Ocean Network Express opens new office in Gdańsk

The new Central Service Center in Tri-City will handle a variety of tasks for ONE’s European operations. Ocean Network Express (ONE) is a major new global container shipping company that emerged from the legacy of three Japanese liner carriers: Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd (“K” Line), Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Co., Ltd (MOL) and Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK).  With the global headquarters in Singapore and the combined capacity of container fleets at 1 440,000 TEU, the company will cover over 100 countries, including more than 200 key ports from around the world.

The new shipping line stands out with its magenta brand color used in the painting of the ships and containers. The major rebranding process has also resulted in the new look and expansion of its office in Tri-City’s Alchemia complex.

– This office has an immediate feel of shipping operations, as its walls have actually been designed using containers. It almost feels like being on the largest container terminal in the Baltic Sea – says Małgorzata Tusk responsible for Business Services Sector at Invest in Pomerania.

Currently, the Central Service Center in Gdańsk employs 120 people.

– There are many professionals in logistics and shipping on the market here, which will enable us to provide a high level of service to our customers – said Mr. Reiner Zimbalski, Director of the Central Service Center in Gdańsk, during the official opening on 13. August 2018.

While hiring, the company focused on analytical and language skills (English is a must, another European language besides Polish is a benefit), higher education (especially experience in the logistics industry) and knowledge of the maritime sector (a plus).

– The choice of Tri-City as the location was not a coincidence – confirms Mr. Zimbalski. – The center in Gdańsk will be the key part of ONE’s operations and is handling a variety of supporting tasks for Europe, such as equipment (container) management, plus maintenance and repair. Port Operations in Gdańsk communicates with the terminals in the European ports to arrange that all containers are loaded on the right vessel and sent to the correct destination.

Tri-City’s coastal location means it can also be considered for launching new sea connections. This is, however, a decision that must be taken jointly, along with the other members of The Alliance, which is made up of several partners. Mr. Zimbalski agrees nevertheless that Tri-City does have a potential to become an equally important European hub as Hamburg or Rotterdam.

– The development of Tri-City, and especially the growth to be seen at the Port of Gdansk, is showing that Tri-City has been established well within the European shipping map – he says. – Whether it will grow in importance, depends on several economic parameters, which are hard to judge for the time being. Having said this, Tri-City should not give up striving for greatness.

rel (Invest in Pomerania)