Wilson AS — M&A Activity 2020

May 25, 2020

Wilson ASA enters into agreement with Arkon Shipping to strengthen European presence

Wilson ASA enters into agreement with Arkon Shipping to strengthen European presence

As part of the necessary consolidation of the European Short Sea shipping

market, Wilson ASA and Arkon Shipping GmbH & Co. KG has signed an agreement

making the combined systems the largest short sea player in Europe.

Wilson will take about 20 dry bulk carriers on a long-term lease from Arkons'

represented coaster fleet, including state of the art Hanse Eco newbuildings

with delivery in 2 years' time. Wilson will be ready to perform all contracts

and client commitments currently performed by Arkon. As an exclusive Commercial

Representative Arkon will become an integrated part of Wilsons chartering system

and handle export fixtures for the whole Wilson fleet in the Mediterranean.

A larger system and market organization will increase efficiency, reduce overall

ballast, improve opex and extend the European shipping network in line with the

expansion strategy of the Wilson Group. This agreement will secure capacity,

strengthen the logistic systems, and provide security for the clients. The

combined logistic systems will also be better prepared to meet new and stricter

environmental requirements from the European industry going forward.

The agreement underpins the common long-term belief in the market despite the

Covid-19 pandemic.

The agreement may be subject to approval for relevant authorities and is

scheduled to be implemented during the second half of 2020 with start-up

earliest September 1, 2020.

Wilson will after the agreement operate a fleet of more than 130 ships of which

92 are owner controlled.

Bergen, 25.05.2020.

Wilson ASA

Arkon Shipping Gmbh & Co. KG

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section

5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act