Peel Ports Group, providing port and logistics services, has become the first UK port operator to join the Aluminium Federation (ALFED), a non-profit organisation dedicated to representing and supporting the UK aluminium industry, underpinning its strategic focus on helping the steel and metals industries. This development aligns with the Group's ambition to strengthen its presence in the aluminium sector, building on a record year for steel imports handled at the Port of Liverpool.
The Group stated that its membership with the ALFED will enable it to deliver more efficient and sustainable supply chain solutions for aluminium importers. In addition to this, it has already been collaborating with customers to position cargo closer to demand hubs, mainly across its seven statutory harbour authority ports and 24 terminals, minimising road transport and lowering carbon emissions through the use of coastal and short-sea shipping.
David Huck, the Chief Operating Officer at Peel Ports, marks this collaboration as a reflection to its strategy aiding various sectors with efficient port-centric logistic movements. Owing to this, he has stated, "We look forward to working with ALFED and its members to unlock new opportunities for trade, growth and further investment in our ports."
On the other hand, Nadine Bloxsome, the Chief Operating Officer of ALFED, stated, "Their operational knowledge of port infrastructure and logistics adds real value, especially as sustainable supply chains become a growing priority."
The initiative to boost the UK aluminium industry further reflects ALFED's previously launched UK Aluminium Alliance (UKAA) at the House of Lords, positioning aluminium as a strategic material for the UK's low-carbon industrial future. The initiative brought together government, OEMs, recyclers and industry leaders to drive competitiveness, policy alignment and circular growth. Structured around five pillars, including energy pricing reform, sector mapping, workforce development, circular market expansion and policy engagement, the UKAA initiative aims to strengthen trade, enhance recycling and support the nation's clean-industrial transition.
The Group manages substantial volumes of steel, aluminium and other metals across its UK and Irish Sea port network. In April, the company announced a record year for steel imports at the Port of Liverpool, with volumes rising by over 35 per cent year-on-year.
This momentum is attracting increased interest from metals importers and cargo owners seeking port solutions that provide greater value, resilience and enhanced connectivity to end markets.
Also read: ALFED and Chartered Institute partner to boost UK aluminium’s global trade strength
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