Executive Commentary |
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Notably , the port sector — which has been traditionally averse to offering bonuses and executive benefits due to state or local restrictions — is now beginning to embrace such elements , creating a significant advantage in recruitment .
In today ’ s market , candidates are increasingly unwilling to relocate for jobs due to factors such as family commitments , cost of living
SeaCube Container Leasing
Robert Sappio
CEO www . seacubecontainers . com
As we look ahead to 2025 , uncertainty and global volatility will remain our constant companions . Geopolitical risk is top of mind in almost every board room , and with good reason . The freedom of navigation we all took for granted — and that has underpinned explosive global trade growth — has been challenged in ways not seen in 80 years . Global maritime choke points such as the Suez Canal , the Black Sea and even portions of the South China Sea are being contested , with no easy resolutions in sight . Power competition and outlaw actions by non-state actors threaten stability on trade routes viewed as safe and stable . If left unchecked , these issues will continue to drive network disruption and inefficiencies for supply chains and global maritime networks .
We also face growing threats and uncertainty from contentious labor negotiations in locations around the world . Competition between nations and global tariffs remain an unknown under a new US administration , and carrier alliances are set for massive realignments in the first half of 2025 .
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differences and high mortgage rates .
This trend presents several challenges . Smaller job markets often require attracting candidates from outside the area because the local talent pool is limited . Some roles are inherently not well-suited to hybrid or fully remote work models . Many employers require executives to be onsite , even when the position could be performed remotely .
In 2024 , we adapted to these realities and will need to do so again . We must be clear-eyed in scenario planning and business modeling . In 2024 , massive amounts of new vessel tonnage were absorbed into the network , necessitated by congestion , disruptions and vessel reroutings . The order book for new vessels remains at near-record highs . Along with those ships , the container shipping industry required a record number of new shipping containers to support trade growth and network disruption . Over 7.3 million TEUs of dry containers will be produced in 2024 , a new record . Even in 2021 , during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic , only about 6.5 million TEUs were produced . All these vessels and containers , and perhaps more , will be needed in 2025 to support today ’ s realities . Following a record year in 2024 , new container production would be expected to moderate to more historical annual levels in 2025 . However , the outlook remains very much in doubt .
History makes clear that the only constant is change . If we are all to be good stewards of the industry , we will need to think more about risk management and scenario planning . Relationships with partners will also be more important than ever . The only thing harder than working with partners is working without them .
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“ While salary and hybrid work options are important in recruitment , job challenges , strong leadership and a positive organizational culture are key to attracting and retaining top talent .”
Susan Shey Dvonch
“ If we are all to be good stewards of the industry , we will need to think more about risk management and scenario planning .”
Robert Sappio
“ In 2025 , we must accelerate the pace of the inevitable , significant adaptation . To achieve this , all stakeholders must prepare to make their fair contribution .”
Yorck Niclas Prehm
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While prospective employees naturally seek roles with increased responsibility and earnings , they also want assurance that the team dynamics and organizational culture align with their expectations . In the public sector , insights into these dynamics can be gained through public meetings , news coverage about the organization and its leadership , and one ’ s network of industry contacts .
Candidates consistently seek exceptional organizations . While salary and hybrid work options are important in recruitment , job challenges , strong leadership and a positive organizational culture are key to attracting and retaining top talent .
Toepfer Transport
Yorck Niclas Prehm
Head of Research www . toepfer-transport . com
Despite a year of resilience , the global shipping industry has yet to overcome its key challenges . While markets have demonstrated remarkable strength , the ability to adapt does not negate the underlying causes of these issues . Primary challenges persist , including :
Supply chain disruptions : The ongoing impact of geopolitical tensions , regional conflicts , labor shortages and strikes has continued to disrupt supply chains , leading to delays , congestion at ports and an imbalance in equipment and tonnage availability . Environmental regulations : New international regulations require shipping companies to invest in cleaner technologies , adapt fuel sources or retrofit existing fleets , which will result in significant operational costs .
Port congestion and infrastructure strain : Major ports , particularly in Asia and the United States , have encountered significant congestion due to increased demand , labor shortages and strikes , and infrastructure limitations . This has resulted in delays and inefficiencies .
Digitalization and cybersecurity
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