DP World has announced the launch of a second weekly rail service to significantly boost rail capacity between its London Gateway and Southampton ports, a move set to enhance the UK's supply chain resilience and cut carbon emissions.
The expansion, which begins today, 1 October, is expected to eliminate over one million truck miles annually, playing a pivotal role in reducing road congestion and emissions, according to the logistics giant.
The mid-week service will be operated by Freightliner and will complement the existing weekend train service, providing businesses with more flexibility and reliability in their logistics operations.
This increased rail frequency means that customers will have enhanced access to DP World's extensive range of services, including warehousing, freight forwarding, and delivery solutions.
The first weekly service between the two ports, introduced in 2022, has already demonstrated the efficiency of rail transit for freight, offering a faster, more reliable alternative to traditional road transport.
DP World is also encouraging customers to adopt rail through its Modal Shift Programme, a financial incentive designed to promote a greener and more sustainable approach to container transport.
The programme has already made a significant impact, increasing the share of rail freight at Southampton from 21% to over 30%. By encouraging the shift from road to rail, DP World is helping to drive a broader transformation towards more sustainable logistics practices across the country.
"Launching a second rail service between London Gateway and Southampton is the next logical step for DP World, given the clear benefits for our customers,” said John Trenchard, Vice President of Commercial and Supply Chain at DP World UK. “Providing a cleaner and more cost-efficient way to move cargo across the country is a key priority for DP World in the UK, and modal shift has consistently proven to be a reliable and flexible solution."
In addition to its strategic UK hubs at Southampton and London Gateway, DP World’s capabilities extend to logistics, freight forwarding, and European transport, with all services seamlessly integrated into the company’s global network. These comprehensive offerings are designed to support businesses looking for efficient and environmentally friendly supply chain solutions.
Chris Lawrenson, Managing Director of Intermodal Logistics at Freightliner Group, highlighted the environmental benefits, stating: “Our fleet of rolling stock and carbon-efficient trains provide customers with lower carbon options for their international container movements.”
As businesses across the UK continue to focus on reducing their environmental impact, DP World's commitment to expanding rail services offers a practical and scalable solution for achieving both economic and sustainability goals.
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