Parker Towing Company Eyes Expansion With Purchase Of Baton Rouge Firm

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Tuscaloosa-based Parker Towing on Tuesday announced it has purchased Louisiana tank barge operator General Marine Services (GMS).

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The acquisition expands Parker Towing’s current tank barge division, with the company saying it the move is geared toward diversifying and growing from being a traditionally dry cargo carrier.

Parker Towing said in a press release that GMS operates a fleet of liquid tank barges and towboat, primarily serving customers in the refining industry.

Founded nearly a century ago, Parker Towing is one of the largest barge lines in the United States and operates a fleet of towboats and over 400 open and covered hopper barges, in addition to a fleet of 30,000 BBL tank barges.

Parker Towing transports commodities including coal, steel and steel-related products, aggregates, forest products, grain products, cement, asphalt and other petroleum products.

Parker Towing President Tim Parker III praised the reputation built by GMS President and CEO Gene Moore, who has served in the role for nearly seven years

“Gene Moore and GMS have a long-standing reputation of providing high quality service to its customers," Parker said. "By acquiring GMS, Parker Towing will be able to offer a broader array of services to current and future customers.”

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Baton Rouge, GMS specializes in liquid cargo transportation services for oil, gas, and petrochemical industries.

“GMS shares many of the same core values as Parker Towing Company with a focus on providing high quality customer service, and a commitment to safety and sustainability," Moore said. "GMS is excited to partner with Parker Towing and to work with their senior management team."

Parker Towing said the GMS management team will continue in their current roles.

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