NWL and DBR to Cooperate as Rhenus Partnership Hanse

The Norddeutsche Wasserweg Logistik GmbH (NWL) and the Deutsche Binnenreederei GmbH (DBR) Hamburg announce their official merger in the container business. The two companies, which have successfully cooperated on a contractual basis for several years, emphasize their long-term collaboration with this step effective January 1, 2024, and are establishing a more intensive strategic partnership as Rhenus Partnership Hanse.

(Hamburg) NWL, the market leader in container transport by inland vessel in Bremen and Bremerhaven, and DBR Hamburg, a specialist in the transport of goods on inland waterways, have been collaborating as part of the Rhenus Group for many years on a contractual basis. The previous close cooperation has been very successful, making it a logical step for both parties to formalize the partnership in the area of container handling and to operate together under the name Rhenus Partnership Hanse. There will be no changes to the existing employment relationships or site allocations for the employees of both companies.

So far, NWL has primarily utilized the shipping capacity of private operators. Through the partnership with DBR Hamburg in the container segment, Rhenus Partnership Hanse now achieves expanded fleet utilization and more flexible capacity. This contributes to synergies and increases operational efficiency. By exchanging know-how, NWL and DBR combine their competencies, creating a solid foundation for future joint projects.

What belongs together flows together

“We are pleased about this milestone in our collaboration and look forward to our joint future. Finally, what belongs together officially flows together, and we now offer first-class service from a single source,” says Tim Böttcher, Managing Director of NWL Norddeutsche Wasserweg Logistik GmbH. René Oloff, also Managing Director of NWL Norddeutsche Wasserweg Logistik GmbH, adds: “Fast turnaround times and efficient processes are crucial for smooth container handling. Moreover, our industry is subject to constant changes. Through our partnership, we can leverage our individual strengths even better to respond flexibly to these changes. We complement each other perfectly.”

Photo: © Rhenus Group / Image caption: MS Hyperion in Bremen