"This is a merger between complementary businesses who each lead in their own sector of the market", says Ken Scott, the chief executive of Sparrows Offshore who becomes chief executive officer of the new Energy Cranes International.

"Each brand - Sparrows, American Aero and Titan - commands high customer esteem in its own market", says Scott. "Each will bring its strengths to the new business, and each brand name will continue as the group's flagship in its traditional markets."

Jim Hicks, the president of American Aero who will continue to spearhead the manufacturing brands' development in the US Gulf, also joins the operational board of Energy Cranes International.

"This is a merger in pursuit of growth, not economies," says Hicks, contrasting this with other recent mergers in the offshore industry. "There will be opportunities for all employees to continue in the new business - many in enhanced roles with increased responsibilities and prospects for career development."

Sparrows Offshore Services is the $70 million turnover world market leader in offshore crane management services for the energy industry. American Aero Cranes and Titan Industries are the largest and longest established manufacturers of marine pedestal cranes in the USA, producing ranges of box boom and lattice boom models up to 150 ton capacity.