A recent study by a global business-advisory firm AlixPartners has hinted at a possible consolidation of the container shipping industry with view of its declining performance this year.
The firm had stated that an increased supply of vessels, coupled with the introduction of giant ships, had met with a dwindling demand in the second half of last year resulting to overcapacity, low profitability and reduced cash flow.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Industry profits measured by earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) has indicated a fall in the profit incurred by the maritime industry leading to working-capital challenges which is said to herald a bankruptcy.
An Altman Z-score analysis revealed that the shipping industry dwells on the ‘distress’ zone predicting bankruptcy.
The industry is said to have not been in the safe zone since 2007.
The study hinted that recent mergers such as Hapag-Lloyd acquisition of Compania Sud Americana de Vapores (CSAV), CMA CGM purchase of Neptune Orient Lines and the combination of China Shipping Container Lines and China Ocean Shipping (COSCO) could lead to a consolidation of the container-shipping industry.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataAlixPartners managing director and co-head of the firm’s maritime practice Foster Finley said: "Further consolidation and operational overhauls will be necessary if players in this industry, which as a whole remains deeply troubled, wish to reap the kind of benefits enjoyed in other industries.
"In addition, these uncertain market conditions are casting a long shadow over the annual rate-negotiation cycle kicking off between major importers and their carrier bases."
The study had enlisted some measures to be undertaken by the maritime companies to combat the reported depression.
The measures include shoring balance sheets, reducing debt loads and selling noncore assets; adopt cost effective techniques and incorporate new opportunities to utilise lower slot costs to uncovering new markets.
