ABP Completes Europe’s Largest Quay Crane Investment at Port of Southampton

9 October 2026
Edited By: Lauren Ernst

Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK's largest port operator, has welcomed the arrival of two further quay cranes at DP World Southampton, completing Europe's largest quay crane investment program and further strengthening Southampton's position as a leading UK gateway for global trade.

(Image credit: ABP)

The cranes are the latest milestone in a landmark year for the Port of Southampton, the UK’s leading gateway for deep sea trade, which has already welcomed some of the world’s largest cruise, automotive, and container vessels in 2026.

Alastair Welch, ABP Regional Director for Southampton, said: “Congratulations to DP World on the arrival of their new cranes. It’s the latest in a line of ‘giant’ milestones for the Port of Southampton in 2026, following on from the first two cranes and successful calls by the largest vessels in the world in key cargo categories like containers and automotive. We remain ambitious for the Port and its role in supporting jobs, trade and economic growth.”

The final delivery completes a $60 million investment in container handling infrastructure. Together, the four cranes will enhance Southampton’s ability to accommodate the world’s largest container ships and support continued growth in international trade.

Owned and operated by ABP, the Port of Southampton is one of the UK’s leading ports for containers, cars, and cruise. Operated by DP World, the container terminal handles around two million containers each year, connecting UK businesses with global markets.

Working alongside DP World and other partners, ABP continues to invest in infrastructure and services that support the port’s long-term success, supply chain resilience, and economic growth.