Following a record-breaking year for steel imports at the Port of Liverpool, Peel Ports is now looking to focus on growing its presence in the aluminium sector. Tony McDonough reports
Port of Liverpool owner Peel Ports has become the first UK port operator to join the Aluminium Federation (ALFED) as it looks to grow its footprint in metal imports.
In April LBN revealed the Port of Liverpool had seen a record 702,000 tonnes of steel processed on the Mersey in 2024. Imports came in from countries including South Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, Turkey, and other European countries.
Joining ALFED – a non-profit organisation dedicated to representing and supporting the UK aluminium industry – marks a significant step in the group’s efforts to offer capacity to the UK’s aluminium importers.
Peel Ports Group is already working with customers to bring aluminium cargoes closer to major centres of demand across its seven statutory harbour authority ports and 24 terminals.
David Huck, chief operating officer at Peel Ports, said: “We are pleased to become the only UK port operator in membership of ALFED, in a move that underpins our commitment to creating a greener, more productive and sustainable supply chain.
“The partnership aligns with our strategy to support the growth of key sectors, including aluminium, by providing smarter port-centric logistics and access to the UK’s major industrial heartlands.
“We look forward to working with ALFED and its members to unlock new opportunities for trade, growth and further investments in our group ports capability.”
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Peel Ports Group already handles significant volumes of steel, aluminium and other metals across its UK and Irish Sea port network.
Nadine Bloxsome, chief executive at the Aluminium Federation, added: “We’re pleased to welcome Peel Ports Group into ALFED membership.
“Their operational knowledge of port infrastructure and logistics adds a valuable dimension to our network, particularly at a time when efficient and sustainable supply chains are a growing priority for many members.”