THE ECONOMIST

Limits of economies of scale

11 years ago

COMMENT: We have long believed that economies of scale are the saviour of the maritime industry, for all sectors ranging from terminals and bulk, to tankers and containerships. But in the last few months we have begun to hear opinions suggesting that containerships have reached their maximum size. So, wherein lies the future, asks Ben Hackett.

In perspective: have containerships reached their size ceiling? Credit: F. Berkelaar

COMMENT: We have long believed that economies of scale are the saviour of the maritime industry, for all sectors ranging from terminals and bulk, to tankers and containerships. But in the last few months we have begun to hear opinions suggesting that containerships have reached their maximum size. So, wherein lies the future, asks Ben Hackett.