A big potential in the future

“It has not been easy in the beginning”, Julian Rohde starts the conversation. “When starting with Wagenborg as a new shipping company for Nordkalk, both had much to learn about each other. There were issues about how to handle our cargo. But I am glad we always had a good dialogue and were able to find good solutions. So, overall I am very satisfied and consider Wagenborg a reliable partner. That is why we continued our cooperation in this new contract”.

Coos adds: “I fully agree with Julian. Despite some struggles in the beginning, I am happy with the past and look forward to opportunities in the present future.”

Julian continues: “A lot can happen in the future; we see the market change rapidly. The climate change is another challenge, leading to growing environmental regulation. In Nordkalk’s case, this is also a business driver, since limestone-based products are needed in various cleaning processes. Nevertheless, we really have to be competitive. You have to understand limestone has a low price. Logistic costs are a big part of our business, so competitive freight prices are key to win in our business. But it is not all about prices. A flexible and diverse fleet make the difference for us. On the one hand we use general cargo vessels for the normal limestone and coals. But on the other hand we need special types of niche vessels for our quicklime.”

Coos explains: “We have a young fleet of vessels ranging in size from 2.000 - 23.000 tonnes. The m.v. Westborg and m.v. Berkborg are key vessels for Nordkalk. Both vessels are dedicated assigned to the Nordkalk contract and have both been equipped with an excavator to load and discharge themselves.”

Julian continues: “Especially in Pargas these kind of special vessels are essential to us, since the port is not equipped with port cranes. Another special type of vessel is required for transporting quicklime, which requires a closed system for loading and discharging. “ Coos continues: “We have now a couple of years to develop - or even build - a special dedicated vessel for Nordkalk. It is something we have to investigate.”

“For now it is important for both Nordkalk and Wagenborg to talk in depth on a regular basis about these challenges. This way we both can react on changes in the market.”, states Coos. Julian reacts: “A constant dialogue is indeed important. That is why we like to work directly with a shipowner instead of using a broker. It gives us the opportunity to grow together in the long term. I think there is a big potential in the future and I am looking forward to it. Maybe we even can increase the tonnage to Wagenborg. Supply chain management, logistics solutions and shipping are important for Nordkalk. We are pleased to have signed again a 3-year contract with Wagenborg. Thanks to its large fleet of over 180 general cargo vessels Wagenborg can offer flexible and efficient sea-freights for Nordkalk and its customers. We look forward to continuing the co-operation, and we trust that the good customer service, as well as, increased availability of suitable tonnage for our needs will enhance our business opportunities and our success.”, Julian concludes.