Leading international marine and engineering consultancy LOC Group has announced a collaboration agreement with marine survey experts Studio Navale Canepa (SNC) of Italy. Together the two organisations are combining expertise and their global networks to offer unrivalled casualty services to the Italian market. SNC specialises in providing Hull & Machinery related casualty surveying services to the Italian insurance and shipping sectors through its in-house team, supported by a network of trusted associates. Joining forces with the LOC world-wide network significantly extends SNC’s reach allowing it to deliver more cost-effective, global services to the Italian community. Meanwhile, LOC will benefit from working alongside a company that is a respected and well-established expert in the Italian shipping and insurance markets. The new partnership will allow LOC to build its market presence in Italy, delivering specialist services to its growing customer base across the region. Andrew Squire, LOC Group Chief Executive said: “This new relationship is uniquely beneficial relationship for all parties involved. SNC benefits from being part of our global network, LOC gains an important foothold in the Italian markets and – more importantly – our combined clients benefit from a greatly enhanced service delivered much more cost effectively.” He continued: “We have known SNC for some years and I am delighted that we have now been able to formalise our relationship with them. Our focus will be on Hull & Machinery casualty work but, in time, there is the possibility of expanding our offer to the Italian market, perhaps with marine warranty surveys, offshore or energy services.” Massimo Canepa, SNC President said: “This collaboration with LOC is the ideal development that allows us to continue providing the Italian shipping and marine insurance community with high quality and effective support, particularly in times of expanding globalisation. I look forward to working with them.”