Member Article

Port of Tyne secures new container service to Russia

The Port of Tyne will open a new container shipping service to Russia, connecting the North East with St Petersburg.

Two vessels operated by Danish firm Seago Line will run an eight-day service between the ports. The move is expected to see container exports from Port of Tyne increase by 50%.

John Tye, commercial director, Logistics, said: “This is great news following the major investment in a new £6m gantry crane. It opens up an important route in to the emerging Russian market. It provides a great opportunity for businesses operating in North East England and also those based along the M62 corridor from Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool through to the borders of Scotland.

“All can now benefit from the cost savings afforded to anyone looking to import or export goods to and from our own region and beyond.’’

The new service will see Seago Line operate the Seago Wybelsum and Seago Calisto, calling alternatively every Saturday at the Port of Tyne in South Shields.

Robert Clegg, Seago Line UK & Ireland general manager, added: “This is a first for Seago Line and will be our only feeder connection in to St. Petersburg offering significant import and export growth.

“Our customers can expect to have access to Seago’s significant equipment pool, industry knowledge, unmatched vessel fleet and extensive network that comes through our close relationship with the Maersk Group.”

The news coincides with The Port of Tyne’s attendance at a major international logistics conference TransRussia, in Moscow this week.

John Tye, who is on the look-out for further opportunities in Russia, added: “Russia is an important emerging market, with many manufacturers and retailers now looking for ways to manage their shipping and transport needs.

“TransRussia provides a great opportunity to meet potential clients and partners and promote our services in Russia. This is our first visit and we are very hopeful that it will help us bring further business to North East England.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .