OBA creates space for new operations

Its decision was prompted by the reduced demand for coal storage. The Port of Amsterdam views this development as an important new step in its goal of achieving sustainability; for OBA, the change complements its ambition of becoming a multi-purpose terminal and diversifying into dry bulk commodities. 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.

In signing the LOI, the two partners agreed for OBA to clear more than 20% of its site to accommodate new operations, starting in 1Q18. 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. OBA and Port of Amsterdam have agreed to invest in new quays and in increasing water depths. Both parties hope that the arrival of the new sea lock will help to advance these goals.

Port of Amsterdam CEO, Koen Overtoom, said: “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, said: “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.”

Read the article online at: https://www.drybulkmagazine.com/dry-bulk/12032018/oba-creates-space-for-new-operations/