In a new step to enhance supply chain efficiency, DP World has announced the launch of a new service aimed at reducing the delivery time of fresh products from Morocco to the UK. This service will contribute to improving product quality and increasing export efficiency by cutting the shipping time for fruits and vegetables to the United Kingdom by up to two days, benefiting retailers and consumers alike.
Atlas Service: Connecting Morocco and the UK
DP World is introducing the new “Atlas” service that connects the cities of Agadir and Casablanca in Morocco with its ports in the UK, such as London Gateway and Antwerp Gateway. This service, set to begin in November 2025, will utilize two dedicated ships to transport up to 150,000 tons of fresh products annually. Additionally, the service will transport these high-quality products to Antwerp for distribution across Europe.
Improving Efficiency and Reducing Emissions
This initiative aims to expand transportation services, reducing reliance on overland routes exceeding 3,000 km. As a result, carbon emissions can be reduced to approximately 250 kg of CO2 per ton-km, representing a 70% decrease compared to traditional truck transport. It is a sustainable logistical solution that significantly contributes to reducing congestion and enhancing the quality of sensitive products such as tomatoes and blueberries.
Investment in Transportation Technology
To meet increasing demands, DP World has invested in a modern fleet of 1,250 refrigerated containers, along with 1,000 dry containers to accommodate the flow of goods between Morocco and Europe. With Morocco exporting over 6.5 million metric tons of fruits and vegetables annually to Western Europe, the importance of this service in facilitating transportation and improving market efficiency is evident.
Future Aspirations and a Call for Change
Rashed Abdullah, CEO of DP World – Europe, confirmed that this service is designed to be “practical, reliable, and fast,” providing farmers and retailers with assurance regarding the quality of their products. Markus Ruddatz, Chief Operating Officer for Shipping in Europe, added that “the new service underscores our commitment to building smarter and more sustainable supply chains.” Looking ahead, DP World aims to maintain a more sustainable environment and deliver innovative solutions that benefit all stakeholders.