West of Shetland and other UK North Sea work has boosted profits at energy logistics company Peterson Offshore Group.
Netherlands-based Peterson said yesterday operating profits from its UK businesses, including Aberdeen-based subsidiaries Peterson UK and 80:20 Procurement Services, grew by 9% last year, to £8.3million.
The figure is more than half the group’s total operating profits of nearly £16million, an increase of 33% on the previous year.
North Sea revenue increased by £12million to deliver a £288million contribution to a group-wide figure of £550million.
Peterson said significant growth was seen at its offshore supply bases in Shetland, where it delivered logistics support for big oil and gas projects west of the islands.
The group also said its operating companies invested a further £3.8million in buildings, plant and equipment during 2013, including on warehousing and offices in Aberdeen.
Nearly 82,000 square feet of warehouse space and two additional berths at Aberdeen harbour were added to support growth in Peterson’s supply base management services.
New project teams were also established to support logistics consultancy activities following contract wins in the Middle East and India.
In addition, the group invested in the development of new software in response to growing demand for “smart solutions and innovation” from its customers.
Peterson said 120 new UK jobs were created, mostly in Aberdeen and Lerwick, to accommodate growth in demand for its core services.
The group also revealed its long-term debt was cut to £5.8million, from £9.6million previously.
Chief executive Erwin Kooy said: “We have experienced positive growth in all areas of our business, and in particular for our North Sea operations.
“We think in generations, with our continued success testament to the commitment of our team and their focus on our vision and plans for future growth.”
Peterson operates in more than 60 countries and in many different industries.
It employs more than 460 people in the UK, including nearly 200 in Aberdeen and 57 in Shetland.
The rest of the UK workforce is spread between sites in Edzell, Great Yarmouth and Heysham.