On 28 November 2024, MSC announced it had finalised the minority stake acquisition – via its subsidiary Port of Hamburg Beteiligungsgesellschaft – in the Hamburg terminal operator Hhla, thus initiating a close partnership with the City of Hamburg for the port's future. The transaction was executed through the transfer of all of Hamburg's Class A shares in Hhla to the new entity, Port of Hamburg Beteiligungsgesellschaft, as part of a capital increase. The City of Hamburg will retain a 50.1% stake in the new company, while MSC Group will hold 49.9%.
In a statement, MSC explained that it is committed to significantly increasing the volume of cargo handled at Hhla's terminals, with a target of reaching a minimum of one million TEU per year by 2031. Furthermore, together with the City of Hamburg, €450 million in equity capital has been allocated to support the necessary investments in the company. A crucial aspect of the agreements is the protection of Hhla employees' rights and the maintenance of the terminals' attractiveness for all market participants.
MSC also announced the construction of its new German headquarters in Hamburg's HafenCity, with plans to employ around 700 people. Construction is expected to commence in 2026, further emphasising the company's commitment to the City of Hamburg and its historic port.
