New U.S. Lines plans transpacific service

New U.S. Lines plans transpacific service    A company whose ownership comprising ocean container line veterans said it plans to launch a new transpacific service with an old industry name, U.S. Lines.
   The ownership group purchased the U.S. Lines name to use for its new fixed-day weekly service between Shekou, China; Hong Kong and Long Beach, Calif. Starting at the end of the year.
   USL said it aims to be a 'reliable, low-cost, focused market operator,' and 'a viable alternative to the large lines in the rapidly growing market between Southern China and Southern California.'
   The company is headed by Ed Aldridge, as president and chief executive officer. Aldridge, a 29-year industry veteran, was chief operating officer of APL, and a long-time veteran of Sea-Land Service.
   The company has formed a strategic partnership with KNS Agencies, Aldridge said.
   Kevin Kroft is chief financial officer. He was director and chief financial officer of Australia-New Zealand Direct Line. Bob Beilin, former senior vice president with ANZDL, is senior vice president, operating services. Stephen Aldridge is senior vice president, sales and marketing. He was vice president of sales, North America for Wan-Hai Lines, and was formerly with TPL and 'K' Line. Nicholas Hay has been named senior vice president. He was vice president of transpacific for APL, and held positions with OOCL and Seatrain Lines. Asa Chen, managing director of Asia, was general manager, sales West Coast for Wan-Hail Lines. Tim Dillon, former vice president of pricing for Wan-Hai, is vice president, commercial services.