PD Ports ‘further strengthens reputation’ with Iberian link

A port operator says it has bolstered its position as “the Northern gateway for international trade” after introducing an Iberian service.

PD Ports has partnered with Ellerman City Liners on a Spanish and Portuguese link from Teesport.

The route, which includes calls to Rotterdam, Cadiz, Setubal and Tilbury, will run weekly in the new year.

Its unveiling was marked by the arrival of 800-container vessel Kristin Schepers, which docked at Teesport after sailing from Portugal to drop cargo for PD Ports’ road haulage fleet.

Geoff Lippitt, PD Ports’ chief commercial officer, said: “This unique service offers best in class transit times and, when running as planned in 2023, will further boost our weekly roster of vessel calls, reaffirming our position at Teesport as the Northern gateway for international trade.

“We’re thrilled to be supporting the team at Ellerman with this new service, and look forward to working alongside them to further develop the route.”

Peter Andrews, Ellerman commercial director, added: “Teesport – being known as an important and efficient short-sea hub for the Midlands and Scotland – is a great addition to our new service.

“With a new direct link from Cadiz and Portugal into Teesport and back, we are closing a missing link.”

Ellerman’s arrival comes against the backdrop of PD Ports increasing container capacity to meet rising demand.

Its plans include development of the Northern Gateway Container terminal, which bosses say will triple overall container handling capacity.