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Speedferries from memory was not English! It would not be in anyone's interest for Sea France to close because it would reduce competition and capacity with the likely effect that prices will rise.

David

Quote: Originally posted by crapfisher on 18/2/2009

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Latest update

SeaFrance to axe a third of its workforce

Ferry company could cut 650 jobs

Post last edited on 18/02/2009 11:03:09

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Quote: Originally posted by crapfisher on 18/2/2009

---

Latest update

SeaFrance to axe a third of its workforce

Ferry company could cut 650 jobs

Post last edited on 18/02/2009 11:03:09

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Interesting post from many angles.It is not the "mad summer dash" which keeps the ferry companies gooing, it is the freight. If freight is 25% down, where are the trucks?, and  the true figure may be camoflaged by the tunnel operation coming back to full strength..Drop in trucks means that drop in imports --good,  not out balanced by increase in exports---bad

Must be difficult for ferry companies to balance the books between car and truck traffic. Trucks are 365/24/7, so if they are falling drastically, hence the Sea France scenario.  It would be a surprise if P&O were n't equally effected. Makes for an interesting situation on the short crossing routes. Commercial traffic "has to go" within limits, so if times are bad, prices will be raised to the limit. July /August is a mad surge, and if capacity is reduced, again there is a case to raise prices on a " some will pay"  needs must basis.Makes for an interesting season.

 My guess?   I think it was ValA who said " There may be trouble ahead", and you have to expect the occasional greves, after all it is part of the SNCF tradition. Suspect western routes Brittany Ferries will  carry on regardless, the Bretons are a law unto themselves. Not sure about LD Lines, I think "watch this space". Norfolk Lines seem to have a good operation, and Dunkerque is n't  usually militant. P & O North Sea ? Hmmmm interesting one, massive organisation world wide, must be safe? Hope so, otw we will have to change our plans and go to Butlins.

FM