Teesport has been awarded Terminal Operator of the Year by Finnish shipping and logistics group – Containerships.

This is only the third time they have recognised a terminal and PD Ports’ Teesport follows on from awards to St.Petersburg and Klaipeda in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Containerships and PD Ports have been working together for more than 40 years and this latest award recognises their commitment to service levels and productivity at Teesport.

Michael Povey, Vessel Operations Manager for Containerships in the North East, states the high service levels at Teesport played a significant part in the award.

“In 2017, our volume throughput increased by 10% and this was supported by improved service levels from Teesport. Continued investment over the last seven years by PD Ports at Teesport has provided significant growth for the Port and our €200m investment for an LNG door to door supply chain to make us the most eco-friendly transport solution provider continues to move forward.

“Last year saw the installation of Teesport’s third ship to shore crane which was perfect timing as this coincided with the implementation of our new nine-vessel sailing schedule which makes our presence at Teesport a rewarding one for both Containerships and PD Ports.”

Frans Calje, Chief Executive Officer of PD Ports welcomed the award from Containerships. “Being recognised by one of your customers is always an honour and especially when it comes from one that we have maintained a special working relationship for more than 40 years. It is testament to our team and their commitment to Teesport that the award takes into account the volume growth at the port, our increased efficiencies and services levels, productivity and investment.

“More than £1billion of investment has been attracted and secured both by PD Ports and third parties over the last 10 years to underpin growth and development. As part of this investment, PD Ports upgraded the port capacity with a new ship-to-shore crane, co-financed by the European Union's Connecting Europe Facility, that offers customers faster and more efficient operations.

“We see Containerships as a valued customer and they have faith in Teesport and our commitment to be a reliable and productive partner for them.”

PD Ports is only the third Terminal Operator to receive this award in competition with 10 other ports visited by Containerships.