This internal focus at Maersk Line is not, however, likely to be the only outcome of what Maersk Line chief executive Eivind Kolding originally described as a new “streamline strategy.”

In the past, we have seen Maersk Line play some very interesting games when it comes to the selection of certain ports, one of the most memorable being how it played off Baltimore against New York when selecting a US east coast load centre. Now it seems that signs are appearing that Maersk Line is considering anew the leverage it has with individual ports and terminal operators (although this is unlikely to include its sister company APM Terminals) as part of its pursuit of a stronger profit profile.

Where it sees leverage then expect a list of demands typically involving a reduction in price and upping the list of service requirements including the payment of penalties if the required performance is not achieved. And don’t think you are entirely safe if you already have a contract with a way to run… that might just fall by the wayside too!

There is a ruthless determination afoot in Maersk Line to improve business performance with this described as focused on four key elements: filling ships with profitable cargo; product reliability; faster more responsive service; and reduced complexity and cost. This last element may have bigger implications for many ports and terminals than originally anticipated.