Leading UK logistics specialist Maritime Transport opens new multi-million pound container facility at the Port of Liverpool. Tony McDonough reports

UK logistics specialist Maritime Transport has opened a multi-million pound container facility at the Port of Liverpool.

Operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the logistics hub has a capacity for up to 2,000 containers and will allow the business to expand its operations on Liverpool and get goods to customers in the north of the UK more efficiently.

Felixstowe-based Maritime Transport is a £400m-turnover company which operates four dedicated container storage sites in Liverpool, Ipswich, Northampton and Southampton, with a combined capacity of more than 30,000 containers.

It also has eight open-access, multi-user rail freight terminals in Tamworth, Birmingham, Manchester, Wakefield, Northampton, Mossend, Tilbury, and East Midlands Gateway.

This latest investment into Liverpool coincides with the introduction of shipping giant MSC’s Far East to Liverpool container route. Starting in August the service sees vessels sail from China and call at Vietnam and Liverpool and onto other European ports.

Tom Williams, deputy chief executive of Maritime Transport, said: “We are delighted to open our newest container storage site at the Port of Liverpool, meeting the rising demand for storage options in the area.

“This expansion increases our capacity and provides new, modern facilities for our drivers and operational teams.

“It’s an excellent addition to our network that will undoubtedly strengthen our service capabilities, and accommodate the growing volume of cargo activity at the port following the introduction of MSC’s Britannia service.”

Maritime Transport’s facility offers storage, handling, and maintenance services, supporting both long and short-term requirements for loaded and empty container storage.

It also features reefer plugin points, devanning services (unloading cargo), a comprehensive security setup, and a large vehicle fleet for first and final mile transport. Additionally, the company has invested in new container handling equipment.

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As part of the project, the business is expanding its existing transport depot within the port from four acres to 11.4. A new two-storey building currently under construction will replace the previous structure.

David Huck, chief operating officer at Port of Liverpool operator, Peel Ports, added: “This is a really positive development for the region that will create additional opportunities for cargo owners and retailers under current economic pressures.

“This investment highlights the port’s strategic importance as a hub for both national and international trade and we look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Maritime  Transport.”