Since its foundation in 2013 the Bremerhaven based shipyard alliance German Dry Docks has taken root in the market. For the future the association envisages sustained growth
German Dry Docks (GDD) is satisfied with the recent development. »2015 was a good year for us, both in terms[ds_preview] of capacity utilization and financial result,« managing director Guido Försterling says. According to Försterling the repair, refit and dock network based on former traditional shipyard Rickmers and MWB Schiffstechnik is well prepared for future challenges. By focussing on single source services related to ship and machine the network plans stand out from market competitors. However, some growth measures will thus be needed for medium to long-term competitiveness.
GDD sees potential for increasing business at home and abroad. A first step has been the acquisition of Rotterdam Ship Repair (RSR) last year. RSR is a provider of mobile repairs. In the face of ship transport in ever more closely coordinated time, there is increasing demand for this business. Following this strategy »Service Point Kiel Canal« had been founded two years ago already, which is a network of initially 20 companies focussing on the coordination of service and repair work in the Kiel Canal. »For GDD, joining RSR has the advantage that we can realize direct access to a market of high importance for the German Dry Docks beyond a further development of our service offerings,« Försterling explains. There had been an extensive cooperation with RSR prior to the transaction. This is the strategy GDD is planning to pursue for the future. »Cooperation is part of our fundamental strategy. We have good experience with cooperation. Without such synergies, surviving in the market turns out to be difficult in the medium term,« the managing director says. For the current year the shipyard boss announces further expansion. Two sites will be added according to current plans. Quite promising discussions are thus being held. In the medium term GDD is heading for a global network for repairs at port and during voyages.
Inter alia, GDD will continue to strengthen its presence in the area of emission reductions, machine building and yacht refit. In addition, a standardized heightening in keel support (Kielpallen) to more than 3,400mm has been realized already to enable underwater work with drive systems.
However, the plants on the outer Weser should remain an important site for the future. »The location is very good thanks to the many liner services in the region. In Bremerhaven we need and want to maintain the status quo and put the business on a solid basis.« GDD is thus willing to continue the »6-Docks strategy« and the competence network on site.RD
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