Splash247: Dutch shipping groups Vertom and UAL set out combination plans

Published by Splash247

Dutch shipping and logistics group Vertom and fellow multipurpose specialist Universal Africa Lines (UAL) have unveiled plans to combine their businesses in a move aimed at expanding their reach across key breakbulk, project cargo and container trades.

The proposed transaction will bring together Vertom’s shortsea shipping network and fleet of more than 80 vessels with UAL’s established liner and project cargo operations serving the Atlantic basin and Africa.

The companies said both businesses would continue to operate under their existing brands and maintain their individual identities while exploring opportunities for closer cooperation across commercial activities, fleet deployment and customer services.

Vertom chief executive Arjan de Jong said the combination would strengthen both companies’ positions in the liner and multipurpose shipping markets.

“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.

UAL chief executive Roger Jungblut said the two companies shared a similar approach to shipping and logistics services and saw opportunities to strengthen their capabilities through closer cooperation.

The combination would create a broader network linking Europe, the Caribbean, the US Gulf, South America, West Africa and East Africa, while also building on UAL’s intra-African and Caribbean services.

Vertom, headquartered in Rhoon near Rotterdam, has grown into one of Europe’s largest shortsea operators since its establishment in 1974. The company operates across shipping, freight forwarding, tanker chartering, port agency and liner services and employs around 1,000 people globally.

UAL, founded in 1973 and based in Capelle aan den IJssel, focuses on multipurpose liner shipping and logistics, particularly for oil and gas-related cargoes. The company operates geared multipurpose vessels and landing craft serving trades between Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, the US Gulf and South America.

The companies said the combination is expected to create opportunities to optimise vessel utilisation, expand market access and enhance integrated logistics offerings covering breakbulk, project cargo and container shipments.

The transaction remains subject to customary procedures and approvals and is expected to be completed during the second half of 2026.