Tanker pool operator Signal Maritime is taking the next step in its development, setting up a new venture for MR product carriers alongside its established aframax undertaking.

The Greek company will start marketing the pool in June, Signal chief executive Panos Dimitracopoulos told TradeWinds.

The MR structure is already up and running with three ships, including two from Astra Shipmanagement, a Greek operator set up by members of the wider Martinos family.