Imagine a small terminal handling just 100,000 TEU annually - how can it transition from manual operations and spreadsheets to efficient, intelligent management? Navis's latest strategic move might hold the key to solving this challenge.
Navis Expands Portfolio with Octopi Acquisition
Navis, the global leader in terminal operating systems (TOS), recently announced its acquisition of Miami-based Octopi, a cloud-based TOS specifically designed for small container and mixed-cargo terminals. This acquisition strengthens Navis's ability to serve terminals of all sizes with comprehensive operational software solutions, accelerating digital transformation for smaller facilities.
Octopi: A Cloud TOS Designed for Small Terminals
The addition of Octopi significantly enhances Navis's capabilities in serving small terminals. Many smaller facilities aspire to modernize operations but face limitations due to inadequate technical infrastructure and expertise for deploying full-featured N4 systems. Octopi fills this market gap perfectly.
Launched in 2015, Octopi is a modern, lightweight cloud-based TOS specifically designed for container and mixed-cargo terminals handling approximately 100,000 TEU annually. Currently deployed across ten terminals in seven countries, Octopi helps clients manage vessel planning, yard operations, cargo tracking, and real-time electronic communication with maritime partners.
Key Advantages of Navis Octopi:
- Cloud-based deployment: Eliminates complex on-premise installations, reducing IT costs and maintenance burdens while enabling rapid implementation.
- Lightweight design: Features an intuitive interface that's easy to operate without specialized IT staff, lowering adoption barriers.
- Comprehensive functionality: Offers complete terminal management capabilities including vessel planning, yard management, cargo tracking, and EDI.
- Real-time communication: Facilitates electronic data exchange with maritime partners, improving transparency and operational coordination.
- Scalability: Adapts flexibly to accommodate terminal growth and evolving operational requirements.
Strategic Focus on the Small Terminal Market
Navis's acquisition of Octopi represents a deliberate strategic move. During due diligence, Navis identified substantial demand for lightweight TOS solutions among small container terminals, bulk terminals, and inland ports. Market research revealed particularly strong demand in the Caribbean, South America, and parts of Northern Europe and North America.
North America alone hosts over 500 terminals meeting Navis's small terminal criteria, with significant potential identified along the Mississippi River, Alaska's coastline, and the Pacific Northwest.
Potential Applications
Octopi's solutions are particularly well-suited for:
- Inland ports: Typically smaller facilities requiring cost-effective, user-friendly TOS solutions.
- Small container terminals: Facilities facing dual pressures of operational efficiency and cost control.
- Mixed-cargo terminals: Operations handling diverse cargo types needing flexible, scalable solutions.
- Coastal terminals: Facilities operating in challenging environments with limited resources.
Future Development
Following the acquisition, Octopi will continue operating from its Miami headquarters under current leadership. The solution will be showcased at Navis World 2019 in San Francisco from March 25-28.
Navis Octopi represents more than software - it embodies a commitment to digital transformation for small terminals. Navis plans continued investment in this market segment, optimizing Octopi's solutions to help smaller facilities compete effectively in an increasingly digital maritime industry.