NAVTOR Eyes Expansion in Singapore
E-navigation specialist NAVTOR said it is continuing to build its business footprint beyond Europe, with the news that the Norwegian firm is expanding its new Singapore office. The base, which opened in December 2014, has given the firm an important foothold in the Southeast Asian market, driving new business with shipowners and managers such as NEOM, SeaTeam, Waruna Shipping, Samudera Shipping, and Sattech International.
NAVTOR launched its ENC service in 2012, followed by its move into Singapore, and then by another office opening in Japan in September 2015.
“We’ve been very encouraged by the impact our products and services have made on the Asian market,” said Tor Svanes, NAVTOR CEO. “In a relatively short space of time our Singapore office, headed by Jennifer Lee, formerly the UKHO’s Account Manager for ADMIRALTY Nautical Products and Services, Asia Pacific, has driven awareness of both the brand and the unique benefits of our technology.
“As a result we’ve decided to expand our workforce in Singapore, with Lawrence Yeow as our first new recruit. Lawrence joins as Area Sales Manager and has extensive experience of providing charts and publications in the region. We believe his expertise will be invaluable for industry players looking for simple, efficient and cost effective ENC distribution solutions.”
Børge Hetland, NAVTOR Sales Director, added, “Our position in Europe is now well-established and we see Singapore as key to our ongoing development. The Asian market is sophisticated and diverse, and our products really chime with shipowners that are open to the potential of e-navigation.
“By demonstrating how we deliver enhanced ship-shore interaction, state-of-the-art route planning and fleet management, and a better use of man-hours on board, we can help regional owners save time and money, while maximizing performance and minimizing fuel use.
“We have the solutions,” Hetland concluded, “and Singapore gives us the base to market them and drive further growth and innovations.”
