Overseas trade boost as another freight link to Continent is launched

Associated British Ports (ABP) Humber and WEC Lines have announced a new freight service connecting the UK to Bilbao, which starts on 16 January 2021.

The container service will be between the Port of Immingham and Bilbao and will be serviced by the MV Freya. It will be a significant boost to retailers handling food and clothing from Spain.

Last year saw a major £36m investment to expand the terminal at Immingham.

This included the arrival of new equipment, including six state-of-the-art electric rubber tyre gantry cranes and two new ship to shore cranes.

Simon Bird, ABP Humber’s regional director, said: “This is fantastic news for ABP Humber and WEC Lines, increasing our connectivity around the world and keeping Britain trading.

“The new facilities as part of the upgrade at the Humber Container Terminals means we are ready for what the year brings. We look forward to even stronger relationships with our container customers.”

Roger Megann, managing director of WEC Lines UK, said: “We are responding to market demand to bring containers closer to the shipper or consignees door.

“Immingham plays a key role in this through its central East Coast position. By removing the road miles from the door-to-door our clients will benefit from reduced costs, zero congestion, lower emissions and improved control over their stock.

“This service brings a new and reliable logistic solution to the market which will give clients a clear and advantageous choice in market where choice has previously been lacking.

“This service will be very relevant post 1 January 2021 as demand for innovative container services increase.”