Germany’s MACS Maritime Carrier Shipping and Hugo Stinnes Schiffahrt have announced a formal merger, combining their operations to create what analysts at Alphaliner say is one of the largest multipurpose (MPP) carriers operating across the Atlantic.

The new unified company, MACS Maritime Carrier Shipping, will operate a fleet of over 15 vessels, calling at more than 20 ports across 16 countries, with headquarters in Hamburg. The move formalises a long-standing partnership between the two companies, which have been sister firms under holding group Vineta since 2017.

“By combining complementary strengths in fleet capabilities, logistics networks, and environmental innovation, MACS will be uniquely positioned to lead the future of sustainable and resilient Trans-Atlantic shipping,” the companies said in a statement.

The merger, which takes effect immediately, will also lead to the closure of Stinnes’ Rostock office by year-end, with all operations fully consolidated under the MACS brand.