MARINE fuel supplier Peninsula has spun off its shipping operation into a separate entity named Hercules Tanker Management (HTM), according to Peninsula press release said, Reuters reports.

Deciding to expand into the tanker freight sector, Hercules will take over Peninsula's vessel assets as shipowner, trading its vessels in tanker freight markets as well as continuing to service privately owned Peninsula's cargo and supply operations.

"Now, with a proper structure, equity assets, and a head of shipping, Hercules can handle chartering for both Peninsula and the broader market. Currently, only 10 to 15 per cent of Hercules' operations are for Peninsula," said CEO John Bassadone.

HTM's fleet consists of 44 vessels, including deep sea tankers that were not previously part of the Peninsula fleet, with the new company planning expansion into transportation of fuel oil, refinery feedstocks and gasoil cargoes.

"We are proactively looking to grow the fleet and are already in commercial discussions to do just that," said Mr Bassadone.

https://www.shippingazette.com/news?news_id=9240900000773