The story of the Star
It would be impossible to tell the story of A.P. Moller – Maersk without also telling the story of the white seven-pointed star. The iconic logo has been part of Maersk’s heritage since before the company was even founded, and is a symbol of family and fortune that has endured for over 130 years.
Captain Peter Mærsk Møller, early in his career, worked for an English shipowner, often accompanied by his wife, Anna. On one voyage, when Anna fell gravely ill, Peter prayed for her recovery, asking for a sign.
A single star appeared in the sky, and Anna soon recovered. In 1886, Peter bought his first steamship, LAURA, and marked its funnel with a white star on a blue background as a tribute to Anna. In a letter, he described the star as a symbol of faith and answered prayers.
The little star on the funnel is a reminder of the evening I prayed for you so dejectedly and anxiously, asking for the sign that I might see a star in the grey, overcast sky, a reminder that the Lord hears our prayers. Peter Mærsk Møller
From St. Petersburg to Svendborg
Years later, Peter and his son A.P. Møller discussed creating a steamship company, leading to the founding of the Steamship Company Svendborg in 1904. Peter’s star naturally became the company’s house flag. As A.P. Møller sought to expand the fleet, he founded the Steamship Company of 1912, ensuring the star remained tied to Maersk’s growing fleet.
The evolution of an icon
The white star became Maersk’s emblem, evolving over the years. The first official logo was introduced in 1928 for the Maersk Line, serving routes between the U.S. and Asia. In the 1970s, Danish designer Acton Bjørn modernized the logo, which first appeared on Maersk Air planes in 1972 before expanding across the brand.
A symbol of legacy and future
Today, the Maersk star represents both the company’s heritage and its future, embodying the values passed down through generations and guiding Maersk into the years ahead.
A.P. Moller – Maersk
Read the full story here.
For more news about Maersk, click here.
