Despite a turbulent geopolitical and macroeconomic landscape, Maersk kicked off 2025 with a 7.8% revenue increase, hitting USD 13.3 billion, and a substantial leap in EBIT to USD 1.3 billion from USD 177 million year-on-year. The numbers show resilience and a steady hand on the wheel, especially as the global supply chain continues to navigate choppy waters. Though sequential results dipped, this was in line with internal expectations.
Ocean Division Holds the Line
Ocean operations remain the backbone of the business. Higher freight rates and steady volumes pushed EBIT to USD 743 million—up significantly from last year’s same quarter. While results dipped compared to Q4, Vincent Clerc, Maersk CEO, emphasized stability and high utilization, noting the company’s focus on optimization and cost control. The newly launched East-West network from February is reportedly on track to enhance both reliability and efficiency.
Logistics & Services Gains Ground
Logistics & Services turned in an improved EBIT margin of 4.1%, fueled by strong performance across multiple products. Project Logistics was a bright spot, driving an 18% increase in freight management revenues. Fulfilment services also saw notable operational gains, reinforcing the segment’s role in broadening Maersk’s end-to-end offerings.
Terminals Push Forward
The Terminals division kept up its impressive performance. Higher throughput, improved revenue per move, and increased storage income all contributed. Automation and better capacity utilization helped keep costs in check. Return on invested capital (ROIC) climbed to 14.5%, reinforcing the segment’s strong value contribution.
Looking Ahead
Despite maintaining its full-year guidance—underlying EBITDA between USD 6-9 billion and EBIT up to USD 3 billion—Maersk is bracing for a tough environment. Container volume growth is now projected between -1% and 4% amid growing uncertainty. Red Sea disruptions are expected to linger for the remainder of 2025, adding to the operational complexity.
Vincent Clerc highlighted the company’s proactive approach: “We are doubling down on the work underway on automation and cost management to remain fit for what lies ahead.” In a world where volatility is the only constant, Maersk seems committed to staying ready.
