Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd Launch Gemini Cooperation Network

Two of the world's leading logistics companies, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd AG, announced an agreement for a new long-term operational alliance under the name "Gemini Cooperation," which is expected to begin operations in February 2025. Through the alliance, both companies aim to deliver a flexible and interconnected ocean network that offers industry-leading reliability.

"By entering this cooperation, we will offer our customers a flexible ocean network that will raise the bar for reliability in the industry. This will strengthen our integrated logistics offering and meet our customers' needs," says Vincent Clerc, CEO, Maersk.

Maersk controls 14.6% of global containers, while Hapag-Lloyd AG holds 6.9%, according to Alphaliner. Under the Gemini Cooperation, the companies will create a fleet pool of about 290 vessels with a combined capacity of 3.4 million containers (TEU). Maersk will provide 60% of this fleet and Hapag-Lloyd 40%, representing 25.7% and 43.12% of their respective fleet capacities, based on Alphaliner data.

The Gemini Cooperation will provide 26 mainline services supplemented by a global network of dedicated shuttles centered around owned and/or controlled transshipment hubs. These hubs will include 14 shuttle services in the European Union, four in the Middle East, 13 in Asia, and one in the Gulf of Mexico. The shuttle services promise swift connections with flexible capacity between hubs and ports, ensuring efficient logistics operations.

"Teaming up with Maersk will help us further boost the quality we deliver to our customers. Additionally, we will benefit from efficiency gains in our operations and joint efforts to further accelerate the decarbonization of our industry," says Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO, Hapag-Lloyd.

The cooperation is set to cover seven major trades: Asia-US West Coast, Asia-US East Coast, Asia-Middle East, Asia-Mediterranean, Asia-North Europe, Middle East-India/Europe, and Transatlantic. As part of the agreement, Hapag-Lloyd will exit THE Alliance at the end of January 2025. Similarly, Maersk and MSC had previously announced the conclusion of the 2M alliance in January 2025. The transition from existing alliances to new operational cooperation will be carefully planned throughout 2024, with both companies working to ensure that customer service remains uninterrupted.

Maersk has made significant investments to expand its operations in Mexico. The company connects Mexico with the United States and Canada and has been investing in border states to build distribution warehouse solutions to distribute products. Last year, the company started the second phase of construction of its Specialized Container Terminal II in the Port of Lazaro Cardenas, which aims to be a hub for the Americas region.

In Mexico, Hapag-Lloyd provides transportation services, security information, reefer, and custom clearance, among other services. Last year, the company and its Mexican business partner, Transportes Marva, started ground operations with BYD's 100% electric heavy units, aiming to cut at least 2,000 tons of CO2 annually.