GORINCHEM, WILLEMSTAD - Damen Shipyards went into the red last year for the first time in fifteen years. The shipbuilder from Gorinchem suffers from a disappointing demand, especially in the tugboat sector. Damen also suffered operational losses from recently acquired sites, in the Botlek in Rotterdam, in Curaçao and in Romania.

The company fell 17 million euros below the mark. According to CEO Réne Berkvens, it was difficult to win new orders last year, partly because there seemed to be a surplus of ships in some areas.

Competition

In the tugboat sector, an important market for Damen, strong competition also put pressure on prices.

The company also sees hopeful signs in various markets. For example, Damen is positive about the market for cruise and inland vessels and the renewable energy sector at sea.

Damen Shipyards also has branches in Schiedam, Pernis and the Botlek.