Ferry Freight Volume Growth Insights
DFDS, a prominent player in ferry transportation across Europe, has reported significant increases in ferry freight volumes for November. The totals for November 2024 show a 10.4% rise compared to 2023, with an adjustment of 4.7% when considering the newly added Strait of Gibraltar routes for 2024, the closure of the Calais-Tilbury route in 2023, and the prior sale of the Oslo-Frederikshavn-Copenhagen route.
Across key maritime routes such as the North Sea, Channel, and Baltic Sea, DFDS has witnessed an upward trend, with freight volumes surpassing those of the previous year. While the Mediterranean sector experienced a downturn, largely attributed to heightened competition, the overall freight growth remained impressive.
Reviewing the performance over the last twelve months, the total transported freight lane metres rose by 7.7%, climbing to 41.4 million from 38.4 million in the previous period. The percentage increase, adjusting for the previously noted route changes, stood at 3.9%. This growth trend indicates a solid resurgence in interest for ferry freight services following previous challenges faced by the logistics sector.
Passenger Traffic on the Rise
In terms of passenger transport, DFDS experienced compelling growth in November 2024, with the number of passengers increasing by an astounding 37.6% over the same month in 2023. The adjusted figure, accounting for route changes, still demonstrated a healthy increase of 22.4%. Key to this impressive growth was a significant uptick in Channel volumes, which benefited from shifts in travel patterns due to the timing of school holidays in the UK.
Moreover, the volume of cars transported by DFDS was remarkable, climbing by 40.4% compared to last year, with an 8.4% adjustment for route changes. This highlights the increasing reliance on ferry services for both personal and commercial transport options.
When taking a broader view of the year, the total number of passengers moved from an estimated 4.5 million in 2023 to around 6.6 million in November 2024—a robust increase of 47.2%. Even after adjustments for route changes, the increase remains noteworthy at 8.0% over the twelve-month period.
Monthly Volume Reporting and Projections
DFDS routinely publishes reports on ferry volumes for both freight and passengers to offer stakeholders insights into developing trends across its extensive European route network. Such reports are invaluable in assessing market conditions that affect trade and leisure travel.
The forthcoming volume report for December 2024 is eagerly anticipated, scheduled for release on January 13, 2025, at approximately 10:00 AM CET. Stakeholders and industry analysts are keen to see how the momentum from the November figures carries into the holiday season.
About DFDS: A Foundation of Growth
Established in 1866 and based in Copenhagen, DFDS operates a vast transportation network throughout Europe. With an impressive annual revenue stream of DKK 30 billion, the company employs about 17,000 full-time staff dedicated to facilitating trade and travel.
DFDS moves goods via ferry, road, and rail, while also providing a spectrum of complementary logistics solutions. Additionally, the company caters to car and foot passengers on various short sea and overnight ferry routes. This comprehensive approach enables DFDS to remain a key transportation provider in the region.
Contact information for inquiries includes Torben Carlsen, the CEO, reachable at +45 33 42 32 01; Karen Boesen, the CFO, at +45 20 58 58 40; Søren Brøndholt Nielsen, IR, at +45 33 42 33 59; and Dennis Kjærsgaard, Media, at +45 42 30 38 47.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the growth rate of DFDS ferry freight volumes for November?
The growth rate for November 2024 was reported at 10.4% compared to the same month in 2023.
How much did passenger numbers increase in November 2024?
DFDS reported a 37.6% increase in passenger numbers for November 2024 compared to the previous year.
What factors contributed to increased passenger volumes?
Higher Channel volumes, influenced by UK half-term breaks, significantly drove the increased passenger figures.
When will the next volume report be released by DFDS?
The next report, detailing December 2024 volumes, will be published on January 13, 2025.
What services does DFDS offer?
DFDS provides ferry, road, and rail transportation, as well as logistics solutions, connecting various routes across Europe.
