ABP acquires Humber port services specialist

Associated British Ports (ABP) has acquired Global Shipping Services, a Humber-based provider of stevedoring, warehousing, storage and port agency services.

The acquisition strengthens ABP’s integrated logistics offering, adding specialist expertise in project cargo, heavy lift and cargo handling. Global operates across the ports of Hull, Goole and Immingham, handling more than 1.5 million tonnes of cargo annually.

“The acquisition of Global Shipping Services is another important step forward for ABP as we pursue our mission of Keeping Britain Trading by continually upgrading our service offerings underpinning our customers’ growth ambitions. Global is a great company with great people who we’re looking forward welcoming into the ABP team,” commented Henrik L. Pedersen, chief executive of ABP.

Founded in 1989 following the merger of several established port service businesses, Global has built a strong customer base across the Humber. Its operations cover forest products, steel, bulk and breakbulk cargoes, alongside specialist project logistics and storage solutions.

Andrew Dawes, ABP’s regional director for the Humber, said the deal would support Global’s development within the group and across its wider network of 19 ports.

He said expanding services complemented ABP’s infrastructure investment programme, including the £200 million-plus Immingham Eastern RoRo Terminal project. The company aims to strengthen the Humber’s position as a major UK trading gateway and attract further business.

Peter Waud, managing director of Global Shipping Services, will remain in his role following the acquisition. He said joining ABP would provide access to additional resources, expertise and opportunities across the port operator’s network.

Global’s integration is expected to create opportunities to broaden its services beyond the Humber while maintaining its established customer relationships.

In the immediate term, customers have been advised to continue working with their usual Global and ABP contacts on a business-as-usual basis.