Container volume growth at DP World’s UK operations–London Gateway and Southampton set new records in 2022

LONDON : Volume growth in the UK for DP World was led by its London Gateway terminal, which reported a 14% annual increase in volumes to 2.05m teu in 2022. The terminal broke the 2m teu barrier for the first time and became the UK’s second largest container terminal, taking the spot from Southampton.

Volumes at Southampton eased during 2022, falling to 1.8m teu from 1.87m in 2021 according to DP World figures. Southampton faced adverse weather in 2022, and some ship arrivals scheduled for 2022 slipped to 2023.

Overall UK volumes for the global port operator were up 5% and set a new record of 3.85m teu, up from 3.68m teu in 2021.

Ernst Schulze, UK Chief Executive of DP World, said: “We help trade flow across the globe and this outstanding performance shows our ability to deliver on our commitment to boost growth, support businesses, create jobs and improve living standards in the UK.”

“Within a decade, London Gateway is likely to be handling up to 30% of the country’s containerised trade. Its port-centric logistics park will be one of the largest in Europe, employing 12,000 people and underpinned by investment in a second rail terminal and a new fourth berth.”

DP World is currently constructing a fourth berth at London Gateway, a £350m project which is forecast to boost capacity by one third and scheduled to be completed in Q4 2024.

“At Southampton, we are investing to future-proof the port by improving its infrastructure and introducing warehousing facilities for our customers. We are committed to expanding its capacity as well as making it one of Britain’s most sustainable ports,” said Shulze.