Competition in niche shipping markets. Τhe case of bitumen
Ανταγωνισμός στις niche ναυτιλιακές αγορές, η περίπτωση της ασφάλτου
Master Thesis
Author
Τυρή, Ραφαέλα
Tyri, Rafaela
Date
2023-04Advisor
Θεοτοκάς, ΙωάννηςTheotokas, Ioannis
View/ Open
Keywords
Bitumen ; Competition ; Niche ; Shipping ; Άσφαλτος ; Ανταγωνισμός ; ΝαυτιλίαAbstract
This paper analyzes the way competition is shaped in niche shipping markets. Studying the competition is fundamental for business performance in every industry. In this paper, niche markets are defined and examples from the shipping industry are demonstrated. The strategic planning of shipping companies is examined and the competitive strategies that are formed by ship management companies, are evaluated. A case study of one niche market in the shipping industry, the transportation of bitumen in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, is tested.
Existing literature on business competition, niche marketing, and shipping strategies, in particular, was critically reviewed and a case study was conducted for the bitumen market. The analysis argues that niche marketing is beneficial for most small scaled shipping markets. Determining the company’s competitive advantage and using consolidated competitive strategies imply a strong market position. The findings indicate that the bitumen market is a demonstration of a niche market, with distinct characteristics. Companies involved in this market are present in other wet cargo or short-sea shipping markets. The inquiry claims that competition is formed primarily through cost focus strategy and secondarily through differentiation.