ABBA Voyage and Wallenius form sustainable partnership

11 May 2022 - Press release

The Swedish shipping company Wallenius, developer of the Oceanbird concept for wind powered vessels, has been confirmed as the official partner for ABBA Voyage. At the revolutionary new concert opening in London on 27th May, ABBA will perform as digital avatars.

“It is extremely pleasing to be able to make it all happen in partnership with Wallenius, who are as keen on sustainability as we are,” says Benny Andersson.

A deep commitment in sustainability made the ABBA members interested in Wallenius’ concept Oceanbird, which makes it possible to significantly reduce emissions from vessels. The parties soon discovered that they shared several joint values and a partnership started to take form.

In the partnership, Wallenius will have status as exclusive logistics provider for ABBA Voyage, in addition to providing support and consultation around sustainability issues. Also, after a longstanding tradition of Wallenius ships being named after operas (such as Tosca, Traviata and Boheme), future ships have the option to be named after ABBA songs. Within the ABBA Arena, the Lounge section will now be named “The Oceanbird Departure Lounge”.

“We are proud to support ABBA Voyage with sustainable logistic solutions. Wallenius has a long history as the forerunner in sustainable shipping. Our joint values and focus on humanitarian aid, combined with the latest technology and digitalization, will lead the way into the future - without losing our history” says Jonas Kleberg, Chairman & CEO Wallenius Lines.
 

Standing together in the forefront
Besides an interest in sustainability, they also share a pioneer spirit. Both parties continuously enter new ground within their respective fields.

ABBA has never been afraid to break conventions, and now – a concert that combines the loved treasures from the past with fresh material performed in a totally unique way. 

With the Oceanbird concept, Wallenius took a radical step towards truly sustainably shipping, using wind as primary energy source for large cargo ships. The wing sails have more in common with airplane wings, using aerodynamic to get the most power out from the wind.

“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 make it all happen in partnership with Oceanbird and Wallenius, who are as keen on sustainability as we are,” says Benny Andersson.