Forest products throughput grew at Associated British Ports (ABP) in the six months ending June 30.
Imports at Hull handled by Northern Cargo Services, a wholly-owned ABP subsidiary, increased by some 22% for the period, including the first shipments of timber into the port for Finnforest UK Ltd. A 6,300m2 distribution centre for Finnforest at Alexandra Dock is expected to be operational by October.
ABP says port developments will provide the basis for future growth, with additional storage facility investments already announced for Hull costing in excess of £1.3m, consolidating its position as a leading UK timber port.
Group turnover for Associated British Ports Holdings plc was up 6% to £213.7m, while pre-tax profit increased 2% to £67.6m.
Group chief executive Bo Lerenius said: “This performance is particularly pleasing given the current uncertain economic climate and, once again, demonstrates the advantage of pursuing a strategy of developing new business with long-term contracts and quality customers.”
