Ocean Group announces changes to its shareholding structure to accelerate growth

Ocean Group, a leader in the maritime industry in Québec and Canada, announces a significant change in its shareholding structure, marking a major milestone in its development. The transition is being carried out with the continued involvement of Mr. Gordon Bain, the company's founder, and through a management buyout process led by Mr. Jacques Tanguay, the company's President and Chief Executive Officer. This change will allow Ocean Group to welcome new strategic partners while strengthening its Quebec and Canadian identity.

Mr. Gordon Bain and the senior management retain control of the company, ensuring committed and entrepreneurial leadership. La Caisse (formerly CDPQ), a long-standing partner of Ocean, is also reinvesting in the company, while the Government of Québec and Investissement Québec are acquiring equity interests by investing $145 million, replacing the Fonds de solidarité FTQ. Together, La Caisse and Investissement Québec will act as equal shareholders.

Thanks to the participation of these two leading institutional investors, Ocean Group remains a wholly Québec-owned company headquartered in Québec City. La Caisse's commitment since 2014 and Investissement Québec's acquisition of a stake in the company allow Ocean Group to maintain its local presence and promote sustainable growth. This transaction solidifies Ocean Group's central importance in the Canadian maritime ecosystem and demonstrates its ability to surround itself with credible, well-established partners.

Ocean Group is a recognized leader in harbour towing, marine works, and naval construction, operating mainly in Québec, as well as in Ontario, British Columbia, and Jamaica. The company employs 1,100 people, nearly 1,000 of whom are based in Québec.

This change in shareholding will invigorate Ocean Group's growth strategy while ensuring its sustainability, responsible governance, and long-term economic benefits for Québec. There will be no impact on jobs, and all positions will be maintained. With a solid financial structure and dedicated partners, Ocean Group is well positioned to grow in Québec and abroad while strengthening its contribution to the maritime economy.

Quotes:

"This management buyout was made possible by Gordon Bain and our two partners. This milestone is the result of rigorous growth planning that began several years ago. We are proud to have strong Québec-based partners to help us write the next chapter in Ocean Group's history. We will do so surrounded by a fabulous team and our hard-earned reputation." - Jacques Tanguay, President and Chief Executive Officer, Ocean Group

"By supporting Ocean Group, our government is ensuring that its headquarters remain here, while promoting the growth of this Québec flagship in both the Canadian and international markets. This consolidates Québec's position in the defence industry, encourages innovation, and strengthens Quebec's supply chain in the maritime sector, a strategic sector of our economy." - Christine Fréchette, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy and Minister responsible for Regional Economic Development

"For over ten years, La Caisse has supported Ocean Group's growth in Québec and internationally. This new investment aligns perfectly with our strategy of creating North American and global champions while generating benefits for Québec. After helping Ocean Group prepare for succession in recent years, we are continuing our commitment by supporting the growth of this leading company in Québec's maritime economy. The company is well positioned to take advantage of the many opportunities offered by this sector." - Kim Thomassin, Executive Vice-President and Head of Québec, La Caisse

"By acquiring a stake in Ocean Group, Investissement Québec is supporting a unique company and a true flagship whose activities generate significant economic benefits for Québec and its regions. This financial intervention by the government corporation aligns perfectly with our mission to preserve Québec's shareholding in the company and enable it to maintain its strategic position in the maritime industry, a key sector of our economy." - Bicha Ngo, President and CEO, Investissement Québec