RHENUS-ARKON-SHIPINVEST GMBH & CO. KG
Shaping the Future of European Shipping Together
In March 2017, ARKON SHIPPING GmbH & Co. KG welcomed Rhenus SE & Co. KG as an additional shareholder, strengthening its strategic position within the European shipping market. At a time of industry consolidation, accelerating digitalisation, and evolving supply chains, this partnership marked an important milestone in the long-term growth strategy of the ARKON Group. By combining maritime expertise with comprehensive logistics capabilities, both partners are creating innovative and sustainable solutions for the European Short Sea market.
The Rhenus Group is one of the world's leading logistics providers. With more than 39,000 employees across over 1,300 locations worldwide, the family-owned company develops integrated solutions along the entire supply chain. From transportation and warehousing to customs services and value-added logistics, customer requirements remain at the centre of every activity.
In June 2017, Rhenus and ARKON jointly established Rhenus-Arkon-Shipinvest GmbH & Co. KG (RHAS). The company was founded to identify, develop, and implement forward-looking investment projects within the maritime sector. Supported by shareholder equity, RHAS focuses on leveraging digital technologies and innovative concepts to create a new generation of environmentally sustainable and economically efficient vessels for the European Short Sea trade.
Hanse Eco: Innovation for Sustainable Shipping
This vision led to the launch of the Hanse Eco Project, an innovative in-house shipbuilding concept designed to meet the challenges of modern shipping. RHAS commissioned the construction of five Hanse Eco Short Sea Coasters, representing a new generation of vessels tailored to the requirements of European coastal and regional trades.
The Hanse Eco vessels incorporate the latest advancements in environmental technology, digitalisation, and vessel design. A range of innovative features contributes to improved operational efficiency and reduced environmental impact. These include an optimised hull form that lowers fuel consumption and a forward-positioned bridge that enhances visibility during cargo operations.
With an extended cargo hold and a continuous deck layout, the vessels offer exceptional flexibility for transporting a wide variety of cargoes. In addition to traditional bulk and breakbulk commodities, they are ideally suited for project cargo and oversized freight. Their open-top capability further expands operational possibilities, enabling access to new cargo segments and providing customers with flexible transport solutions for modern supply chains.
Rhenus-Arkon-Shipinvest combines maritime know-how, logistics expertise, and innovative investment strategies to actively shape the future of sustainable European Short Sea Shipping.
