We sat down with Bo Drewsen, Chairman at Project Cargo Weekly, CLC Projects, and Cross Ocean, to talk about his thoughts on the current breakbulk market, and what he’s looking forward to about Antwerp XL 2020.
The wind power industry, both on and off-shore. Supplies for that and global transports of all components will be a big part of the market in 2020.
A big challenge will be how to overcome economic weakness in Europe, and how to navigate the trade war between USA and China. There will be a need to enforce a European relationship with Russia.
A problem that many often face: where to find suitable cargo for costly, high-tech vessels.
Maybe a few! The lack of breakbulk cargo, a lack of cargo exports from the USA. The slow down of economies is also a concern, especially given the current climate: politics can have an ever-increasing negative impact on global trade activies.
An opportunity is presenting itself in the limitation of ship size for container vessels.
The market needs to capitilise on this with improved sailing schedules & more frequent breakbulk sailings that deliver the right tonnage at the requested time!
The scrapping of container ships, more frequent breakbulk services sailing, and the increasing flexibility with regard to the composition of cargo.
I’d like to enjoy a bit less stress, and have more fun!
Achieve a better mutual understanding with friends, colleagues and clients, and continue a level of respectful treatment of partners.
Mr Donald J. Trump
In my opinion, other industry events have become exaggerated by inviting and accepting companies that have nothing or little to do with the real breakbulk industry.
Antwerp XL wants to keep the focus on breakbulk. At least that was the message we were receiving for the first event. If they keep the same track I think the event will be a long term success.
There was a good vibe between the exhibitors themselves, and with the visitors.
Each person was able to have a good conversation with the companies they wanted to, which is not the case anymore with some other industry events.
The improved ability to network over some other events was one of the biggest positives about Antwerp XL!
Yes, definitely!
Even though the event takes place in April 2020, the IMO sulphur cap will still be the new thing and new findings & best practices have to be presented well. Blockchain in shipping and the possibilities this technology is bringing also needs to be underlined constantly.
A lot of good companies were there, and many good contacts were established already in the first year. The organisers should keep on the same track and make sure they continue to carefully select the future exhibitors to keep things breakbulk.
