duncan Walker, Ross Fletcher) and consultants RSM UK (Gregory Moreton, Jack Williams, Michelle Harris, Omar Kader).