London Gateway is on track to dethrone Felixstowe as the UK’s leading boxport, marking a significant turning point in the competitive port market. London Gateway, operated by DP World, reported unprecedented growth of over 50%, reaching a milestone of more than 3m teu for the first time.

The robust growth has been fuelled by the recent inauguration of the port’s fourth berth and the addition of vessel calls from Gemini Cooperation’s Asia-Europe routes, commencing February 2025. 

DP World’s plans include constructing two all-electric berths as part of a substantial £1bn investment. This expansion will increase London Gateway to six operational berths, alongside a further £170m allocated for a high bay storage container handling system. 

Analysis by Xeneta, a freight rate platform, highlights that London Gateway, which was plagued with bouts of congestion last year, boasts the highest handling capacity in the UK and a diverse global connectivity with 104 unique port links, including the most comprehensive African trade connections among UK ports. 

Meanwhile, Hutchison-run Felixstowe is projected to experience a decline in year-on-year figures due to the exit of Maersk. Felixstowe was Hutchison’s first non-Chinese port investment back in 1991. Hutchison has been attempting to sell off its ports division for the past year.