- Jilted by Hapag-Lloyd’s departure from THE Alliance (THEA), carriers ONE, Yang Ming, and HMM are silent on their future plans.
- THEA’s weakened position may make it challenging for the remaining trio to compete effectively without recruiting a new partner.
- Hapag-Lloyd cited the need for improved schedule reliability as a reason for leaving and joined Maersk in the Gemini Cooperation alliance.
- The move aims to achieve a 90% on-time reliability target, emphasizing a shared commitment to quality.
ONE, Yang Ming, and HMM’s Ongoing Silence
The departure of Hapag-Lloyd from THE Alliance (THEA) has left the remaining members, ONE, Yang Ming, and HMM, contemplating their future strategies. The Q3 financial results from Japanese carrier ONE made no reference to THEA, indicating a cautious stance amid the shake-up.
Current Position of THEA Trio
With a capacity of 1.8 million TEU and a sizable orderbook, ONE is the largest among the remaining THEA members. HMM follows with 783,000 TEU capacity and Yang Ming with 708,000 TEU. Despite their substantial capacities, competing effectively without a new partner may be challenging, especially against alliances like MSC, the Ocean Alliance, and the emerging Gemini Cooperation.
THEA’s Reliability Challenges
THEA has faced challenges in schedule reliability, consistently ranking behind the 2M Alliance, non-alliance lines, and the Ocean Alliance. Hapag-Lloyd’s decision to resign aimed at improving operational reliability, emphasizing a need for a substantial shift. The carrier joined the Gemini Cooperation alliance, targeting a 90% on-time reliability, aligning with Maersk’s emphasis on quality.
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Source: The Loadstar