A strategic partnership with Hydro, a global aluminium and energy company, forms part of the new route’s operations. Under the agreement, DFDS will facilitate the weekly shipment of Hydro’s aluminium products.
Mathieu Girardin, Head of DFDS’s Ferry Division, highlighted the market potential of the route and its alignment with the company’s growth objectives:
“This new route offers significant potential which we believe will benefit the broader market and aligns perfectly with our focus on organic growth. We are excited to establish a strong partnership with Hydro, enhancing their supply chain with improved connections to and from Northern Europe and Iberia, further demonstrating that we are a relevant strategic partner for larger companies.”
Hydro Vice President and Head of Logistics, Gerd Aalborg Aas, underscored the importance of logistics in their continuous operations and emphasized the advantages of the new roll on-roll off (RoRo) solution:
“Logistics play a key part in keeping our business running 24/7. The cooperation with DFDS will contribute to further implementation of our roll on-roll off (RoRo) solution, which is safer and more efficient compared to traditional methods. Smarter shipping saves both money and emissions and ensures our customers get their products on time.”
The RoRo method involves rolling aluminium products directly onto cargo ships, eliminating crane use and reducing safety risks. This approach also improves loading efficiency, cutting the time required by half, allowing ships to travel at reduced speeds while maintaining timely deliveries. The environmental benefits include reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions.
DFDS will operate the route with the vessel Belgia Seaways, which has a capacity of 2,660 lanemeters.