Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have entered a long-term operational collaboration named "Gemini Cooperation," scheduled to commence in February 2025. The strategic partnership aims to establish a new best-in-class ocean network, combining fleets to offer enhanced reliability, reach, and speed to customers. The network will deploy around 290 vessels, with a total capacity of 3.4 million containers (TEU), where Maersk will contribute 60%, and Hapag-Lloyd 40%. Seven major trades will be covered, including routes between Asia and North Europe, Asia and the US East Coast, and Transatlantic services. The network sets an ambitious target of achieving schedule reliability above 90% once fully implemented. To minimize disruptions and complexity, the collaboration will reduce port calls per rotation.
Additionally, a global network of dedicated shuttles centered around owned and controlled transshipment hubs will provide flexibility and resilience against disruptions. The move underscores the importance of a flexible and interconnected ocean network in the face of market fluctuations and supply chain disturbances. Both Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd share commitments to decarbonize their fleets, with Maersk targeting net-zero emissions by 2040 and Hapag-Lloyd by 2045. As part of the collaboration, Hapag-Lloyd will exit THE Alliance at the end of January 2025, and the 2M alliance with MSC will conclude in January 2025.