Shipping companies, especially those operating in global shipping markets, represent an exciting subject of study. They are complex organizations tasked with functioning in a complex and dynamic business environment that transcends geographical borders.

The globalized shipping industry, although conservative in its structure and fundamental characteristics, adapts impressively to modern demands. Diversity, digitization, decarbonization, new strategic approaches for development, networking, resilience, flexibility, sustainability, and social responsibility are some of the concepts shaping the agenda of global shipping.

The aim of the book is to provide as much as possible the framework for understanding the impact of the above on the organization and management of businesses. The book examines the shipping enterprise in relation to the environment in which it operates and the different business models it can implement.

Chapters analyze the company’s operations, its organization and the factors that define it, as well as its segmentation, the human resources on ships and in offices, safety management, outsourcing of functions, and response to social expectations.

The theoretical framework is complemented by case studies and references to successful approaches and practices of bulk shipping and liner shipping companies from Greece and abroad. The goal is for all parts of the book to be developed theoretically and enriched with examples and practical references in a way that the reader understands the interaction between theory and practice.