The Network of the Future: Maersk updates on the UK port of call
COPENHAGEN : Last month, Maersk reached out with an update on the Gemini Cooperation and the Network of the Future to confirm that they expect to phase in the Cape of Good Hope network for the commencement of the cooperation on 1 February 2025. As a part of developing their network for the Gemini Cooperation, which will be launched in February next year, Maersk have alongside Hapag-Lloyd reviewed all ports and terminals in our current networks.
During this optimisation process and thei review of the Asia – Europe services, they have concluded that London Gateway is the most optimal port to serve our customers importing/exporting cargo to/from the UK. This strategic decision comes as part of the ambition to reduce network complexity with mostly single operator loops and fewer port calls per service, and is aimed at enhancing reliability, reach, and speed for their customers. Due to this change, Felixstowe will not be a part of Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd’s shared Gemini network.
The change from the existing network to the Network of the Future will take place from February 2025 as part of the phasing out of the current 2M cooperation and phasing in the new network of the Gemini cooperation. As their solutions and products are scoped to the customer demand, Maersk expect to be able to share further details of this plan over the next couple of weeks. Our Intermodal and additional logistics and services they currently provide will continue to deliver integrated solutions to the current and future customers complementing the new ocean network.
This change will affect the Asia – Europe trades under the scope of the Gemini cooperation. The previously announced Middle East – Europe (London Gateway) and Trans-Atlantic (Southampton) Gemini services remain unchanged. The rest of their own operated services outside the scope of the Gemini Cooperation also remain unchanged. The feeder and outport coverage will be confirmed over the upcoming weeks and communicated accordingly with customers.