Hurtigruten, the Norwegian company that operates exploration type cruises and a daily service between Bergen and Kirkenes, says it is reorganising and streamlining its corporate and Sales Nordic operations. Annual savings of more than NOK 60 million is expected, with full effect from 2014. ”The change is carried out in order to secure a sustainable profitable company and to ensure the right use of available resources at a time when the international markets are challenging,” the company said in a statement.
Several changes in the overall structure and working methods will take place:
· General staff reductions within administrative functions
· Centralising activities to a new corporate centre in Tromsø and phasing out of the current operations in Narvik, transfer of duties and personnel to the corporate centre
· Organisation designed to give much more focus to the company's commercial operations
· Increased focus and commitment to hotel and restaurant operations by competence development and improved services
· Establishment of a dedicated manning company for crew
Proposed change of the Company's head office address is submitted for decision by the Annual General Meeting on 17 April 2013. Hurtigruten's new organisation is planned for implementation on 31 March 2013, and results in a general downsizing of 25-30 per cent. The company will ensure continuity with respect to safe operations and emergency preparedness, and business-critical functions when implementing the new structure. The company will continue the efficiency efforts initiated outside the Nordic countries, including the Svalbard operations. Hurtigruten is also in the process of selling non-strategic assets. Financial effects of these processes will come in addition.
