Torvald Klaveness 2016–2026: Digitalization, decarbonization and re-definition
As Klaveness entered its eighth decade, the direction set during the previous period began to take shape. The combination carrier business prepared to enter new markets, digital initiatives moved closer to customers, and the foundations of the Klaveness business we know today was beginning to emerge. Over the next ten years, many of these initiatives ...
In 2016, Torvald Klaveness embarked on a new decade focused on digitalization, decarbonization, and re-defining its business model. The company's combination carrier business, which had been preparing to enter new markets since the previous period, began to take shape. Over the next ten years, many of these initiatives would evolve into separate businesses.
In 2018, Klaveness Combination Carriers became a separate entity and started trading on the Norwegian stock exchange, providing a dedicated platform for this business. That same year, KCC set out to expand the concept into clean petroleum products with the launch of MV Baru, the first of eight CLEANBU vessels to enter service. The CLEANBUs extended the combination carrier concept into new trades while the original CABU business continued to develop.
Simultaneously, Klaveness embarked on an ambitious energy efficiency project to improve the carbon footprint of its fleet and solidify its position as a global leader in low-carbon shipping. The decade concluded with the delivery of three third-generation CABU vessels in 2026, marking the latest evolution of the concept. Klaveness Digital was formed in 2017, initially centered around the CargoValue commercial software platform, which helped industrial customers optimize their seaborne supply chains.
This single solution eventually grew into a broader digital business that developed and commercialized tools to assist customers in making better decisions and improving supply chain performance. In the dry bulk segment, Klaveness increased its focus on long-term partnerships, innovative pool solutions, and data-driven commercial decisions.
This strategy was reinforced in 2020 through a partnership with Marubeni Corporation to operate the Baumarine Panamax pool, which later saw Marubeni acquire a 25% stake in Klaveness Dry Bulk in 2023. Klaveness also streamlined its portfolio by selling certain activities and forming new partnerships. To support this shift, a dedicated investment team and holding structure were established to actively own and nurture the group's businesses.
Rather than being a single entity pursuing various activities, Klaveness gradually transformed into a group of focused businesses, each contributing to its unique role within the company. The shared goal of finding ways to create value for customers and enhance the efficiency of seaborne trade connected all these businesses. As Klaveness looks ahead to its next decade, it will continue to evolve its trading efficiency concept, leveraging deep maritime expertise, innovative shipping solutions, and digital capabilities to build more resilient, decarbonized, and cost-effective supply chains.
Written by urgent.news from Hellenic Shipping News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.