Port of Immingham welcomes Wilson Eco I

(Posted on 22/09/25)

Associated British Ports (ABP) has welcomed the Wilson Eco I to its Port of Immingham on the vessel’s maiden voyage earlier this week. The vessel is the first of several vessels from shipping line Wilson ASA that combine diesel electric propulsion, with the option for conversion to future green fuels, providing a significantly more efficient and sustainable short sea shipping service.

The general cargo ship had travelled from Klaipeda delivering fertiliser for customer Thomas Bell to the eastern UK port. Launched in April 2025, there will be another 12 vessels as part of the ECO series.

Andrew Dawes, Regional Director for the Humber ports said: “As one of the UK’s busiest ports, we’re proud to support vessels, like the Wilson Eco I, that demonstrate innovation in cleaner shipping. We’re delighted to work alongside progressive customers like Thomas Bell that are looking to use greener methods of transportation in a move towards a more sustainable maritime future. This visit reflects our commitment to enabling the energy transition and working with partners who share our ambition to reduce emissions and drive greener logistics across the Humber and beyond.”

Thomas Bell was one of the first receivers of cargo transported aboard the Wilson Eco I. The vessel represents a new era in shipping, with its diesel-electric propulsion system, new hull design and readiness for wind-assisted technology. It achieves a remarkable 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to IMO’s 2025 standards.

Andrew Major, Managing Director at Thomas Bell said: "Receiving our fertiliser cargo on board the Wilson Eco I is a proud milestone for Thomas Bell. This vessel sets a new benchmark in sustainable shipping, and being among the first receivers reflects our commitment to reducing emissions while maintaining operational excellence."

Thomas Bell & Sons Ltd are the largest privately owned independent importer, supplier, and manufacturer of fertilisers in the UK. Based in Brigg, North Lincolnshire, the company has evolved from its origins as local agricultural millers and grain merchants into a national leader in fertiliser distribution.

As part of its long-term sustainability strategy, Thomas Bell continues to invest in greener logistics, energy-efficient technologies and responsible sourcing - supporting environmental goals across the supply chain.

Thomas Bell offers a wide range of high-quality fertilisers from precision compounds to quality straights and blends - operating from key ABP ports including Immingham, Newport, and Ipswich.

Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK’s largest port operator launched its £2 billion "Ready for Tomorrow" sustainability strategy, with the Humber at the heart of its green transformation. The initiative will drive decarbonisation across ABP’s operations by 2040 and significantly expand green energy generation, including offshore wind and clean fuel infrastructure.

In the Humber, ABP is investing in projects that support industrial decarbonisation, hydrogen innovation, and carbon capture, reinforcing the region’s role as a national leader in the UK’s energy transition. The strategy also prioritises air quality, biodiversity, waste, and water management, delivering long-term environmental and economic benefits for local communities.