James Fisher and Sons plc the leading marine service company, announced the acquisition of the privately owned UK based Buchan Technical Services Limited (Buchan) on the 23^rd May for £4,900,000 cash.  The acquisition has been funded from existing group resources.

Buchan is a market leader in the design and supply of centrifugal pumps, hydraulic power packs and umbilical cords and reels, to the oil & gas majors, pipeline commissioning and testing companies and the well servicing, well testing and environmental companies, including the provision of operational manpower.

The acquisition will enable James Fisher Offshore Limited, in Aberdeen, and Scan Tech AS, in Stavanger, to supply a wider range of sale and rental equipment to the offshore industry.  Buchan will form part of James Fisher Offshore and will move its activities to James Fisher's site at Oldmeldrum, outside Aberdeen, once additional extended premises have been completed in 2008.

Buchan's founder Andy Buchan will remain with the Group and take up the position of Director for James Fisher Offshore.

Tim Harris, Chairman of James Fisher, said:

"Buchan represents the latest step in the expansion of marine support services which, in 2006, contributed 67% of group profits. It complements our existing products and services and enjoys a strong position in specialist niche markets."

Andy Buchan, Managing Director of Buchan said:

"Fisher Offshore is a local company and provides an excellent fit with Buchan enjoying a similar approach and customers in the offshore market. I will be staying with and look forward to developing the business within James Fisher Offshore."

Buchan's head office is in Inverurie near Aberdeen. It employs 8 people.