Maersk to Cut 15% of Corporate Staff in 2026 as Cost Pressures Mount

16.02.2026

Danish shipping giant Maersk has announced plans to reduce its corporate workforce by approximately 1,000 positions, equivalent to around 15% of office-based staff. The move is expected to generate annual savings of about $180 million.

The layoffs will affect the company’s headquarters as well as regional and national offices and form part of a broader effort to streamline organizational structures and reinforce financial discipline. Maersk confirmed that all required notification and consultation procedures have been initiated.

In 2025, Maersk’s revenue declined by $1.5 billion to $54.0 billion, primarily due to pressure on ocean freight rates. The impact was partially offset by stronger performance in terminals and logistics services. EBITDA reached $9.5 billion, EBIT stood at $3.5 billion, and net profit totaled $2.9 billion, reflecting the sharp downturn in ocean segment profitability.

Looking ahead to 2026, Maersk projects underlying EBITDA in the range of $4.5–7.0 billion, with global container market growth expected at 2–4%. The company noted that geopolitical tensions, disruptions in the Red Sea, and new trade tariffs continue to create a complex and cost-intensive operating environment, requiring ongoing adjustments to its business model.

Founded in 1904, Maersk is one of the world’s largest container shipping and integrated logistics companies. It is publicly listed, with a controlling stake held by A.P. Moller Holding on behalf of the Møller family, while the remaining shares are publicly traded.