The UK faces a significant shortfall in its grain harvest following record-breaking winter weather.
Associated British Ports (ABP) is preparing its Humber operations to accommodate grain imports, helping to stabilise the national supply.
Recent reports from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit have highlighted a drastic reduction of four million tonnes in the UK’s harvest of wheat, barley, oats, and oilseed rape. This has been attributed to one of the wettest winters on record, severely impacting the agricultural yield and creating a pressing need for imports.
ABP has proactively invested approximately £30 million in its Humber facilities to prepare for grain imports. These investments have transformed storage facilities at Immingham into specialist grain import centres, complete with a 38,000-tonne storage shed at the Humber International Terminal. Additional upgrades include the conversion of two large break bulk sheds in both Hull and Immingham to handle grain efficiently.
These strategic collaborations exemplify ABP’s role in maintaining food security and demonstrate the importance of robust, long-term relationships within the logistics sector.
Under the leadership of Simon Bird, regional director of the Humber Ports, there have been significant advancements in grain handling facilities. His tenure has seen substantial infrastructure development, making the Humber ports crucial to the UK’s agricultural logistics.
As Simon Bird steps down, his contributions solidify the ports’ status in feeding the nation and supporting economic growth.
These developments reflect ABP’s commitment to adapting to market needs and enhancing its role in the national supply chain.
ABP’s extensive preparations at Humber ports underscore its critical role in addressing the UK’s grain import needs.
With strategic investments and strong partnerships, ABP ensures the efficiency and reliability of its operations, securing food supply stability.
