Kpler completes acquisition of satellite vessel tracking firm Spire Maritime

Maritime data analytics firm Kpler has finalised an acquisition, that began in November 2024, of satellite data provider Spire Maritime.

“The addition of this high-quality data will unlock greater value for our customers and partners by providing increasingly comprehensive and timely insights into global trade flows. It’s about helping them navigate complexity, uncover opportunities, and make better decisions every day," said Kpler chief executive Mark Cunningham.
Kpler said it is "working closely with the relevant regulatory authorities and in particular with the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in light of their review of the transaction".

"In the meantime, both businesses will continue to operate independently until the CMA’s review is complete," the company said.

15 November

Maritime data analytics firm Kpler has acquired Spire Maritime, a provider of satellite-powered data for real-time global vessel tracking. This acquisition is aimed at enhancing Kpler’s maritime coverage, expanding its data reach, by integrating Spire Maritime’s technology and AIS feed to deliver improved insights into global vessel movements and shipping logistics.

Kpler chief executive Mark Cunningham said the Spire Maritime acquisition will “materially improve our satellite AIS offering, which together with our comprehensive terrestrial AIS network, significantly enhances real-time visibility and analytics for the maritime and commodity markets.”

Traders, ship brokers and charterers are among Kpler’s major clients.

“This will provide our clients with a clearer view of developments across maritime and commodity markets, to support better decision-making in a globally interconnected economy,” Mr Cunningham said.

Kpler executive chairman François Cazor highlighted the financial and strategic benefits, stating “We remain focused on reaching US$1Bn of ARR in the coming years, which will involve us expanding into new products and verticals, as well as pursuing strategic mergers and acquisitions.”

Spire Global chief executive Peter Platzer said, “This move further focuses Spire Global on our core mission: helping humanity tackle climate change and global security challenges – and now, we are even better equipped with the resources, technology and experience to serve our customers, whether through our advanced data solutions or empowering them with our sophisticated space services offering.”

The transaction is expected to close by Q1 2025, subject to satisfying customary closing conditions.