3 out of 4 European shippers have experienced supply chain disruption in the past 12 months – more than half with significant cost impact

Supply chain disruptions continue to be a major challenge for European shippers, significantly impacting their finances, according to a comprehensive survey of over 2,000 Maersk customers in the Europe Region. Over 76% of businesses reported that these disruptions have caused delays in operations over the past year. Notably, 22% experienced more than 20 disruptive incidents within the past 12 months, and one-third struggled to secure essential materials for production. Additionally, 58% of cargo owners indicated that the disruptions had resulted in far higher costs than expected.

The survey findings highlight the ongoing instability in logistics, even as the effects of the COVID pandemic on supply chains have resolved. New disruptions are now being driven by various root causes, with key factors including an increase in geopolitical conflicts and the impact of severe weather events exacerbated by climate change—such as low water levels in rivers and infrastructure damage from recent flooding in Spain. This concern was echoed by respondents, with 80% identifying geopolitical instability or state-to-state conflicts as the primary potential disruptors to their supply chains in 2024.

"If there is one thing that we have learnt lately, it is that disruption is imminent, and we also know from our customers that they see it that way. But very importantly, we see that European businesses are conscious that the best way to tackle disruption is increasing resilience in supply chains. For us at Maersk, the survey brings a wealth of findings, allowing us to work on solutions that truly help our customers. Such understanding of what really matters to them and how they see the future is truly invaluable."

- Aymeric Chandavoine, President Europe at A.P. Moller - Maersk

The survey also revealed that over half (53%) of businesses are exploring new sourcing locations to mitigate disruptions, with one-third (33%) considering options close to or within Europe. Turkey emerged as the top choice for potential sourcing, noted by 11% of respondents, followed by Egypt (7%), Poland (6%), Morocco (3%), and Romania (2%). To support these shifts, Maersk provides a robust transportation network across these regions, including rail, barge, and other inland solutions, complemented by warehouses and a comprehensive Intra-Europe ocean network.