Readers Speak: Shipping mergers put network strength first

Shipping mergers should be judged primarily by the network strength they create, according to the latest Readers Speak poll. When asked what matters most when shipping lines merge, readers clearly placed network strength ahead of competition, shareholder value and national interests. The result suggests that the strategic value of a stronger combined network is viewed as the most important consideration when assessing consolidation in container shipping. Network strength dominates Network strength emerged as the clear leading choice. The result indicates that readers place particular importance on what a merger can create operationally and strategically for the combined shipping business.