By the start of the new millennium, Damen has grown to become the biggest shipyard in the Netherlands and is a strong international player. But there's one thing Damen hasn't managed yet: building naval ships.

It's a market that requires a special approach: references and experience are crucial. In the 1980s, Kommer tried to take over De Schelde, a shipyard with considerable stature, specialising in naval vessels and deeply rooted in the city of Vlissingen. But his offer was turned down.

At the end of the 1990s, this impressive company is up for sale again. But there's a good reason why the government - who has a large stake in it - wants to get rid of it: De Schelde is in financial trouble. And there appears to be a considerable cultural difference between this traditional company and the ‘cowboys’ of Damen. Can Damen make them an offer they can't refuse?

This episode covers the period between 1999 and 2006. Want to know more about this podcast? Check out podcast.damen.com

‘On Course’ is a Damen Shipyards podcast and is produced by audio agency Airborne.