Tuesday 5 May 2009

DFDS sails towards Norfolkline acquisition

http://www.ifw-net.com/freightpubs/ifw/indexarticle.htm?artid=20017646754

DFDS has admitted it is interested in buying ferry operator Norfolkline from Danish shipping giant AP Moller-Maersk.
DFDS confirmed it was holding discussions with Maersk but declined to say whether it had made an offer.
“We can confirm that DFDS is amongst the parties with whom discussions are taking place,” said DFDS CEO Niels Smedegaard, “It is uncertain, whether a transaction will take place.
“DFDS’s interest is based on a strategic objective of expanding the route network to include more regions in northern Europe to improve the competitiveness of transport solutions and realise operational synergies, including consolidation of existing activities.”
Maersk revealed last week it was interested in selling Norfolkline.
In a shareholder announcement Maersk said it was holding discussions with prospective buyers.

1 comment:

Roy Crook said...

If Maersk sell Norfolkline ferries then will this not weaken the position of Norfolkline transport? Is Maersk planning to sell the other parts of the Norfolkline group?
It maybe difficult to sell the various parts of Norfokline to one company but would DSV be in the picture to acquire the transport side when DFDS is interested in the ferries?