Shell and MRI

Shell is the main sponsor of the Maritime Research Institute providing a total of £45,000 in a donation spread over three years which started in 2008.

In 2009 the company also made an extra donation of £8,000 as a contribution to repairs when one of the MRI lifeboats was out of service.

The MRI 28 SAR lifeboat suffered a major breakdown affecting one engine and the costly repairs posed a significant operational and funding challenge, particularly due to the prevailing financial climate.

MRI CEO Hamish McDonald said: “Because of the restrictions on credit finance it would have been almost impossible for MRI to secure the monies necessary without the help of Shell. Shell’s immediate offer of help made it possible to get the SAR Lifeboat back in service and we were extremely grateful.”

At the time John Hollowell, Shell’s Aberdeen-based Vice-President for Production said:” We are delighted to be able to assist MRI carry out its vital and often life-saving activities with the help of and for the benefit of the local community. It is fitting that we should be linked in this way as, after all, both organisations – MRI and Shell – are deeply concerned with all aspects of operating safely.”

More Information on Shell

Aberdeen is the HQ for Shell’s UK exploration and production activities with around 6,500 people employed either directly or indirectly on and offshore.

Shell was one of the first companies to develop oil and gas fields in the North Sea.

If you would like to learn more about Shell please visit