Peel Ports transforms bulk cargo operations with new £4m partnership
(Posted on 29/01/26)
Peel Ports Group has partnered with digitalisation specialist TBA to transform its dry bulks standardisation programme and future-proof operations as part of a £4m investment.
The UK’s second largest port operator’s initiative is redefining how bulk cargo terminals operate at key facilities – including the Port of Liverpool, Port of Birkenhead, Runcorn Docks, and King George V Dock in Glasgow - in a move to increase resilience and efficiencies for customers.
The ongoing investment represents one of the most comprehensive operational transformation projects ever undertaken within the Group. The programme will significantly improve accuracy and efficiency across Peel Ports Group’s bulk operations, halving stock losses across its terminals and cutting revenue leakage by up to three per cent.
The work brings together infrastructure integration, process redesign and advanced digital integration into a single, unified model The port group will use TBA’s terminal operating system CommTrac, which connects weighbridges, ANPR gates, driver self-service kiosks and handheld devices into one fully integrated single platform.
From vessel discharge through to customer dispatch, every movement of cargo will be digitised, consistently managed and captured through a single platform.
Drivers will check in via ANPR, confirm dispatches via self-service kiosks, and record load movements using mobile devices - eliminating manual data entry and reducing the potential for error.
Underpinning the digital enhancements is a major programme of infrastructure investment, ensuring the operator’s dry bulks network is equipped for predictive planning tools and smart service delivery models.
The programme also introduces a new level of workforce flexibility, with standardised processes, systems and interfaces in place, teams can move seamlessly between sites, supporting resilience, consistency and service continuity.
The joint programme is already being recognised by the wider sector after it was named winner of the Innovative Technology Award at last year’s IBJ Awards.
Gavin Laybourne, Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) at Peel Ports Group, said: “The launch of this initiative is a major milestone in our wider digital transformation and the result of a highly successful partnership with TBA.
“In a sector where processes are traditionally shaped by legacy systems, our new technology enables us to centre our operations around customer needs and data-driven insights - a model we are now replicating across the business. Together, we’re setting a new industry benchmark, transforming the way we serve our customers. Being recognised at this year’s IBJ Awards is a fantastic endorsement of the progress we’ve already made.”
Chris Hicks, Managing Director of TBA Doncaster, added: “Partnering with Peel Ports Group on this transformational journey has been a privilege. Together, we’re delivering cutting-edge technology, while laying the foundations for a smarter, more connected, and future-ready port network. This is innovation with purpose, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
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