- Gemini Cooperation aims to improve shipping schedule reliability from mid-50% to over 90%.
- The hub-and-spoke model replaces direct services, reducing congestion and enhancing predictability.
- APM Terminals invests $3 billion in upgrades and expands hub capacity by 40%.
- Early results show success, with ships like Maersk Antares arriving ahead of schedule.
On March 4, 2025, during the Transpacific Maritime (TPM) Conference in Long Beach, California, Lars Mikael Jensen, Global Head of Hubs at APM Terminals, participated in a panel discussion alongside Hapag-Lloyd CEO Rolf Habben Jansen and shipping analyst Lars Jensen. The session, titled “How Gemini Is Shaking Up the Schedule Reliability Game,” focused on a major transformation in modern container shipping—the Gemini Cooperation, according to APM Terminals.
The Need for Improved Schedule Reliability
For years, industry-wide schedule reliability has remained stuck in or below the mid-50% range, causing inefficiencies in global trade. The Gemini Cooperation aims to push reliability above 90%, offering an unprecedented level of predictability not seen since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing a packed conference hall, Jensen emphasized the crucial role of hub terminals in driving this transformation.
A Shift from Traditional Direct Services
The shipping industry has historically relied on direct services with multiple port calls, a model that contributes to congestion and schedule delays. The Gemini Cooperation introduces a more streamlined approach with key improvements:
- Reducing the number of port calls per service to minimize congestion
- Utilizing strategic hub terminals and dedicated gateways for better operational control
- Deploying dedicated shuttle services to ensure predictable cargo movement
- Incorporating buffer time into schedules to absorb potential disruptions
APM Terminals’ Role in Enhancing Reliability
At TPM 2025, the message was clear: hub terminal performance is fundamental to Gemini’s success. By integrating hub operations with the Gemini Cooperation’s East-West ocean network, real-time decision-making is enhanced, reducing disruptions.
To support this transformation, APM Terminals has made significant investments, including:
- $3 billion in terminal infrastructure and technological upgrades
- 40% capacity expansion at hub terminals upon completion of upgrades
- Doubling container processing speed compared to 2016 levels
“When ships arrive on schedule, terminals operate more efficiently. APM Terminals is playing a key role in making that a reality for Gemini.” – Lars Mikael Jensen
Early Success and Industry Impact
Initial results indicate Gemini Corporation’s potential to revolutionize global shipping. At TPM, Jensen highlighted the on-time performance of the Maersk Antares, which arrived at Pier 400 in Los Angeles 54 minutes ahead of schedule.
So far, Gemini calls have generally been on or ahead of schedule, and departures from Asia have remained on time—a strong indicator of the network’s ability to deliver the reliability that shippers need.
For businesses, this enhanced reliability means:
- Less uncertainty in logistics planning
- Lower costs due to reduced delays
- Optimized supply chain efficiency with minimal buffer stock
“Reliability allows businesses to focus on growth rather than having to wonder where their cargo is.” – Lars Mikael Jensen
With the Gemini Cooperation, the container shipping industry is entering a new era of predictability and efficiency. By moving away from traditional direct-service models and leveraging strategic hub terminals, the initiative is set to reshape global shipping reliability—benefiting shippers, terminals, and carriers alike.
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Source: APM Terminals
