Maersk is restructuring its Logistics and Services division to boost profitability. The company will split the unit into three distinct product segments. This move follows years of underperformance that kept it short of its 6% operating margin target—set nearly five years ago.
The segment’s EBIT margin rose to 4.8% in 2025 from 3.6% in 2024. Yet this is only slightly above the 4.2% recorded in 2021 when the target was first set. Clearly, incremental gains are no longer enough.
“We are proud of the progress we have made,” Maersk said. “But we are neither complacent nor satisfied with where we are.” The company stressed the need to accelerate both financial results and growth.
A key part of the strategy involves attracting more shipper-direct volume. That means cargo booked directly by large shippers, not through freight forwarders. This approach gives Maersk end-to-end control over the supply chain. It also improves service visibility, pricing power, and data insights.
The new three-segment structure will allow sharper focus. Each segment will target specific customer needs—like warehousing, intermodal transport, or distribution. This should streamline operations and improve performance tracking.
Moreover, the change aligns with Maersk’s goal of becoming an integrated logistics provider. Instead of just moving containers, it wants to manage entire supply chains. So far, however, the Logistics unit has lagged behind Ocean and Terminals in profitability.
Therefore, leadership sees clearer organization as essential. Simplifying the structure should speed up decisions, cut internal friction, and boost customer responsiveness.
In short, the Maersk logistics restructuring shows renewed urgency. With supply chains evolving and competition rising, Maersk must turn logistics from a drag into a driver of profitable growth.