Happy New Year 2025!

As the year comes to a close and preparations begin to welcome the new year, we cannot help but look back at all that has unfolded over the past 12 months.  

Reflecting on a Year of Achievements
Numerous projects—delivered to every corner of the globe—have shaped SFT’s business over the past year. These remarkable undertakings highlight the dedication and skills of our teams:

At the Capurro Fishing Terminal in Uruguay, we delivered one of the largest orders of the year with over 350 fender systems. Our customized solutions also ensured safe and efficient berthing at the Port of Sheerness, UK, with nine custom-built Pile Fenders blending heritage with innovation; while in Sweden, 12 Pile Fenders supported the expansion of the Port of Trelleborg, ensuring the port remains prepared for future demands.

In Tonga, over 50 customized fender systems were delivered as part of a significant port modernization project, showcasing ShibataFenderTeam’s Pacific expertise. Meanwhile, the large refurbishment at the Port of Rostock, Germany, saw the installation of 59 Cone Fenders, with the steel components manufactured at our own facility in Rechlin, Germany, emphasizing the importance of a local manufacturing approach. Finally, at Muelle del Bicentenario in Callao, Peru, 22 Cone Fenders now protect this flagship terminal, designed to accommodate the world’s largest vessels. These achievements are just a glimpse of the progress we have made in 2025.

Leading A Year of Knowledge Sharing: PIANC Fender Guidelines 2024
The release of the PIANC Fender Guidelines 2024 was another highlight of the year, marking a major update for the marine industry after more than two decades. To support the transition, ShibataFenderTeam organized a series of seminars, drawing over 600 attendees from leading engineering firms, port authorities, and universities. Led by WG 211 members Dominique Polte and Eduardo Rodero, along with other industry experts, these sessions offered practical, in-depth insights into the new guidelines, reinforcing SFT commitment to industry leadership and education.

A Milestone to Remember
However, we cannot finish this summary of the year without referring to a significant milestone. The groundbreaking ceremony in June for our new manufacturing facility in Valencia, Spain, represents one of the most impactful events of 2024. This €7 million investment will double SFT’s production capacity for foam fenders, with additional dedicated spaces for molding HD-PE and steelworks. Strategically located just 25 minutes from the Port of Valencia, the facility is expected to create 30 new jobs and enhances service to our clients.

    

Set to be fully operational in the first quarter of 2025, this new facility strengthens ShibataFenderTeam's ability to meet the growing demands of global markets while reaffirming our commitment to growth, innovation, and exceptional quality. We look forward to shipping out the first fender to our valued clients in 2025.

Looking Ahead
As we step into 2025,  the ShibataFenderTeam Group looks forward to continuing to deliver customized, high-quality fender solutions and collaborating with partners around the world. Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to a successful New Year ahead!