Agreement allows DB Cargo to explore intermodal growth
DB Cargo UK is keen to develop its intermodal capabilities, according to its Chief Executive Hans-Georg Werner.
He was speaking to RAIL on the day that the operator announced an agreement with Maritime Transport Ltd. As part of the agreement, the latter has launched Maritime Intermodal, which will contract four dedicated services from Felixstowe and Southampton.
Werner said: “Intermodal is the fastest growing freight market, yet our terminals were under-utilised. Maritime is a very successful logistics business and has the volumes and desire to turn these assets into sustainable and profitable distribution centres. It’s a real win-win, and we look forward to working with Maritime.”
Under the plans, Maritime Intermodal will take on responsibility for DB Cargo’s terminals in Trafford Park, Manchester and Wakefield. There will be significant investment in
“Intermodal is the fastest growing freight market, yet our terminals were under-utilised.” Hans-Georg Werner, Chief Executive, DB Cargo
both sites, which will remain open access for both intermodal and non-intermodal trains.
Maritime Intermodal will retain existing contracts and seek additional trains from all ports, using all freight operators. It will take responsibility for DBC’s existing intermodal customers on its Felixstowe and Southampton routes.
DBC will look to grow its existing intermodal business.
With the Maritime deal, Werner said that currently DBC sells spaces on the trains, but acknowledged that the company “was not good at it” and needs to focus on its expertise. This was a theme he also raised last year.
He said the Maritime deal should start around April, although that depends on elements including agreeing details on staff transferring between companies.
Maritime Group Executive Chairman John Williams said: “In addition, over the four services alone, more than 32 million miles will be taken off the UK road network each year, reducing both congestion and carbon dioxide emissions. This further enhances our creativity in developing intermodal solutions for our customers.”