Slow steaming or full throttle: a stakeholder's point of view

Slow steaming is an efficient way of reducing fuel consumption and related costs. Slow steaming is not simply a matter of reducing speed. It has far reaching consequences and affects supply chains. Current available research mainly focuses on the mathematical aspects of slow steaming. This research reveals stakeholders‟ attitudes and motivations for slow steaming. Slow steaming is considered to be a social phenomenon and a qualitative approach was applied. A content analysis was conducted on articles selected from a global news source. The factor time was taken into account by comparing results with the findings of prior research. While only a small number of samples were used the research resulted in a rich picture of slow steaming from a stakeholder‟s point of view. Slow steaming is used by different sectors and types of ships. However, container shipping companies are particularly well represented. Container ships are indicated to have a relatively large demand for energy. The results show that the major motivation for applying slow steaming is to reduce fuel consumption and related costs. Environmental benefits are also mentioned but are mainly considered to be subordinate. These findings are consistent with earlier research from 2010. Initial caution which related to the technical implications of slow steaming have changed into concerns related to the impact of slow steaming on supply chains. It is indicated that slow steaming to a certain limit does not cause engine damage and requires only minor modifications. The findings also show that slow steaming varies with fuel prices and freight rates. An increasing number of stakeholders expect that slow steaming is here to stay. However, this may indicate that stakeholders have restrained expectations of the development of fuel prices and freight rates in the near future. Still, this may emphasise the point that slow steaming is worth studying.Business Schoo