DFDS Ferry Volumes: December 2024 - Adjusted Growth on Level

As we wrap up the year, let's take a closer look at the December 2024 ferry volumes for DFDS, the leading transport network in and around Europe. Despite economic clouds, retailers see sunshine, and technology like artificial intelligence (AI) is fueling optimism for growth in 2024. However, it's not all sunshine and roses, as inflation remains a pressing concern, squeezing profit margins and demanding strategic pricing adjustments. Labor shortages and supply chain disruptions continue to test adaptability, but retailers are finding ways to navigate these challenges and maintain growth.

In December 2024, total transported freight lane metres increased 8.4% to 41.5m from 38.3m in 2023. This growth was 4.0% adjusted for route changes, including the addition of Strait of Gibraltar routes, closure of Calais-Tilbury, and the opening of Damietta-Trieste. The increase in volumes was driven by several factors:

1. Holiday season impact: The holiday season's greater impact on the number of operating days compared to 2023 led to a reduction in volumes, particularly in the North Sea, where volumes were below 2023 levels.
2. Channel trend: The Channel continued to trend above 2023 levels, contributing to the overall growth in volumes.
3. Baltic Sea and Mediterranean volumes: Volumes in the Baltic Sea and Mediterranean remained on level with 2023, with the latter facing increased competition in one corridor.
4. Route changes: The addition of new routes, such as Strait of Gibraltar and Damietta-Trieste, as well as the closure of Calais-Tilbury, contributed to the adjusted growth in volumes.

These factors combined to result in an 8.4% increase in total transported freight lane metres in December 2024 compared to the previous year.



The addition of Strait of Gibraltar routes and the closure of Calais-Tilbury in 2023 had a significant impact on overall volumes for DFDS. According to the provided data, total transported freight lane metres increased by 8.4% to 41.5m from 38.3m in 2023, with the increase being 4.0% adjusted for the route changes. This indicates that the new routes contributed to the overall growth in volumes, while the closure of Calais-Tilbury did not have a substantial negative impact on the total volumes.

The opening of the Damietta-Trieste route in 2024 played a significant role in maintaining adjusted growth on level for DFDS. According to the provided information, total transported freight lane metres increased 8.4% to 41.5m from 38.3m in 2023. However, when adjusted for route changes, including the closure of Calais-Tilbury in 2023 and the opening of Damietta-Trieste in 2024, the increase was 4.0%. This indicates that the new route contributed to the overall growth, helping to offset the impact of the closure of the Calais-Tilbury route.

In conclusion, DFDS ferry volumes in December 2024 showed adjusted growth on level, driven by route changes and a resilient consumer seeking value amidst economic challenges. As retailers continue to navigate inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions, they remain optimistic about the growth potential of AI and other technologies in 2024.