In 1947 the Italian Republic was just a year old; it would be another year before Anna C would set sail on the first Costa cruise; and shipping agency Medov opened its doors, firmly staking its place in the growing cruise industry. Seventy years later, the Genoa, Italy-based shipping services agency has expanded and diversified to become one of the leading shipping and travel agency service providers in the cruise and cargo business in Italy and France, and a major logistics company operating from North America to Singapore.
Medov's rapid diversification began following its acquisition in 2004 by the Genoese Schenone family, which led to the company's expansion into nearly all areas of passenger and cargo shipping. Today, Medov's services include port agency, travel agency, shore excursions, ground operations, ship chandlering, cabotage, heavy-lift chartering, newbuildings and shipyards assistance, and marine salvage.
"Medov's success and longevity can largely be attributed to our ability to create value for our customers by leveraging our industry knowledge and our network of strategic business partners," said Giulio Schenone, chairman and CEO of Medov. "Celebrating our 70th anniversary this year is an exciting milestone, and our ongoing commitment to anticipating our customers' unique requirements and expectations will enable us to continue to grow and achieve success in all segments of shipping."
Logistics services, which span from North America and Europe to Singapore, include ocean, air and land freight forwarding; marine brokerage; customs; dry docks and newbuilds; and special projects. Medov's travel agency services cover shore excursions, including exclusive tours in Italy and France; and the Rome Express train.
Continuing its two-generation record of innovation, in January 2017 Medov launched CostaMed Ship Services, a ground-breaking port agency joint venture with Costa Group, the Genoa-based parent company of Costa Cruises and AIDA Cruises. Headquartered in Savona, Italy, CostaMed Ship Services will handle more than 1,100 Costa Group vessels in 26 ports in Italy and France during 2017.
"Medov understands how important high-quality services are to staying competitive and expanding in today's market," said Massimo Mensurati, general manager of Medov. "By taking a proactive approach to finding solutions for our customers, being available 24/7 and being able to scale our capabilities as needed, over two generations we have solidified our company’s position as a leader in shipping services."
As part of its 70th anniversary celebration, Medov is planning several special events throughout 2017 that will be announced at a later date.