ESL Shipping to operate in Russian Arctic areas

ASPO Plc / ESL Shipping Ltd - August 26, 2014




Images by ESL Shipping Ltd





ESL Shipping, part of Aspo Group, continues to expand its operating area. The shipping company's Supramax vessel m/s Kumpula (of iceclass 1A) has successfully delivered the company's first cargo in Russian Arctic waters. Loading took place in Kirkenes, Norway, and the destination of the cargo was the port of Sabetta, located on the eastern side of Yamal peninsula. This first voyage is part of the contract concluded in close cooperation with Norwegian Tschudi Shipping Company AS. Cargo deliveries are expected to continue until November-December 2014, weather and other conditions permitting.

ESL Shipping has unique ice-strengthened Supramax vessels fitted with efficient cargo handling equipment. This enables independent cargo operations also in conditions where port infrastructure is not yet completed. "Economy of scale provided by these unique ships is facilitating good business opportunities in the Arctic region for both ESL Shipping and Tschudi Shipping", comments Mikki Koskinen, Managing Director of ESL Shipping Ltd.

Jon Edvard Sundnes, the CEO of Tschudi Shipping Company AS, expresses his satisfaction not only with the quality of the vessel but also with the professionalism shown by the ESL Shipping team on board and on shore. "It is satisfying to work with good equipment and professional partners in pioneering projects".

ESL Shipping is the leading dry bulk cargo company in the Baltic Sea region. The company's fleet consists of 14 vessels, of which the company owns 13 in full and one is leased. The combined deadweight capacity of the vessels is approximately 267,000 tons. In 2013, ESL Shipping transported approximately 11.6 million tons

Aspo is a conglomerate that owns and develops business operations in northern Europe and emerging markets, focusing on demanding B-to-B customers. Our strong company brands - ESL Shipping, Leipurin, Telko and Kaukomarkkinat - aim to be the market leaders in their sectors. They are responsible for their own operations, customer relationships and the development of these. Together they generate Aspo's goodwill. Aspo's Group structure and business operations are continually developed without any predefined schedules.

ASPO Plc press release