Eurofos, France

France, like the rest of the European Union, was badly hit by the 2008 economic crisis that still dampens overall growth. The key focus for Fos now is on recovering and increasing its market share. The biggest challenges are rebuilding its partnership with shipping lines and boosting future expansion.

Eurofos has recently added 12 new diesel-electric Kalmar straddle carriers to replace some older machines and pave the way for future growth. The new straddle carriers will help to develop and modernise operations. The order also included the SmartFleet process automation solution.

Nicolas Gauthier, CEO of Eurofos, says, “Kalmar is a key player in the industry and has an excellent reputation for sustainable, efficient performance and high operational safety. The new electric straddle carriers will provide our employees with an even safer and more comfortable working environment. Expanding and renewing our fleet with the best solutions available is an important part of our plans for future growth and will ensure that we can continue to provide our customers with high productivity and quality of service.”

Since 2012, the Port of Fos has registered strong growth in its market share. In 2014, the throughput rose for the fifth consecutive year. PortSynergy/Eurofos welcomed eight new clients in the last year and a half.

“Thanks to the investments and the reorganisation of the Port, operations have grown and market share is improving. The twelve new straddle carriers will help to underpin the development and modernisation of operations at PortSynergy/Eurofos.”