Dutch Shipping Companies Vertom and UAL Plan Strategic Combination to Expand Global Breakbulk and Project Cargo Network
Dutch shipping and logistics group Vertom and multipurpose shipping specialist Universal Africa Lines (UAL) have announced plans to combine their businesses in a strategic move aimed at strengthening their presence across global breakbulk shipping, project cargo logistics, and container transport markets.
The proposed transaction will unite Vertom’s extensive shortsea shipping network and fleet of more than 80 vessels with UAL’s established liner shipping and project cargo operations serving the Atlantic Basin and African trade routes.
According to the companies, both organizations will continue operating under their existing brands and maintain their individual market identities while pursuing closer cooperation in commercial activities, fleet deployment strategies, and customer service solutions.
Arjan de Jong, Chief Executive Officer of Vertom, said the combination would enhance the market positions of both companies within the liner shipping and multipurpose vessel sectors.
“By combining our fleets, networks and expertise, we are creating a stronger, more competitive platform that enhances our market position and broadens our service offering,” De Jong said.
Roger Jungblut, Chief Executive Officer of Universal Africa Lines, said the two companies share a similar philosophy toward shipping and logistics services and see significant opportunities to strengthen operational capabilities through closer collaboration.
The planned combination will establish a broader maritime transport network connecting Europe, the Caribbean, the US Gulf, South America, West Africa, and East Africa. The expanded network will also build upon UAL’s existing intra-African and Caribbean shipping services.
Headquartered in Rhoon near Rotterdam, Vertom has developed into one of Europe’s largest shortsea shipping operators since its establishment in 1974. The company is active across shipping, freight forwarding, tanker chartering, port agency services, and liner shipping operations, employing approximately 1,000 people worldwide.
Founded in 1973 and based in Capelle aan den IJssel, UAL specializes in multipurpose liner shipping and integrated logistics solutions, particularly for oil and gas project cargoes. The company operates geared multipurpose vessels and landing craft serving trade routes between Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, the US Gulf, and South America.
The companies stated that the proposed combination is expected to create opportunities to optimize vessel utilization, expand market access, and enhance integrated logistics services covering breakbulk cargo, project cargo, and containerized shipments.
The transaction remains subject to customary regulatory procedures and approvals and is expected to be completed during the second half of 2026.
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