London Gateway, celebrating its 10-year anniversary, is set to unveil its new fourth berth later this summer. This £350 million project will increase the port’s capacity by a third and mark a significant milestone in port technology and sustainability. The new berth will be the world’s first all-electric berth, utilizing advanced technology such as electric straddle carriers and automated stacking cranes, which aligns with DP World’s vision for full electrification by 2050.
The increased capacity at London Gateway offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it will enhance trade efficiency by facilitating quicker turnaround times for ships, reducing congestion, and improving overall trade flow. This is particularly crucial for maintaining the smooth movement of goods in and out of the UK, especially post-Brexit. Additionally, the expansion is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including job creation and increased business opportunities within the logistics and supply chain sectors.
Driving Sustainability and Economic Growth
From a sustainability perspective, the all-electric berth represents a pioneering step in reducing the environmental footprint of port operations. The use of electric straddle carriers and automated stacking cranes will decrease reliance on fossil fuels, significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative positions DP World as a leader in sustainable port operations, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
Andrew Bowen (chief operating officer for UK Ports & Terminals at DP World) highlights the success of the Modal Shift Programme (MSP) at DP World Southampton as a complementary initiative to the developments at London Gateway. Since its launch in September 2023, the MSP has significantly increased the proportion of freight moved by rail, reducing carbon emissions by approximately 4,500 tonnes. The introduction of new train services has played a pivotal role in this shift, underscoring DP World’s commitment to sustainability.
These advancements are integral to DP World’s end-to-end logistics offerings, enhancing resilience and flexibility for customers. The integration of cutting-edge technology not only boosts operational efficiency but also sets a new standard for ports worldwide. By improving supply chain resilience, the enhanced capacity at London Gateway will make it easier to handle disruptions and fluctuations in trade volumes, a critical factor in today’s global economy.
The new fourth berth at London Gateway is more than just an expansion; it is a strategic enhancement that underscores DP World’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. This development not only benefits DP World but also strengthens the broader logistics and supply chain industry, setting a new benchmark for port operations globally.
To further support these advancements, the implementation of supply chain visibility software is crucial. Providing real-time data insights, this technology assists Beneficial Cargo Owners (BCOs) and Logistic Service Providers (LSPs)in making business-critical decisions. By leveraging these insights, stakeholders can effectively counteract impacts on their respective supply chains, ensuring smoother operations and greater adaptability in a dynamic market environment. This focus on visibility and real-time data underscores the comprehensive approach DP World is taking to not only enhance operational capacity and sustainability but also to empower its customers with the tools needed for effective supply chain management.