Norfolkline is now part of DFDS
DFDS’ shipping routes and logistics network now makes up one of Europe's largest sea-based transport networks
On 17 June, DFDS’ Acquisition of Norfolkline from A.P. Moller-Maersk was approved by the European Competition Authorities. We are delighted to announce that yesterday we were able to finalise the transaction.
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. DFDS now employs approximately 6,000 staff, operates around 63 ships and has an annual turnover of about DKK 11 billion.
DFDS Seaways and DFDS Logistics
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. DFDS Seaways will be the name appearing on the bows of all our ships, and the name our sea transport customers will encounter in every respect.
DFDS Logistics will be the name of our road, rail and container activities.
The aim of our name change is to increase our visibility and recognition to our customers. The name change will not take place immediately, but gradually in line with the integration of the two companies.
Continuous service
By combining the two companies, we will be in an even stronger position to devise new and improved offers and services to our customers, such as better integrated transport solutions and new passenger services.
The integration begins today, but for a period of time our customers will be able to contact us and book their trips or transport as previously and through the same contact people and offices as before.
Management Comments
Jens Skibsted Nielsen– DFDS Seaways Vice President, BU Irish Sea
“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 – Norfolkline – and now Project Coordinator and Corporate Communication for DFDS
“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
“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.