The largest British logistics business, Wincanton, is targeting further growth of its operations at the Port of Southampton after moving to a new base and investing in new equipment, supported by extra rail capacity.
Wincanton previously serviced the port mainly out of a base in Greenham Common but took the decision to move closer to the port to a more convenient and larger site. The new base, in Eling Wharf, has the capacity to hold parking for 70 container vehicles and has easier links with the UK rail network.
Chris Fenton, Managing Director at Wincanton, said:
“With its proximity to the Midlands and South-West, and being the UK’s second largest freight terminal, the Port of Southampton will be a key base for us to expand from in 2016. It allows us to be more flexible and respond more quickly to the demands of our customers, who have already seen an improved service.
“The move at Southampton has also made it possible to move more freight by rail, which produces fewer carbon emissions than when the same distance is travelled using the road network. Sustainability is something our customers are asking for – they are looking to us to help them reduce their impact on the environment.”
Wincanton has its own rail link, operated by DB Cargo UK, which connects Southampton with the Midlands five days a week. This complements Wincanton’s Felixstowe rail services, giving additional and reliable capability on the national Wincanton rail network.
Les Morris, Head of Sales at DB Cargo UK, said: “By working in partnership with Wincanton to expand at Southampton, we believe we can deliver significant fuel savings to the UK supply chain and reduce time to market for products. Using rail also reduces the need for road transportation and as rail produces approximately 76% less CO2 than HGVs for the equivalent journey, this will provide significant environmental benefits.”
As well as the new location for handling the movement of shipping containers, Wincanton has increased capabilities in Southampton, investing in additional tail-lift skeletal trailers to broaden the range of added value services on offer to customers.
Wincanton operates and manages the supply chain for some of the UK’s largest businesses, across numerous sectors including retail, construction, defence, energy and manufacturing.
ENDS
