COPENHAGEN, (Reuters) – MSC, a container company based in Switzerland, has taken over Denmark’s Maersk, according to the company. This confirms data provided by Alphaliner, an intelligence provider.

Alphaliner stated that MSC, or Mediterranean Shipping Company, has the capacity to transport approximately 4,284 millions twenty-foot containers after taking delivery of several vessels last year. This compares to Maersk’s 4,282 millions.

Alphaliner reports that Alphaliner holds a 17% market share, but both firms said they were not looking for size.

Maersk was asked for comments, as it has been the largest shipper over decades.

Skou stated, “I’d like to become the CEO of the largest logistics and shipping company in the world and believe that I can keep it for a long time.”

“Our goal doesn’t include being number one.” “Our goal is not to be number 1. Our goal it to provide strong returns for customers and do a great job. We also want Maersk to be a fair company for everyone who does business with us.”

Container shipping rates have risen to new heights due to bottlenecks created by an increase in consumer demand after the pandemic.

MSC was privately owned by the Aponte Family. It stated in an emailed message that MSC has been ranked the biggest container carrier worldwide after it invested in ultra-large vessels to “respond to global trade acceleration and clients’ specific needs for our services”.

MSC never set any specific goal. Soren Toft (MSC Chief Executive), who came to the company in late 2020 from Maersk, said that MSC’s focus has been on growth, profitability, and helping customers.

Maersk sold its oil & gas business in 2016 and purchased warehouses, to make it a more integrated logistics company than a conglomerate.

Alphaliner reported that MSC owns about half of its container shipping capacities, and it controls the bulk of theirs.

Alphaliner states that CMA CGM (Cosco) and CMA CGM are the largest container shipping companies, with respective 12.6% and 11.6% market share.