Maersk is restructuring its logistics and forwarding operations following a disappointing earnings performance in late 2025, as the global shipping giant adapts to weaker freight rates and shifting market conditions.
The overhaul involves reorganising Maersk’s logistics portfolio into three new core business lines — Landside, Forwarding, and Solutions — replacing the previous segmentation that customers and analysts found unclear. Under the new structure, the Forwarding division will consolidate air freight forwarding, less‑than‑container‑load (LCL) ocean cargo, project logistics and insurance services.
The changes come as Maersk reported a $153 million operating loss in its ocean division in the fourth quarter of 2025, driven by a 23 % year‑on‑year slump in freight rates despite volume growth, pushing management to sharpen its focus on cost discipline and operational clarity.
Maersk’s broader Logistics & Services segment posted modest revenue growth and improved profitability, but it still lags behind internal targets — prompting leadership to refocus efforts on streamlined reporting and clearer product accountability. Christoph Hemmann, the former global head of Air Product & LCL, has been appointed head of the Forwarding unit under the new structure.
The transitions are expected to take effect on 1 April 2026 and will be reflected in Maersk’s external reporting for the second quarter of the year.