Yilport Holding is to operate the Port of Oslo’s new container facility at Sjursøya – a move that the port hopes will help boost its competitiveness.
The Port of Oslo container facilities are the largest in Norway, handling over 30% of Norwegian container volume. This new facility will be developed in stages to a designed annual capacity of 450,000 teu.
“Yilport Holding was chosen because they share our goal of doubling cargo flows in order to serve Oslo’s growing population and boost the economy. Based on Yilport’s proven track-record, we have confidence they can take on this task,” said Anne-Sigrid Hamran, director, Port of Oslo.
The addition of Yilport Oslo is part of Yilport Holding’s aim to be a top-10 operator by 2025. The company says it has plans for further expansion in Northern Europe as well as other regions.
“For now our immediate focus is establishing rail connection to expand the market, and offering an integrated service package,” added Sean Pierce, CEO, Yilport Holding. “We have a long-term commitment to turn Yilport Oslo into the preferred Gateway for all Norwegian cargo. The port has lost some of its competitive advantage and Yilport, in partnership with the Oslo Havn, will focus on improving the quality of the services provided to customers.”
Starting on 1 February 2015, Yilport will integrate the Port of Oslo crane department with Yilport Oslo and begin container operations.
Yilport Oslo will also work closely with the port authority to commission environmentally-friendly RTGs in order to minimise the impact on the environment and the Oslo community.