The two new I-Star bulkers will be delivered from Imabari in Japan in what appears to be a previously unreported deal.

AO owner and managing Alexander Oetker, a member of the family that controls boxship line Hamburg Sud, said Wallem was selected based on its "abilities to successfully manage these ships safely and with great quality."

Wallem has been managing vessels for AO Shipping since 2009 and the current contract brings the number to five.