PD Logistics, part of the PD Ports Group, has successfully won the contract with the UKs largest independent drinks manufacturer and distributor, Halewood International, to handle all imports of Tsingtao Beer from China.
The containers will be received into the port of Felixstowe and unloaded into PD Logistics 500,000 sq ft onsite warehouse facility for bonded storage prior to onward despatch.
This new contract with Halewood International significantly increases the volume of bonded products that PD Logistics currently handles at this facility. As a result, PD Logistics has expanded its wet bond area from 80,000 sq ft to 165,000 sq ft to accommodate the imported Tsingtao beer, whilst allowing for further expansion within the market.
Tsingtao is the 5th fastest growing premium packaged lager in the world and the tenth-largest beer brand worldwide. With an already substantial and loyal consumer base within the Chinese restaurant market in the UK, Tsingtao is already appearing on supermarket shelves.
James Wright, Sales Controller at Halewood International, comments: "With the Tsingtao agreement in place we needed to identify a partner, who was able to offer a large, bonded warehouse facility as close to the port as possible, which would enable us to maximise the efficiency of our supply chain."
"We were aware of the excellent reputation of PD Logistics bonded facility and the comprehensive shipping connections enjoyed by the Port of Felixstowe. The decision was easy to make and we look forward to what we hope will be a long and fruitful relationship with PD Logistics."
Jerry Hopkinson, MD, bulks, ports and logistics for PD Ports, said: "The agreement with Halewood International marks an important milestone for the PD Logistics warehouse operations at Felixstowe, reinforcing its position as an important wet bond facility and major import centre for bonded beers, wines and spirits.
"Using PD Logistics warehousing facility within the dock site also highlights the growing recognition that the UK's major distributors, manufacturers and retailers give to the portcentric logistics solution offered by PD Logistics and the wider PD Ports Group.
"In todays economic climate, many companies are looking to drive down costs and the handling and storage of products at a port-based logistics centre. It is increasingly recognised as a cost effective and viable supply chain solution."
Halewood International, based in Merseyside, manufactures and distributes some of the UKs best known alcoholic drinks brands from Lambs Navy Rum to Crabbies Alcoholic Ginger Beer and Red Square Vodka.