Mainland's role in company's growth

The past 20 years have seen the movement of seaborne goods grow dramatically. Globalisation, increased international trade in finished and semi-finished goods and just-in-time delivery demands continue to drive developments in the international transportation of goods.

As an international provider of seaborne transport services, Danaos Corporation has developed into one of the world's largest containership charter owners. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Danaos is continuing to stay the course in terms of business development and is building on its international reputation as a leader in global shipping.

Established by Dimitri Coustas, an experienced shipping investor, John Coustas, his son, took over as president and CEO in 1987. Since that time the company's fleet has grown from three multipurpose vessels to 62 containerships. Today, the company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and John Coustas is confident of the company's future.

"With Danaos' large containership fleet, we are now well established in the international shipping industry. Since the 1980s, our direct strategy has focused on our strengths and today we benefit from having a significant competitive advantage. We use the latest design innovations and have developed a reputation for safety and reliability within the industry," Coustas says.

The company's hi-tech information systems were developed by Danaos' affiliate software house; Danaos Management Consultants, a recognised world leader in information technology solutions for shipping applications.

Danaos' ability to exploit market opportunities during periods of reduced demand and prices has led to profitable growth throughout the shipping cycle. Danaos has continuously chartered vessels to Maersk, CMA-CGM, Yang Ming, Hanjin, ZIM, MSC, SCI and Hyundai Merchant Marine, and to China Shipping Group and TS Lines.