Champlain Cable Umbilicals International Acquisition Overview
Champlain Cable has completed the Champlain Cable Umbilicals International acquisition, adding Umbilicals International (UI) to its group. UI designs and manufactures complex cable and umbilical products for dynamic, harsh environments at its two U.S. plants in Stafford and Channelview, Texas.
Previously part of Scotland-based Seanamic Group, UI will continue operating from its existing facilities. The business will keep the Umbilicals International name and function as a standalone unit under General Manager Colin Zak, ensuring continuity for customers and partners.
Strategic Benefits of the Champlain Cable Umbilicals International Acquisition
Champlain Cable, headquartered in Vermont with additional operations in El Paso, Texas, and Benton Harbor, Michigan, gains broader scope and deeper technical capability through this deal. President Bill Reichert noted that adding Umbilicals International strengthens Champlain’s commitment to custom-designed cables for harsh and demanding environments.
With UI in the portfolio, the Champlain Cable Group now has more extensive cable design and manufacturing capacity. Together, they can support a wider range of markets and applications that demand rugged, high-reliability cable and umbilical solutions.
Thorough Due Diligence in Unusual Conditions
Reichert explained that the team carried out full due diligence, even though current conditions made the process different from past transactions. Champlain’s El Paso operations manager visited UI’s Stafford and Channelview facilities to review equipment, processes, and overall fit.
This hands-on approach helped confirm that UI’s operations aligned with Champlain’s standards and long-term strategy. As a result, the acquisition not only adds capacity but also complements Champlain Cable’s existing culture and capabilities.
A Relationship-Driven Deal Process
Reichert also credited Marty Kenner of Commission Brokers for introducing Umbilicals International as an acquisition opportunity. Kenner understood Champlain’s interest in specific types of companies and recognized that UI matched those criteria.
That introduction led to productive discussions with The Seanamic Group, UI’s former owner. According to Reichert, the transaction moved smoothly and efficiently thanks to a cooperative, team-based approach from everyone involved.
