Norfolkline becomes part of DFDS
DFDS’ acquisition of Norfolkline from A.P. Moller-Maersk has been approved by the European Competition Authorities.
The new DFDS is one of Europe's largest sea-based transport networks with freight and passenger routes in the Baltic Sea, the North Sea, the Irish Sea and the English Channel and with road and rail transport services covering most of Europe – now employing approximately 6,000 staff, operating around 63 ships and with an annual turnover of about DKK 11 billion.
Today, DFDS is known to its customers by many names, such as DFDS Tor Line, DFDS Lisco, DFDS Lys Line, DFDS Seaways, as well as Speedcargo, Halléns and DFDS Container Line. With the acquisition of Norfolkline, the name structure will be changed, so that in future DFDS will be known by two brand names: DFDS Seaways and DFDS Logistics. DFDS is the name of the Group
DFDS Seaways comprises all passenger routes and freight ships with associated terminals. The name will be the name appearing on the bows of all its ships, and it will be the name its sea transport customers will encounter in every respect.
DFDS Logistics will be the name of the group’s road, rail and container activities. The aim of the name change is to increase visibility and recognition to customers. The name change will not take place immediately, but gradually in line with the integration of the two companies.
In a statement DFDS outlined that by combining the two companies it will be in an even stronger position to devise new and improved offers and services for its customers, such as better integrated transport solutions and new passenger services.
The integration begins immediately but for a period of time customers will be able to contact DFDS and book their trips or transport as previously and through the same contact people and offices as before.
Jens Skibsted Nielsen, DFDS Seaways Vice President, BU Irish Sea, said: “This acquisition allows us to operate on a greater scale and strengthens our freight operation throughout Northern Europe and increases our overall service offerings in shipping and transport solutions.”
Devdeep Dahiya, formerly of Norfolkline and now Project Coordinator and Corporate Communication for DFDS, stated: “The acquisition of Norfolkline by DFDS is a strategic union of companies which enables a stronger sea-based as well as land-based route network with an increasing reach for customers and unique opportunities for employees.”
John Crummie, DFDS Seaways UK Managing Director, added: “This is an exciting time for DFDS Seaways as we work towards taking sea transport and travel to a new level by offering a far greater choice of travel options to passengers and an enhanced customer service experience.”
The company is moving swiftly through the integration process and has previously announced the senior management structure with final organisation details anticipated to be completed by mid-September.
The focus during the integration process is on a smooth customer transition and positive customer experience, offering people an enhanced travel choice and experience along with an easier choice of booking options. The two organisations have a natural fit which has revealed little overlap and the process has therefore been simplified.
For further information, visit: www.dfdsseaways.co.uk
Published: 19/07/2010
