ABOUT THE COMPANY

Smith Bell's involvement in the shipping business dates to the mid-1800s. As one of the first shipping agencies in the Philippines, it acted as general manager of Compañia Maritima and represented a number of British steamship companies. It subsequently managed four inter-island steamers, as well as a fleet of launches and lighters. Around the same time, Smith Bell also became agent for the Asiatic Petroleum Company, later known as Shell.

In 1986, a joint venture company was formed with Dodwell & Company called Smith Bell Agency Corporation. After several years, both companies mutually decided to pursue separate paths. In 1991, Smith Bell created a wholly owned subsidiary, Smith Bell Shipping, Inc., to exclusively serve its clientele.

In 1995, Smith Bell Corp. entered into a joint venture with Barwil Agencies AS. In 2008, Barwil was acquired by Wilh. Wilhelmsen Limited AS of Norway, giving rise to Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell Shipping, Inc. Wilhelmsen is a well-established international shipping agency with over 120 offices worldwide, actively involved in international liner activities and recognized as a leading operator of ro-ro tonnage. It is also engaged in tankers, bulk carriers, chemical carriers, car carriers, sale and purchase, bunker trading, ship management, and the operation of a large fleet of crew boats.

Today, Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell Shipping, Inc. (WSBSI) represents numerous foreign shipping principals, servicing a wide variety of vessels including reefers, container vessels, bulk carriers, gas carriers, and petroleum tankers. WSBSI serves its principals — both as owners' and charter agents — attending to all their requirements while their vessels and cargoes are in Philippine ports. The company also offers freight forwarding, customs brokering, specialized cargo handling, and chartering services. WSBSI's reputation as a reliable and trustworthy agent is reflected in its long track record and is well recognized across the shipping industry.