Erma First, the maritime-focused environmental engineering group, has acquired a controlling interest in Maritime Efficiency Through Intelligent Systems (METIS) Cybertechnology, an innovative Greek company specialising in artificial intelligence and internet of things (IoT)
Erma First has taken a step into the cyber sphere by acquiring 2016 start-up METIS. The innovative METIS platform uses cloud-based virtual personal assistants to provide in-time information, diagnosis and prediction through a conversational user interface focused on shipping company requirements. METIS is said to have attracted an exceptional client list of prominent international shipowners and managers. The team will remain the same as before.
METIS’ expertise is seen as complimentary, offering an extensive added value to customers of Erma First, a spin-off from the long-established Environmental Protection Engineering SA. Erma First is an engineering and manufacturing company best-known in the shipping industry for its successful ballast water treatment system (BWTS) that was the first of its kind to be type-approved by the US Coast Guard.
The aim of the collaboration is to blend and lever METIS technology and expertise with the environmental protection knowledge, an international sales and service network and an established client base of ERMA First.
With technology playing an increasingly critical role in every aspect of the industry, both companies recognise the need to accelerate the development of green digital solutions to ensure they remain in the competitive vanguard.
Erma First’s managing director Konstantinos Stampedakis said “We are extremely excited to be joining forces with METIS. We have been admirers of the company since its inception.”
“Our vision for METIS is to allow its team to continue doing what it does so well and to strengthen the company’s ability to provide solutions for smarter, safer, greener and more efficient solutions for the maritime industry. We also expect adding METIS’s expertise will further enhance Erma First’s existing after-sales capabilities, enabling us to serve Erma First’s BWTS FIT client vessels in real-time”.
“Together, we will produce new products and services, extending the coverage of the ship’s operation towards a more sustainable future. METIS already offers a unique product but has unlimited capabilities that go well beyond performance monitoring. Our interest in METIS definitely has an eye on the future,” said Environmental Protection Engineering’s executive vice president Eleni Polychronopoulou.
On behalf of METIS, Mike Konstantinidis commented “We are delighted to receive the endorsement of Erma First and become a valuable member of the company. Shipping is on the brink of a new era and, as exciting possibilities arise, we now have a stronger base to explore them together.
METIS is one of the products and services nominated for the Tanker Shipping & Trade Technical Innovation Award. Place your vote for nominees here. The Awards are an integral part of the 2019 Tanker Shipping & Trade Conference, Awards, & Exhibition. Book your place at this year’s event to be held in London on 26-27 November 2019.
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