IBM and A.P. Moller - Maersk A/S today announced the extension of their agreement for IBM to provide information technology (IT) hosting and support services for A.P. Moller - Maersk, until 2014. The new agreement builds on IBM's successful delivery track record and extends the use of IBM's Global Delivery Model.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090416/IBMLOGO )

IBM's Global Delivery Model is a standard offering from IBM for the provision of IT services. IBM has access to the world's largest experienced services skills pool in 173 countries. The offering involves IBM converting IT processes into standardized components which can then be performed on standard tools, and is geographically seamless, based on cost and availability of talent.

"Our transition to IBM's Global Delivery Model has been seamless while delivering the financial and service level benefits expected. This extension now is a natural next step and provides a sound foundation for further improvements, our aim being to provide the A.P. Moller - Maersk group of companies with cost effective IT solutions," says Adam Gade, Chief Information Officer, Maersk Line.

The A.P. Moller - Maersk group owns one of the world's largest shipping companies and has operations in 130 countries. The group also offers a wide range of services within the shipbuilding, energy, retail and manufacturing industries.

"The capabilities evident in IBM's global delivery centers are a key differentiator, allowing IBM to deliver services and support to clients like Maersk by harnessing infrastructure, standardized processes, service management tools and skilled resources. IBM is committed to supporting Maersk in their drive to continuously get more out of their IT investments and this contract is an important step in that direction," says Andrew Stubbs, IBM General Manager, A.P. Moller - Maersk Account.

IBM's commitment to building its delivery network is evident in both mature and emerging markets - with key investments in countries including the United States, UK, Ireland, Germany, Poland, Spain, India, China and Denmark.

The new contract was signed in November 2009 and extends a 5 year agreement signed in 2007.

  About IBM
  For more information, visit www.ibm.com/services.




  Media Contacts
  Carsten Groenning
  Media Relations, IBM Denmark
  +45 2880 3516
  cgr@dk.ibm.com

  Tara Sucato
  Media Relations, IBM U.S.
  917-472-3701
  tjsucato@us.ibm.com

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: tjsucato@us.ibm.com

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090416/IBMLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.orgq/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

SOURCE: IBM