Maersk ocean and logistics chief executive Vincent Clerc has released an open statement on the current situation for the group amid the ongoing global Covid-19 pandemic.
Clerc said that the gravity of the Covid-19 outbreak, its pace and level of disruption to people's lives and respective businesses was 'truly humbling'.
'At Maersk, we also understand that we have a large responsibility, both for our people and for our partners,' Clerc said. 'You have trusted us to care for a large part of your supply chain, and I wanted to reassure you that we are as committed today, as before to enable your business.'
He emphasised how the safety of Maersk's people matters most, but also acknowledged that its role in supporting customers was more important than ever; whether that was the transport of essential supplies or helping to balance supply with a rapidly changing demand.
'In these times, no one can predict exactly how this will pan out,' Clerc continued. 'We are following the situation very closely and are doing our utmost to minimise the negative impact on your supply chain. We are daily finding solutions to keep global trade running as much as physically possible and to ensure that customers are always able to get their business done with Maersk.'
He outlined how pleased he was that Maersk was able to combine the safety of its teams and its duty to businesses, with operations 'running smoothly' across the globe despite Covid-19.
'Our seafarers who transport your goods have stepped up and extended their time at sea, our office teams are all working remotely on laptops and are available via the usual phone numbers, web and mobile channels, ensuring both social distancing and business continuity,' Clerc noted. 'We have learnt from our Chinese colleagues who have kept the business running throughout the most severe of times and are pleased to share that all our operations are still in place to serve you.
'Personally, I would finally like to share that I am humbled by the trust that you continue to give us and proud and grateful for the customer relations and our teams’ commitment to together weather this storm too,' he added.
