The German propulsion expert Schottel is further expanding its international network with the opening of a new subsidiary in the United Kingdom. With this strategic move, the company is strengthening its market presence in the UK and Ireland and laying the foundation for closer collaboration with local costumers.

Schottel UK will primarily focus on newbuild and retrofit sales. The aim is to intensify on-site costumer support through greater proximity, ensuring direct and tailored assistance for designers, builders, and owners throughout the entire specification and procurement process. 

MEETING THE DEMAND OF THE UK MARKET
“The UK market is offering significant growth potential, particularly in the segments of offshore vessels, dredgers, ferries, tugs and naval vessels,” explains Roland Schwandt, Deputy CEO of Schottel. “As the industry increasingly seeks innovative technologies to support the transition to climate-neutral shipping, demand is rising for hybrid and electric propulsion systems as well as tailored retrofit solutions for fleet modernization.”

With its comprehensive portfolio of sustainable, efficient, and high-performance propulsion systems, Schottel is ideally positioned to meet this growing demand and contribute to the successful development of the UK maritime sector.

JORDAN SOLTYS REMAINS POINT OF CONTACT 
Sebastian Sachs has been appointed Managing Director of Schottel UK. He joined Schottel GmbH in 2016 and has since taken on various management positions. Since 1 April 2024, Sebastian Sachs has held the position of Managing Director at Schottel Nederland, which he will retain alongside his new responsibilities.

He is supported by Sales Manager Jordan Soltys, who remains the primary point of contact for customers. A qualified naval architect and marine engineer, he worked for many years as a shipbroker before joining the company in June 2024.

“STATEMENT OF OUR LONG-TERM COMMITMENT”
“This strategic step is aimed at increasing proximity to our customers, strengthen consulting and support in both newbuild and retrofit projects, and unlock further potential in this dynamic market,” emphasizes Sebastian Sachs. Jordan Soltys adds: “Schottel UK is far more than just a commercial location – it is a clear statement of our long-term commitment. Our goal is to build trusted, lasting partnerships within the UK maritime sector and to actively contribute to shaping its future.”

While Schottel UK will mainly focus on newbuild and retrofit projects, aftersales support will continue to be delivered by the long-standing partner Stone Marine Services, located near Edinburgh. “By working closely with the experienced team of Stone Marine Services, we can ensure UK customers receive high-quality local support for service, spare parts and repair – all backed by deep engineering expertise and a longstanding reputation in the UK marine industry,” summarizes Jordan Soltys.

 About Schottel

• The Schottel Group, with its headquarters in Spay/Rhine, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of steerable propulsion systems for ships and offshore applications.
• Founded in 1921, the company has been developing and manufacturing azimuth propulsion and complete propulsion systems with power ratings of up to 30 MW for vessels of all sizes and types for 75 years
• Around 100 sales and service locations worldwide ensure customer proximity.