ABP Humber and WEC Lines have announced a new service connecting the UK to Bilbao. The container service will run between the Port of Immingham and Bilbao and will be serviced by the MV Freya. The link with Bilbao will be a significant boost to retailers handling food and clothing from Spain.

Last year saw a major £36 million investment to expand the terminal which included the arrival of new equipment, including six ‘state of the art’ electric rubber tyre gantry cranes and two new ship to shore cranes.

With the increase in demand, from the Covid-19 pandemic and the decisions around Brexit, the new service is a reliable logistic solution for all parties.

Simon Bird, ABP Humber’s regional director, said: “This is fantastic news for ABP Humber and WEC Lines, increasing our connectivity around the world and keeping Britain trading. The new facilities as part of the upgrade at the Humber Container Terminals means we are ready for what the year brings. We look forward to even stronger relationships with our container customers.”

Roger Megann, WEC Lines UK managing director, said: “We are responding to market demand to bring containers closer the shipper or consignees door. Immingham plays a key role in this through its central East Coast position.

“By removing the road miles from the door to door our clients will benefit from reduced costs, zero congestion, lower emissions and improved control over their stock. This service brings a new and reliable logistic solution to the market which will give clients a clear and advantageous choice in market where choice has previously been lacking. This service will be very relevant post-Brexit as demand increases for innovative container services.”