Chouest acquires Norwegian subsea design firm

The Chouest Group, Cut off, La., has acquired Kystdesign, a Aksdal, Norway-based manufacturer of remotely operated vehicle (ROV) systems. The move reinforces Chouest’s commitment to innovation and excellence in underwater robotics, further solidifying its position as a global leader in subsea technology, according to a statement announcing the acquisition.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kystdesign and its talented team into the Chouest family,” Dino Chouest said in the prepared statement. “By joining forces, we will continue delivering cutting-edge ROV systems and advancing the evolution of next-generation underwater robotics.”

The first integrated ROV system under this partnership is already in development, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both companies.

“Kystdesign has always been dedicated to engineering high-quality, reliable subsea solutions. Becoming part of the Chouest Group — an industry leader in offshore and subsea operations — provides us with the resources, expertise, and global network to accelerate innovation and better serve our clients worldwide,” said Tore Nedland, CEO of Kystdesign, “We are excited about the future and the groundbreaking advancements we will achieve together.”

This acquisition strengthens Chouest’s subsea capabilities, ensuringcontinued support for Kystdesign’s existing clients while enhancing in-house solutions for C-Innovation and ROVOP — key players within the Chouest portfolio, the statement said.

With this integration, Kystdesign joins Chouest’s global workforce approaching 20,000 employees. The collaboration is expected to drive significant advancements in subsea technology, unlocking new possibilities in deepwater operations and design.

“It is the right time to hand over Kystdesign to a new owner. The Chouest Group possesses the knowledge, strength and ambitions necessary to guide the company's future growth. We welcome the Chouest Group to the Haugaland offshore cluster and extend our best wishes to the entire team,” said Sven Stakkestad, chairman of the board of Kystdesign.

Kystdesign has grown in recent years – including doubling its workforce, projected 2024 turnover approaching NOK 500 million, and a record-high order backlog.

“This success would not be achievable without our strong team of employees, our loyal customers, and the solid foundation established by founder Erik Kold Bakkevig, who led Kystdesign until his passing in 2022,” Stakkestad said.