#3 - The breakthrough

After Kommer Damen takes the helm, he introduces the first standardised vessel: The Pushy Cat. It's a great success and the model sells rapidly, especially abroad. With that growth comes the need for a bigger yard and a larger workforce.While the world economy is suffering from the oil crisis in the 1970s, the ‘new’ Damen starts operating in more and more countries. Kommer sees new opportunities in every new step the company takes, and new types of ships are developed at a rapid pace. Meanwhile, Damen continues to expand its services - from the Middle East to Africa. Meanwhile, back at home, Damen has been out of the picture as a domestic shipbuilder. But that changes when the Dutch shipbuilding industry takes a turn for the worse, and Damen becomes an example of progressiveness.This episode covers the period between 1975 and 1985. Want to know more about this podcast? Check out podcast.damen.com ‘On Course’ is a Damen Shipyards podcast and is produced by audio agency Airborne.

Om Podcasten

How does a tiny company grow to become one of the worlds biggest shipbuilders? In On Course, we follow the unique history of Damen Shipyards Group. At one time the company was nothing more than a wooden shed on the banks of the Merwede River, run by a couple of handy young men. The company now has a global presence and builds virtually every conceivable model of ship.The key figure in this story is Kommer Damen. With his revolutionary vision and entrepreneurial spirit, he set up the company at a time when the world was changing rapidly: from the oil crisis in the 1970s to the fall of the Berlin Wall.In ‘On Course’, Kommer Damen talks extensively about the rich history of this family business for the first time. In addition, many others speak about Damen’s turbulent growth, but also about developments within the shipping industry and the global economy. ‘On Course’ is a 6-part podcast series; a special story about headwind and perseverance, about daring and doing.Liever luisteren in het Nederlands? Prefer to listen in Dutch? Please note that the original version of this show is Dutch and available under the name 'Op Koers'. Want to find out more? Check out podcast.damen.com‘On Course’ is a Damen Shipyards podcast and is produced by audio agency Airborne.