Associated British Ports has invested more than £4m in new cargo handling equipment and operational improvements at its South Wales ports, which include Newport, throughout 2015.

The purchase of this new handling equipment has enabled port customers to directly benefit from increased operational efficiency due to the enhanced technology of the new machinery.

Matthew Kennerley, director of ABP South Wales, said: “We are committed to continually improving the operations and services that we provide to our customers in order to ensure we are delivering a competitive and service focussed approach that meets their business needs.”

One major purchase has been the Liebherr LHM 180 Mobile Harbour crane that arrived at the Port of Newport in October 2015. The crane holds the title of being one of the most advanced in the country due to its cutting edge SmartGrip system.

Other investments include the purchase of two Liebherr 509 Stereo-loaders, two Manitou Tele-handlers, two Kalmar 25 tonne Forklift Trucks to service growing steel volumes, and three Volvo Loading Shovels to facilitate the growing feed and fertiliser sector.

In addition to this, a new fertiliser bagging line has been installed at the Port of Swansea and further investments have been made to improve storage facilities.

ABP South Wales operates the ports of Newport, Cardiff, Barry, Port Talbot, and Swansea.

Collectively these ports support 15,000 jobs across the region and are a major supporter of local industry. This new equipment will assist with cargo handling and general port operations across all five ports.