Marseille-based shipping giant CMA CGM has announced its decision to drop the Containerships brand, a renowned Intra-Europe shortsea specialist, starting from July 1, 2023. This move comes as CMA CGM aims to streamline its operations and consolidate its services under the unified CMA CGM brand. The carrier has already notified its customers of this transition, ensuring a seamless continuation of services under the new branding.
CMA CGM initially acquired Containerships PLC, the shipping division of Finnish holding company Container Finance Oy, in 2018. The strategic acquisition was part of CMA CGM’s broader plan to strengthen its presence in the intra-regional market of North Europe and the Mediterranean.
Since the acquisition, Containerships has experienced significant growth, expanding both organically and through the amalgamation of two previously acquired shortsea carriers. CMA CGM’s acquisition of Germany-based OPDR in 2015 and the UK’s MacAndrews in 2003 paved the way for the consolidation of these entities. In November 2017, MacAndrews and OPDR merged under the MacAndrews umbrella, followed by the subsequent unification of MacAndrews with Containerships in 2019. The Containerships name was retained as the sole intra-European shortsea brand of CMA CGM at that time.
Presently, Containerships operates an impressive fleet of 36 container vessels and two conros, with cargo capacities ranging from 500 to 1,900 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU). The company’s extensive network encompasses key regions such as the UK, Northwest Continent, the Baltic, Spain, Morocco, and even the Canary Islands.
By consolidating its services under the unified CMA CGM brand, the company aims to enhance operational efficiency, optimize customer experience, and capitalize on the established reputation of the CMA CGM name in the shipping industry. This strategic decision signifies CMA CGM’s commitment to a cohesive and integrated approach as it continues to expand its presence in the European shipping market.
Fuente: Alphaliner, CMA CGM
