GERMANY's MPC Capital Group and Zeaborn Group are to merge their chartering and commercial management to create a fleet of more than 160 container vessels of various sizes. The joint venture will operate under the traditional name Harper Petersen, which Zeaborn is currently using for its shipbroking services. Zeaborn will continue to contribute their activities of Harper Petersen to the joint venture while MPC Capital will add their commercial chartering business of Contchart to Harper Petersen. The new company will manage more than 160 vessels with a combined capacity of approximately 500,000 TEU with sizes ranging from 700-8,500 TEU. More than 20 vessels will be equipped with scrubbers. The new Harper Petersen is employing a team of 38 staff and its headquarters will remain in Hamburg, with offices in Singapore, Shanghai and the Netherlands. Managing director of Harper Petersen, Arne Corleis stated: "Contchart and Harper Petersen have been doing business together already for many years. We know each other well and it's an excellent match. I really look forward to working in this strong team, jointly offering a broader service and a well-diversified fleet." Harper Petersen is set to start operations on November 1, 2019. The closing of the transaction remains subject to antitrust clearance with the relevant cartel authorities. Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is advising Zeaborn on the deal, reports Colchester, UK's Seatrade Maritime News.