DP WORLD INVESTS £340M IN NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE
DP World’s two UK ports handled a record volume of cargo in 2021, after the provider of smart logistics solutions met growing customer demand with major investments in capability and capacity.
During the 12 month period, DP World’s port-centric logistics hub at London Gateway saw throughput of 1,804,871 TEU, a 15 per cent increase on the previous annual record set last year. At DP World Southampton, Britain’s second largest container terminal, throughput in the 12 month period was 1,871,081 TEU, which contributed to a record combined UK total of 3,675,952 TEU.
DP World – which operates ports, terminals and logistics businesses on six continents – announced last year a further £300m investment in a new fourth berth at London Gateway on top of the ongoing £40m invested at Southampton. Globally, the company reported strong financial results for the six months to 30 June 2021, with EBITDA growing 18.2 per cent year-on-year.
Ernst Schulze, Chief Executive of DP World in the UK, said: “These record UK numbers underline the fact that we have the capacity and capability to continue delivering first class services for all existing customers whilst expanding customer choice by handling new sailings. We also plan to continue our investment in rail interconnectivity at both hubs, easing congestion on the roads. Already, 30 percent of containers at the Port of Southampton are moved by rail – the highest proportion in the UK.”
“We believe in the UK market and have the ambition and the resources to boost growth, support businesses, create jobs and improve living standards. By focusing on solving complex logistical challenges for our customers, we aim to be a partner in their business success, providing fast reliable and flexible links to international supply chains and markets.”
Strong throughput from existing customers and the arrival of six new major international shipping services at the two terminals drove the 2021 performance. Imports and exports through London Gateway and Southampton included automotive parts, white goods and household furniture, as consumers spent more on physical products during the pandemic, while foodstuffs remained important in the overall cargo mix. Southampton and London Gateway have both been awarded freeport status as part of Solent Freeport and Thames Freeport respectively, further cementing the critical role of both locations in the UK’s international trade.
