• 1897: H. N. Andersen founds The East Asiatic Company.
• 1900’s: The EAC establishes itself as the largest and most expansive enterprise listed on the Copenhagen Stock Exchange.
• 1912: The EAC’s pioneering ship, Selandia, enters service as the world’s first diesel-powered ocean-going motorship.
• 1930’s: The EAC and its subsidiaries are spread over six continents.
• 1940’s: The EAC employs a global workforce of about 40,000.
• 1951-53: The EAC ship, Jutlandia, is sent to Korea to serve as a floating medical facility (highlighted by Danish musician Kim Larsen in song, “Jutlandia”).
• Until 1974: The EAC is the largest company in Scandinavia.
• 2005: The EAC donates Asia House to the EAC Foundation. In the 2000s, the subsidiaries of EAC are gradually sold to the benefit of shareholders, who receive some of the most substantial dividends in Danish business history.
• Today, Asia House preserves the EAC legacy, showcasing how pioneering approaches can lead to lasting success and global influence. The EAC’s visionary spirit, thinking, and practices were central to its success, shaping Danish business history and offering lessons in resilience and global connectivity.
The EAC serves as an important chapter in global business history with a spirit and purpose that still proves much relevance today: opening Denmark up to Asia and the world at large.
You can delve deeper into the EAC’s story by exploring additional information here and unlock access to six complimentary documentary videos.
Did you know
… That Asia House preserves the distinctive spirit and heritage of The East Asiatic Company (EAC)?
… That the EAC, founded in 1897, was a true “born global” business?
… That the EAC grew more rapidly than any other Danish company before or since, employing more than 17,000 people in 1917?
… That the EAC was the largest company in Scandinavia in the 1970’s and one of the largest shipping companies in the world?
… That the EAC’s founder, H. N. Andersen, was known for his distinctive leadership philosophy aiming to foster a mindset needed
to ensure success and open Denmark up to Asia and the world at large?
At Asia House, our mission is to provide direct access to Asia for Danish business and professionals. We are a neutral and financially independent non-governmental organisation with strong historic ties to Asia. We host events, share information, and connect stakeholders across organisational divides, whether it be private companies, public institutions, business organisations, academia, or individuals. We operate on the philosophy that opportunities arise from synergies.
Our vision is stronger ties between Denmark and Asia, for the mutual benefit of all parties involved. We welcome all initiatives and project ideas that contribute to our vision of stronger ties between Denmark and Asia.
Get updated on Asia House’s projects and events every month.