2024-07-18
Jönsson Nova offer services in forwarding and as ship agents and have been a customer of Port of Norrköping for over 80 years. Peter Anderson, CEO of Jönsson Nova, who himself has a long history within the company, answers a few questions.
What has changed during the 40 years you’ve worked in the company?
“The biggest change, as for many others, is digitalization. Where previously several contacts were required for each vessel call, communication with various authorities is now integrated through the Swedish Maritime Administration’s ‘Maritime Single Window.’ Ships have become larger and calls fewer, which has led to smaller tonnage virtually disappearing altogether. Another change is consolidation in the industry, resulting in fewer but larger companies, where remote clearance has become more common. But our role as a ship agent in the port is still fundamentally the same – to represent the shipping line.”
What are your opportunities and challenges?
“Our strength lies in our broad knowledge and experience in forwarding. We have a local presence. Our employees are skilled, and we can offer smart and sustainable logistics solutions. Our long-standing presence in the industry has given us an extensive network, both nationally and internationally.
One challenge as a freight forwarder is to get customers to choose the most sustainable transport option – price still tends to be the deciding factor. Another challenge for the entire industry is adapting to new regulations, such as EU customs rules, CSRD, and emissions trading. These will mean major changes for all stakeholders.”
What does Port of Norrköping do well?
“Our main focus is still Norrköping, and it is very important for us as a local player to have a good cooperation with the port. Our employees are in daily contact with the port, and it works very well. Port of Norrköping has a qualified workforce and has developed efficient working methods.”
What could the Port of Norrköping do better?
“I would like to see more shifts and/or extended regular opening hours for ship handling. Our owners have invested in environmentally efficient vessels in environmental class A, which has earned us an environmental rebate from the state. In general, we would like to see the same ambition from the ports; today, only a few offer this.”
Facts about Jönsson Nova:
Handles around 700 ship calls annually in Sweden
Forwards approximately 2.5 million tons of goods
Eight employees at the Norrköping office
