PASSER’s services: from cable handling to equipment sales

Most companies within our network know PASSER from PASSER Cable Logistics: the branch based in Alkmaar that rents out equipment for cable handling. But the PASSER Group is much more than that. For nearly two years, the Marine Equipment Solutions (MES) branch has been in full development. At the office in Alkmaar, Taco Boorsma has been working on expanding the services of this branch since last December. He tells us about this with great enthusiasm.

Four pillars, one integrated approach

“The PASSER Group, with its headquarters in Sandefjord, Norway, consists of four pillars,” says Taco. “In Alkmaar is PASSER Cable Logistics (formerly known as PASSER Lars), specializing in the rental of cable handling equipment for the transport and storage of cables. In Norway, the equipment is designed at PASSER Cable Factory Solutions (CFS). Everything made of steel is produced at PASSER SIDC in Lithuania. PASSER SIDC also includes an extensive shipbuilding department. In collaboration with Royal Bodewes, ships are built at the shipyard in Foxhol. PASSER SIDC is also currently building a new offshore vessel at the former De Hoop Shipyards site in Lobith.”

The newest branch is PASSER Marine Equipment Solutions (MES). From Alkmaar, Taco, together with colleagues in Norway, is working on the further expansion of MES. “With MES, we can also sell everything that PASSER rents out. Think, for example, of carousels, tensioners, loading towers, and cable guidance systems, such as chutes and tracks.” The role of Sales Manager is certainly not unfamiliar to Taco. He brings years of experience as a Sales Manager in the maritime industry, including at fellow AYOP member Damen Shiprepair.

Complete support from A to Z

PASSER is certainly not the only party offering this type of equipment. What distinguishes MES from other providers? “There is a lot of competition, also in the Netherlands,” says Taco. “But because the PASSER Group has all disciplines in-house, we can offer the entire process. From the production of a cable, its spooling, storage, transport (for example from barge to ship), to assistance with carousel operations on the ship that places the cable on the seabed. The PASSER Group engineers and builds all the equipment needed to ultimately get the cable to the seabed. That extensive range of services makes us unique.”

This integrated approach also means that customers do not need to approach PASSER MES with a fully developed idea. “You don’t need an extensive plan or design to request something from us. You could, so to speak, jot down a question on the back of a beer coaster, and we’ll pick it up. Within the group, we have all the knowledge and experience in-house and possess a broad network. We can draw, engineer, and produce it. That allows us to truly think along with the customer.”

Cross-selling within a broad customer portfolio

The PASSER Group’s client base is broad, explains Taco: “We talk to cable manufacturers, installers, and wind farm owners. It depends on who approaches us and with what question how the conversation unfolds and which services—and therefore which branches of the group—we deploy. Perhaps a customer initially comes for the transport or storage of a cable. During that same conversation, it might turn out that there is a need for, for example, a cable chute. Then we can switch gears immediately from MES.” Parties can also turn to PASSER MES for shipbuilding projects: “The Netherlands has a strong maritime sector, with internationally renowned shipyards. On a project basis, we act as an intermediary between PASSER SIDC in Lithuania and the Dutch shipbuilding market. I hope to add something to this by offering support in the field of equipment from Alkmaar. Think of offering A-frames or boat landings, or a logistical challenge. We would like to broaden our scope in the maritime sector.”

Networking and collaboration

Taco envisions an active role for himself within the AYOP network. “I look forward to the networking events and trade fairs where AYOP is present. In recent years, PASSER has already been at the Offshore Energy trade fair in Amsterdam, but I was not yet employed there at the time. I look forward to further strengthening my personal network as well as the PASSER network in the Netherlands. So please do get in touch. We are happy to brainstorm with you, from initial idea to complete solution.”

• Want to know more about the PASSER Group? View the member profile. Want to get in touch with Taco Boorsma? You can do so via LinkedIn.