Hamburg Süd (Hamburg) and Andrew Weir shipping (UK) have reached agreement on the takeover of Andrew Weir's "Deep Sea" liner services by Hamburg Süd.

This takeover comprises the liner services to the Eastern Mediterranean, Israel, India/Pakistan and East Africa. These services will continue to be managed from London under the well-known brand name "Ellerman".

Hamburg Süd will take over the staff employed for the liner services as well as the container equipment.

Transfer of the operations to Hamburg Süd is planned for 1 January 2003.

This acquisition will further strengthen Hamburg Süd's position as a leading North/South carrier.