DPW London and Southampton terminals thrive
DP World’s two ports in UK handled a combined volume of almost 3.7 million teu in 2021. In detail, the London Gateway hub saw throughput of more than 1.8 million teu, a 15% increase on the annual record set last year. DP World Southampton was even above this level, since throughput amounted to 1.87 million teu.
The port, terminal and logistics operator will invest a further GBP 300 million in a new fourth berth at London Gateway, besides the ongoing GBP 40 million invested at Southampton. Ernst Schulze, CEO of DP World in UK, said that “we're planning to continue our investment in rail interconnectivity at both hubs, easing congestion on the roads. 30% of all containers at the port of Southampton are already moved by rail – the highest proportion in the UK.”
Growth was driven by a rising throughput from existing customers and the arrival of six new major international shipping services at the two terminals. Imports and exports through London Gateway and Southampton included automotive parts, white goods and household furniture. Southampton and London Gateway have both been awarded freeport status as part of Solent Freeport and Thames Freeport respectively. (sh)