Imray and Freytag & Berndt plan joint venture to secure future of nautical charts

Imray and Freytag & Berndt plan joint venture to secure future of nautical charts © Imray

Imray Laurie Norie & Wilson Ltd (Imray), a leading publisher of nautical information for recreational sailors, and Austrian cartographic specialist freytag & berndt (FB) have signed a letter of intent to form a joint venture.

This collaboration will ensure the continued availability and development of Imray's renowned nautical charts and books, maintaining its trusted legacy for sailors worldwide.

The new joint venture, FB Imray Laurie Norie & Wilson GmbH (FB Imray), will be headquartered in Vienna. In addition, Bookharbour (Stanfords) Ltd will continue as the main UK-based distributor of Imray charts and books. Combining Imray's proven maritime expertise with freytag & berndt's extensive cartographic knowledge, will strengthen and expand the Imray portfolio.

The evolved organisation is set to launch in the summer, with further details to be announced in due course. The focus will remain on producing high-quality nautical charts and publications under the established Imray brand, while also developing new products tailored to the needs of sailors and advancing digital navigation solutions.

Lucy Wilson, Managing Director of Imray, commented: "By combining our deep-rooted maritime knowledge with freytag & berndt's cartographic abilities, we are securing the future of Imray's nautical charts and publications while opening the door to new opportunities for development and growth. Our commitment to providing sailors with trusted, high-quality navigation resources remains at the heart of everything we do."

Carl Rauch, Managing Director of freytag & berndt, added: "With this joint venture, we are taking a big step towards becoming a global cartographic publisher. Until now, we have only been involved in predominantly land-based cartography so with this partnership we are literally filling a large blank spot in our maps. By continuing and further developing the Imray portfolio and tapping into digital opportunities, we are creating innovative solutions for navigators."

There will be no interruption in service - charts and books will continue to be available as always, ensuring loyal customers can navigate with confidence. The transition to the new joint venture will be seamless, with the same trusted products and commitment to quality that sailors rely on.

Further updates on the development of this venture will be shared in coming months, including details on product developments, operational plans, and key milestones as the business progresses. Both Imray and freytag & berndt are committed to ensuring a seamless transition and customers can rest assured that their dedication to serving the maritime community remains unchanged.