The Norwegian LR2 owner and operator SKS is opening up its pool to attract third-party LR2 tankers by leveraging Signal’s technological pool infrastructure and data-driven chartering tools. The new setup, named “SKS LR2 Pool – powered by Signal”, has been launched with SKS’ five LR2 spot vessels, co-owned with funds managed by Hayfin Capital, with the goal to attract additional tonnage.

SKS will be the commercial manager, carrying out chartering, operations and post-fixture. Signal will provide the pool infrastructure, the technological tools and capabilities, acknowledging the increasing importance of technology in the shipping industry. The partnership will enable the SKS LR2 Pool to further improve its leading performance while expanding the LR2 fleet. Additionally, it will demonstrate the same level of flexibility, fairness and technology edge already offered by the Signal Aframax and MR Pools.

Geir Mjelde, CEO of Kristian Gerhard Jebsen Skipsrederi AS, owner of the SKS LR2 Pool, commented: “SKS has been a leading player in the LR2 tanker segment for many years. Signal Maritime Services has developed state of the art software for pool management. Together, we will bring a unique offering to owners and operators of LR2 tankers with unrivalled performance and transparency.”

Panos Dimitracopoulos, CEO of Signal Maritime Services, added: “We are delighted to support SKS in their journey to become a leading pool in the LR2 tanker segment. We very much look forward to seeing our technological capital, developed and tested in our pools over the years, being exported beyond Signal and supporting established, well-respected commercial operators.”