Dublin Port expands reefer capacity

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Dublin Port has marked the delivery of major new cold chain infrastructure following the installation of four purpose-built reefer gantries at the Doyle Shipping Group (DSG) container terminal on Alexandra Quay East.

The port has signed an eight-year licence agreement with DSG to operate the new elevated steel structures, which provide electrical power to stacked refrigerated containers. Constructed by Wills Bros, the gantries offer 140 built-in power outlets, enabling temperature-sensitive cargo to remain controlled while in port. Containers can be stacked up to five high, improving land use efficiency and terminal productivity. A dedicated substation is also under construction to support the expanded capacity.

Peter Burke T.D., Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment with Dublin Port CEO Barry O'Connell to mark the delivery of new refrigerated container infrastructure at Dublin Port.

Source: Robbie Reynolds Photography

Peter Burke T.D., Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment with Dublin Port CEO Barry O’Connell to mark the delivery of new refrigerated container infrastructure at Dublin Port.

“We are delighted to work with Wills Bros, Doyle Shipping Group and our port team to complete this project,” said Cormac Kennedy, head of Commercial and Programme Management Office at Dublin Port Company.

“It is one of a number of key projects under way to enhance the customer experience at Dublin Port.”

The investment comes as Dublin Port records continued growth in lift on, lift off volumes (LoLo), with 2025 marking its busiest year on record and a 9% increase on 2024.

“Growth in LoLo volumes in recent years has put pressure on land use, so investment of this type helps us stay ahead of demand and support our customers’ growth plans,” Kennedy added, noting that the port has invested an average of €60 million annually in recent years, rising to €120 million in 2025.

Glen O’Connor, chief executive of Doyle Shipping Group, said: “Reefer gantries supply safe, continuous electrical power to refrigerated containers during dwell time in port. These new structures are engineered for high density stacking, reducing land use per unit.”

He added that increasing direct EU services into Dublin had boosted demand for temperature-controlled capacity, strengthening operational resilience and protecting perishable goods such as dairy, meat, seafood, fruit and pharmaceuticals.