Terminal operator OBA creates space for new operations in the port of Amsterdam
Terminal operator OBA (Overslag Bedrijf Amsterdam) will be clearing part of its coal-handling site this year in order to further diversify into other dry-bulk commodities. Its decision is prompted by the reduced demand for coal storage. This represents a key new step for Port of Amsterdam in its push towards sustainability, while the change is part of OBA’s strategy of becoming a multi-purpose terminal. OBA and Port of Amsterdam have expressed their joint intention to help advance the energy transition and have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to formalise this objective, the company said in its press release.
In signing the LOI, the two partners agreed for OBA to clear more than 20% of its site to accommodate new operations, starting in the first quarter of 2018. The site to be released – roughly the size of 28 football pitches – concerns the non-automated section of these industrial premises which will lead to more efficient business for OBA. Investments in the site will focus on creating covered storage capacity. These efforts are part of OBA’s goal of furthering its ongoing diversification into dry-bulk commodities and becoming a multi-purpose terminal. OBA and Port of Amsterdam have agreed to invest in new quays and in increasing water depths. The arrival of the new sea lock will help to advance these goals.
Port of Amsterdam CEO Koen Overtoom: ‘In signing their Letter of Intent, OBA and Port of Amsterdam are showing that they are serious about actively promoting the energy transition and diversification. As a “Port of Partnerships,” we are working with our customers to facilitate these changes. We need our customers’ expertise, infrastructure and business experience to turn the energy transition into a success. This is therefore very much a combined effort in every way.’
OBA Managing Director Harm Winkeler: ‘As a logistics services provider for various dry-bulk commodities, we are meeting the changing market demand, prompted in part by the energy transition. As Europe’s fourth-largest port, Port of Amsterdam is very well positioned in the supply chain for various major industries in the Netherlands and Germany. We aim to provide high-quality services and it’s vital that we adapt to our customers’ changing needs.
This LOI marks an important step in the ongoing process of diversifying our terminal and introducing more sustainable practices in our operations. Building and maintaining long-term partnerships with our new and existing customers remains a prime focus for our company.’
