Unifeeder, a vital part of DP World Marine Services, has emerged as a powerhouse in the intra-Mediterranean shipping market. In 2024, the company achieved a remarkable milestone by tripling its market share to 4.3%, solidifying its status as a leading operator in the region.
Record-Breaking Growth in Capacity
According to Alphaliner, a respected shipping industry analyst, Unifeeder achieved the highest capacity growth in the Mediterranean, catapulting it into the top six operators in the region. The company’s fleet now boasts 20 container ships with a combined capacity of 24,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), equaling the regional presence of global shipping giant COSCO SHIPPING Lines.
Over the past year, Unifeeder introduced seven new intra-Mediterranean services, adding 10,600 TEUs of capacity and boosting the average vessel size to 1,186 TEUs. This expansion reflects the company’s strategic agility in meeting the dynamic needs of the Mediterranean trade sector.
Strengthening Black Sea Connectivity
Unifeeder is set to extend its footprint further into the Black Sea region later this month, reinforcing its commitment to seamless intra-regional trade. This move comes in response to increasing demand for flexible and efficient logistics solutions, which Unifeeder is uniquely positioned to deliver.
Ganesh Raj, Global COO of DP World Marine Services, stated, “Our growth in the intra-Mediterranean and Black Sea regions highlights our ability to adapt and provide tailored solutions that address our customers’ evolving needs. By expanding our fleet and services, we’re enabling regional trade and supporting global supply chains effectively.”
Shifting Trade Dynamics and Strategic Focus
The intra-Mediterranean trade sector experienced a significant capacity increase of 9.3%, adding nearly 50,000 TEUs compared to December 2023. Amid this growth, Unifeeder’s market share surged from 1.5% to 4.3%, a leap that underscores its strategic approach. Mainline operators have increasingly turned to agile regional players like Unifeeder to handle intra-regional services, contributing to this impressive growth.
Martin Gaard, CEO of Unifeeder A/S, explained, “Geopolitical and economic shifts are reshaping the shipping landscape. Our strategic focus on reliable, efficient, and sustainable regional services has been pivotal in navigating these changes and empowering our customers to expand their market reach.”
Mediterranean and Black Sea Network
The Mediterranean and Black Sea regions are important trade hubs connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia. They serve as key routes for transporting goods like food, machinery, and raw materials. Unifeeder’s expanded presence in these areas strengthens the shipping network, ensuring faster and more reliable connections between countries. This allows businesses to trade seamlessly while supporting economic growth in the region.
