A global Danish entrepreneurial success
The Foundation was established on 14 May 2007, when shipbroker and founder of Blue Water, Kurt Skov, decided to transfer the majority of the shares of the Blue Water Group to the Foundation as a gift. This was done to secure the long-term ownership.
It all started back in 1972
In 1972, Kurt Skov, who was only 25 years old at the time, decided to establish the best local freight forwarding company offering services and guidance to customers in Esbjerg, Denmark. The goal was to become the best in town.
He named the company Blue Water Shipping after Denmark’s westernmost point, Blåvand, marked with a lighthouse. Blue Water is a direct translation of "Blåvand", and the company has used the lighthouse as a guiding symbol for years.
From local to global
With the intention of being the ‘best in town’ transport company, Blue Water evolved into a leading international organisation over the next decades.
From a small office in Esbjerg, Blue Water now has more than 80 offices worldwide within the business areas of Sea Freight, Air Freight, Road Transport, Oil, Gas & Projects, Port Service, North Atlantic, Reefer Logistics, Renewables and Marine Logistics.
People first
The Blue Water Group was created through collaboration and perseverance. Today, more than 50 years after Kurt Skov opened his first office in Esbjerg, the company is still characterised by strong values such as respect for the individual, personal welfare, trust, and long-term relationships. These values are not just reminiscences of the past; they are a beacon for the future.
Anyone who has ever met Kurt Skov knows that he possesses a unique ability to create trusting relationships between people. From securing major trade agreements all over the world to focusing on new markets, he has spent his entire career skillfully developing his company while creating an inclusive work culture where people always come first.
That is the way it has been since the beginning in 1972 - and how it will remain.
The Blue Water difference
Blue Water is not just a corporate story; it is a family story, and a story about a man, Kurt Skov, who set out to create a strong Danish shipping company that has since become a global organisation with a strong culture. As a foundation, we are proud to pass on Blue Water to future generations, while taking care of each other. That is team spirit and the way we safeguard our unique company.
Timeline
1972
Blue Water Shipping is founded by Kurt Skov
2007
The Blue Water Foundation is established
2022
Anne Skov takes over as chairman of the board
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Blue Water is built on trust and respect. Above all, we look after our colleagues, customers and communities, because this is where our heart lies. Putting people first is the essence of Blue Water.
Anne Skov, Chairman, Blue Water Foundation
