DP World’s first Atlas Service arrives in the UK from Morocco
LONDON: DP World’s first ever Atlas service has arrived at London Gateway, revolutionising fresh produce logistics between Morocco, the UK and Europe.
The maiden service, which is also bound for DP World-owned terminal Antwerp Gateway, berthed at London Gateway on 1 December. This new dedicated sea route will transform the way fruit and vegetables are transported to the UK and Europe – delivering fresher produce faster and at lower cost, while slashing carbon emissions by up to 70%.
By shifting up to 150,000 tonnes of fresh produce annually from road to sea, the service offers a scalable, sustainable logistics solution that reduces emissions by up to 250kg CO₂/ton-km.
Rashid Abdulla, MD and CEO of DP World Europe, said: “The launch of our first Atlas service from Agadir marks a major step forward in sustainable logistics. This tailor-made solution combines speed, reliability and digital transparency to deliver better quality produce to retailers and consumers – while helping our customers meet climate goals.”
Each weekly sailing will transport tomatoes, blueberries, peppers and citrus from Morocco’s key growing regions to UK and EU retail networks.
Unlike traditional trucking routes that span over 3,000km the Atlas service ensures a smoother, safer journey for produce. The use of DP World’s Unifeeder vessels and 1,250 brand new 40’ high cube refrigerated containers (reefers) guarantees freshness and condition upon arrival.
To support the service, DP World has invested in 1,000 x 40’ high-cube and 750 x 20’ dry containers, ensuring capacity for both fresh and general cargo. Full visibility is provided via a state-of-the-art digital platform, offering true end-to-end supply chain transparency. The southbound service sails from London Gateway to Antwerp Gateway on to Casablanca and back to Agadir.
Morocco currently exports over 1.1 million metric tonnes of fruit and vegetables annually to Western Europe, with volumes growth expected at more than 10% year-on-year. The Atlas service is designed to meet this rising demand while supporting Morocco’s position as a leading exporter of high-quality produce.
Ben Coleman MP, UK Trade Envoy to Kingdom of Morocco and Francophone West Africa, said: “I welcome the introduction of this maritime link between the UK and Morocco, which is a clear signal of our shared ambition to deepen trade ties. Developing new trade routes is an important part of the UK Government’s growth agenda. This service will strengthen supply chains and unlock export opportunities for UK and Moroccan businesses.”
Claus Larner, Vice President, Perishables, at DP World, said: “Morocco’s export sector is booming but road transport limits its potential. The Atlas Service underlines DP World’s long-term commitment to Morocco and our customers. By integrating ports, ships and digital platforms, we’re creating an unbroken supply chain from field to shelf.”
Built around fixed berthing windows and dedicated reefer capacity, the Atlas Service ensures day-certain arrivals in the UK and Antwerp. Exporters benefit from pre-booked inspection slots, reefer plug-ins and guaranteed terminal access, while importers enjoy streamlined customs and inland logistics from DP World’s terminals.