A.P. Moller-Maersk, widely recognized as Mærsk, is a Danish multinational conglomerate and the largest container shipping company in the world. Founded in 1904, the company is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark. With a market capitalization exceeding $50 billion (2025), Maersk is a cornerstone of global trade and a symbol of Danish industrial prowess.
History and Milestones
Maersk was established by Arnold Peter Møller and his father, Peter Mærsk Møller. Originally a steamship company, it expanded rapidly throughout the 20th century to become a global leader in maritime transportation.
Key milestones include:
1928: Launch of the first Maersk Line service connecting the U.S. and Asia.
1973: Introduction of container shipping, revolutionizing global logistics.
1999: Acquisition of SeaLand, strengthening its position in North America.
2016: Decision to focus solely on transport and logistics, divesting its energy business.
2021: Launch of the world’s first carbon-neutral container ship using methanol.
Products and Services
Maersk provides a wide range of services in global trade and logistics:
Container shipping: Operating over 700 vessels, transporting goods across 130 countries.
Supply chain management: End-to-end solutions, including warehousing, freight forwarding, and customs clearance.
Port operations: Through its subsidiary APM Terminals, managing ports worldwide.
E-commerce logistics: Tailored solutions for online businesses.
Business Model
Maersk’s business model revolves around providing integrated logistics solutions to customers, ensuring efficiency and reliability in global trade. It has shifted from being a pure shipping company to a full-service logistics provider, focusing on:
Digitization: Leveraging technology to streamline operations.
Sustainability: Investing in green fuels and emissions reduction.
Impact on the Nordics and Global Markets
Maersk’s significance is multifaceted:
Economic contribution: It is one of Denmark’s largest companies and a major employer globally.
Global trade: Maersk moves over 20% of the world’s seaborne goods, making it essential for international commerce.
Sustainability leadership: It is a pioneer in decarbonizing shipping, targeting net-zero emissions by 2040.
Sustainability Initiatives
Maersk is at the forefront of sustainability in shipping. It launched its first carbon-neutral ship in 2021 and aims to operate a fleet of green vessels by 2030. The company is also exploring alternative fuels like ammonia and hydrogen.
A.P. Moller-Maersk is a cornerstone of Denmark’s economy and a global leader in logistics. Its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence ensures its continued relevance in the dynamic world of international trade.
Read more on Maersk.com
