ETA 2nd Autumn Conference was a big success with more than 100 attendants representing the towage industry and its suppliers. The event gathered ETA full and associate members and stakeholders from the maritime and logistics sectors. The presentations and debates focused on successful business models in these two industries. The panellists analysed the current situation of the European towage sector and the necessary steps it will have to take in order to adapt to the disruptive changes posed by digitalization, emissions reductions and the impact of megaships.
Alec Laing (ACL Shipbrokers) opened the Conference with an overview of the European towage market current situation and an analysis of the main issues affecting its competitiveness. Furthermore, Mr Laing outlined his views on how the sector shall look like in the next decades predicting accelerated changes and the need for governmental action.
Arnstein Eknes (DNV GL) described the disruptive impact digitalization shall have in the towage industry. Mr Eknes advocated for a smart use of digital technologies as the best way to remain competitive while reducing emissions and increasing the safety of operations. But he insisted on the need to adapt these IT technology to each towage company needs in order to obtain the best results.
Marten van den Bossche (Ecorys) analysed shipping industry future from a maritime business management perspective. His presentation focused on the impact of shipping lines and megaships and how sectors like port towage are coping with the big changes posed by these business trends. Furthermore, Mr. van den Bossche summarized the necessary measures to maintain the European towage industry global leadership.
Ewout Mante (IT consultant) gave a pretty enthralling presentation on the disruptive effects of digitalization in our societies and economies. Mr Mante described how digital technologies and business models are radically changing competitive dynamics across industries and advocated for a more creative, flexible and heterodox management as the best way to face the these disruptive changes.
The ETA Secretariat thanks all participants and speakers for their attendance in a successful 2nd Autumn Conference. ETA is looking forward to organizing new events in order to engage and enrich the debates on the future of shipping.
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