Our Way 2/22 1
TEXT SOFIA LUNDGREN PHOTO JOHAN PERSSON, ABBA VOY
AGE ABBA VOYAGE X OCEANBIRD Breaking conventions – together S ince news broke in spring 2022 about the partnership between Oceanbird and the ABBA Voyage show in London, the publicity has been astonishing. In just May and June, ABBA and Oceanbird were mentioned in editorial articles with a total potential reach of 288 million people. When negotiations on the two sides working together started, neither party knew exactly what the outcome would be, but so far the results have exceeded all expectations. “This partnership is very important,” says Richard Jeppsson, VP Commercial Partnerships Wallenius Lines. “Not only has it piqued interest in Oceanbird, but it’s also raising awareness on the importance of marine transportation and the sustainability work being undertaken right now. Thanks to the publicity, many people wish to learn more about the Oceanbird concept, and we’ve also had inquiries from several potential customers.” WALLENIUS, WHICH DEVELOPED the Oceanbird concept, is the exclusive logistics partner to ABBA Voyage in a partnership, that’s due to last at least four years. A lot has already happened within the partnership, with two working groups up and running. The Sustainable Sub-committee deals with On the face of it, ABBA and the Oceanbird concept have little in common. However, whether it’s making epoch-defining music or breaking new ground in sustainable transport, both can be rightfully considered ground breakers. sustainability communication for the ABBA Voyage production, optimising energy for the arena as well as looking forward. Electric transportation to and from the arena in London and biodiversity compensation are two of many areas of interest. Meanwhile, the Humanitarian Sub-committee has already made donations to Médecins Sans Frontières, UNCHR (the UN Refugee Agency) and the Swedish Red Cross in Ukraine and is now looking into which causes to fund next. “Our goal is to facilitate this highly successful production to run as smoothly and sustainably as possible, and at the same time to keep raising awareness in ocean shipping. As it is the form of transport for global trade accounting for around 90% of traded goods, its impact on the climate is significant,” says Richard. Benny Andersson ABBA WHETHER MAKING MUSIC or protecting the planet, ABBA Voyage and Oceanbird are hitting the right note, according to Benny Andersson of ABBA: “I believe we must be at the forefront of what music and entertainment can be with ABBA Voyage, and it is extremely pleasing to be able to see it all happen with Oceanbird and Wallenius, who are as keen on sustainability as we are,” Benny says. Read more about the partnership here! OUR WAY 2/2022 9