Who we are
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We see ourselves as true merchants, committed to long-lasting relationships, deep professional expertise, and with a healthy dose of entrepreneurial spirit and humor.
A global and diverse family
Capturing the essence of who we truly are is like trying to bottle the wind – complex, dynamic, and deeply intertwined with the diversity that defines us. Spread across three continents, 18 offices and logistics centers, our organization thrives on the energy of 25 nationalities working seamlessly across time zones, cultures, and disciplines. From the broker in Hamburg to the truck operator in Liepāja, and the freight trader, systems developer, or office manager in Copenhagen, each role weaves a unique thread into the rich tapestry of our shared story. This diversity maybe is the essence of who we are.
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Our founders
A second-generation family-owned group
It all began in 1977, when Torben Christensen founded the brokerage company Copenhagen Merchants. Driven by a determination to make a difference, he built the company step by step, turning it into a significant player in the international commodity industry.
In 2016, the second generation of the Christensen family formally took over. Under Simon Rodian Christensen's leadership, with the support of his sister, Copenhagen Merchants has continued to grow, further advancing the company’s development.
Defining Moments in Our History
First Terminal investment
1984
Copenhagen Merchants, in partnership with Fredericia Shipping, invests in its first Agri-bulk terminal.
Inspection Company established
2000
Copenhagen Merchants establishes the survey and inspection company Euro Cargo Services (ECS).
Simon Christensen starts
2003
After earning a master’s degree in Finance from Copenhagen Business School and gaining experience at Danske Private Equity and Cargill in Germany, Simon joins Copenhagen Merchants.
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First International Broker Hub
2006
Copenhagen Merchants establishes the first of its now seven international brokerage entities in Madrid, Spain.
First investment in Shipping
2008
Copenhagen Merchants and Fredericia Shipping jointly acquire Schultz Shipping, each owning 50%.
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CM Biomass is founded
2009
Copenhagen Merchants creates CM Biomass by separating its biomass trading activities.
Entering the Plant-Based Protein sector
2013
An investment in Aarhus Bulk Terminal marks the start of the 'Plant-Based Proteins adventure'.
Torben retires from day-to-day business
2016
After 39 years dedicated to his life’s work, Torben steps back from daily operations but continues to contribute as a member of the company board.
CM Navigator platform is born
2018
Copenhagen Merchants initiates development of the agri-commodities platform, CM Navigator.
Navi Merchants founded
2021
The chartering business grows into a company of its own – Navi Merchants is born.
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Our Culture
Meet T.W. Heart
At Copenhagen Merchants, we work hard to cultivate a culture that attracts and retains talented individuals from around the world. To bring this vision to life, we’ve created a character who embodies everything we stand for. Say hello to T.W. Heart—our very own octopus.
The name T.W. Heart stands for Trust We Heart, because trust is our core basis for successful action. Why an octopus, you ask? Well, it’s not just one of the smartest creatures in the sea, capable of solving complex problems—it also has a playful side. It can change shape and color in the blink of an eye. And each of its eight arms has its own “mini brain,” allowing it to think, feel, and even taste independently. And if that wasn’t enough, it boasts not one, but three hearts.
For us, T.W. Heart represents a culture of excellence, decentralized decision-making, adaptability and a deep appreciation for both curiosity and care, intelligence and playfulness.
Our Mantra
Growing Together
To us, “Growing Together” is the basis of everything we do. It’s our mantra for how we evolve as company and as a family of customers, JV partners and team members.
Underlying this commitment we operate according to a core set of values which altogether define who we are: trust, integrity, curiosity, loyalty, passion, agility, empowerment, and not least a good sense of humor.
For those who feel we fall short of these values, we hope they have the courage and willingness to hold us accountable. We’re not afraid of feedback!
In the CM Family
Brokerage
Copenhagen Merchants offers end to end customized agri-brokerage services. Today more than 30 professionals from 7 hubs facilitate trading and execution worldwide.
Shipping
Navi Merchants specializes in coaster to handysize vessels in the Atlantic. Major newbuilding program initiated to complement the current +40 vessels in own and JV pools.
Digital
CM Navigator provides daily updates on grain markets, live bids and offers, lineups, instant freight rates for over +250K routes and more.
Plant Protein
Our facility, Aarhus Protein, manufactures sustainable feed and food ingredients from faba beans and other pulses. Our processes include dehulling, spray drying, and packaging.
Terminals & Logistics
11 modern port terminals across Denmark, Sweden, Poland, and Latvia in partnerships with trusted partners. Total bulk storage capacity exceeding 700,000 MT.