Maersk Tankers has announced plans to launch a new standalone digital business to sell its SimBunker software product to vessel owners and managers in the tramp shipping industry.
SimBunker is used to optimise ship voyages across parameters such as speed, bunker purchasing and vessel route, with the goal of reducing overall fuel costs. The software product was developed within Maersk Tankers and will now be spun off into the new digital business, along with its related customer base.
The spin-off is a direct consequence of the company’s new digitalisation strategy, put in place in 2016 with the aim of developing new digital capabilities and products in-house to enhance Maersk Tankers’ core business. This optimisation software product is a direct result of that initiative.
“Digitisation will enhance customer and partner experience, transform our business and contribute to a more efficient operation, benefitting both sustainability and profitability,” said Christian Ingerslev, Chief Executive Officer of Maersk Tankers.
“This becomes increasingly important at a time when the shipping industry must adapt to take its share in solving complex challenges posed by climate change and new regulatory requirements. With the new set-up, we will be able to accelerate our digital strategy.”
Management team
The as yet unnamed spin-off business will have its own dedicated team and management focused on development of the software product, built around employees from the existing Maersk Tankers Digital team and supported by new hires.
It will be led by Soren Meyer, who is leaving his role as Chief Asset Officer of Maersk Tankers to take up the position of Chief Executive Officer of the new business, reporting to Mr Ingerslev. >>>continued on page 2
