The London Gateway container terminal set a new handling record in 2025. Operator DP World is investing billions in further expansion.
The terminal exceeded the 3 million TEU mark last year, an increase of 52% compared to the previous year (1.9 million TEU). The main reason for this is the newly commissioned fourth berth, but the additional ship calls on the Asia-Europe routes of the Gemini Cooperation – consisting of Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd – also contributed to this.
DP World also recorded significant growth at the terminal in Southampton, where throughput increased by 2 million TEU. The company’s total container throughput in the UK thus rose by 5 million TEU – in a national market comprising around 9 million TEU.
The Dubai-based port operator plans to significantly expand the London Gateway Terminal in the future. DP World is investing £1 billion (approx. €1.15 billion) in the construction of two additional all-electric berths. The six berths will be able to handle the world’s largest container ships. Last year, a second rail terminal also commenced operations on the site. Over the next two years, DP World will also be installing a new “boxbay” container handling system, for which £170 million will flow into the port.
“Every container that passes through our terminals at London Gateway and Southampton carries goods that keep the UK economy and everyday life running – from food on our shelves to products that supply manufacturers and retailers,” said Stephen Whittingham, Executive Vice President for Northern Europe at DP World. “Our UK infrastructure plays a crucial role in keeping these supply chains running smoothly and efficiently, especially during the busiest times of the year.”
Exceeding 5 million TEU is a clear sign that investment in capacity, technology and resilience is enabling DP World to move goods from ship to store more reliably, sustainably and efficiently.
DP World Southampton will take delivery of the first of its four new quay cranes this year. According to a statement from the company, these will form the tallest quay crane fleet in Europe – they will be “taller than Big Ben”, it says. The £60 million investment is intended to secure the long-term operation of the Solent terminal.
