Nakashima Partners with Michigan Wheel

Michigan Wheel Marine and Nakashima Propeller Co. Ltd. have announced a new strategic partnership that is designed to combine their respective business strengths and promote cooperation in developing and expanding their global marine propulsion businesses.

Negotiations have been ongoing for several months during which time business operations of both organizations have continued to expand, and it is on the foundation of this strength that the deal was signed. As part of the agreement Nakashima has acquired a 30% stock holding in Michigan Wheel Marine.

It is the latest of several strategic moves that Michigan have made in recent years. This includes the opening of a European facility in the U.K.; a Middle East operation headquartered in Dubai, the acquisition of U.K.-based bearing manufacturer Shearwater Marine Ltd., and the licensing of associated propulsion products for distribution through their global dealer networks.

Nakashima Propeller has provided various products to a range of customers’ interests throughout the world. Nakashima’s higher efficiency, higher performance propeller design makes many applications possible, from fixed pitch propellers for large commercial vessels, to propellers for pleasure boats. For Nakashima, this strategic partnership represents another opportunity to bring their engineering, manufacturing and product development expertise to a greater global market via Michigan’s customers and distribution networks, the company said.

As the relationship develops the companies will participate in mutual advertising, marketing, product development and other business functions.