The recently confirmed alliance entitled ‘THE Alliance’ – consisting of Hapag-Lloyd, Hanjin, ‘K’ Line, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Nippon Yusen Kaisha and Yang Ming – has announced that it is planning a ‘trouble-free’ and ‘extensive’ integration of its fleet, as well as setting up a network operations centre in Singapore, according to JOC.com.
Jeremy Nixon, CEO of NYK Line, said: “Some external parties may be artificially trying to raise concerns about there being major disruptions when the switch takes place. In reality, the members have plenty of experience in terms of creating and disengaging from joint agreements, and typically this is carefully planned in advance, and timed to coincide seasonally with the weakest demand period.
“It will be in everyone’s interests to be as cooperative as possible, and to ensure that the disengagement and reengagement process is handled as smoothly as possible post Chinese New Year 2017.”
It was previously reported that THE Alliance had been confirmed and aims to create a reliable shipping service in the East-West trade lanes.
The alliance had initially chosen not to include Hyundai Merchant Marine until its financial situation improves, with the line stating that it will join-up with the other carriers once this has been established.
This follows news that the three new mega-alliances will only be as strong as their members and that a healthy collaboration is essential for survival in a turbulent market.