Port Oostende takes next step in its growth process
Nectar Group new player in port of Oostende
Today Port Oostende and Nectar Group are pleased to announce they have entered into a cooperation agreement. Nectar is a leading UK-based port operator and expert in cargo handling, with activities in many locations in Africa and Asia. The Group is now taking steps to cement its position as an operator by contributing to the development of trade through the port of Oostende and UK.
The ambition of Port Oostende is to offer a competitive service with regards to the loading and unloading of ships and to increase its maritime traffic. The arrival of an additional, established operator contributes towards this.
Nectar will occupy a site in the outer port and will invest in handling equipment, including a mobile harbour crane to efficiently load and unload vessels. In the first phase Nectar Group will focus in Oostende on LOLO (lift-on/lift-off) activities primarily related to breakbulk cargo.
Nectar Group has worked in 75 countries and celebrates its 50th anniversary during 2022. The Group handles approximately 7 million tonnes of cargo annually. As a leading international provider of innovative and cost-effective solutions for handling bulk and breakbulk cargoes, the new company in Belgium will be Nectar’s first operational subsidiary in Europe. It is envisaged that operations will commence this summer.
With the arrival of this independent global player the range of cargo handlers in the port of Oostende is enriched. This is an important step in attracting new additional traffic and contributing to development of bulk and breakbulk cargoes with the UK ports.
"The arrival of Nectar Group proves that Port Oostende is a good breeding ground for both SMEs and international players. Port Oostende is fully committed to realising additional traffic and we are confident that this is a step in the right direction! The arrival of Nectar Group will also benefit employment in Oostende.”
"After attracting companies in Plassendale I in recent years, the focus for the coming years will be on attracting new maritime traffic. We are therefore very pleased with the choice of Nectar Group for Port Oostende.”
“Nectar Group are delighted to have the opportunity to work together with Port Oostende. We are excited to be playing a part in the next stage of the development of the port through the provision of high class, competitive services to port users. Port’s direct access to sea and Nectar’s presence in the UK will provide opportunities to develop additional breakbulk and bulk trades between Oostende and UK.”
Port Oostende
Port Oostende focuses on continuity, growth and employment within five pillars: Blue Economy, Bulk & Project Cargo, Cruises & Roll-On Roll-Off, Circular Industry and the Fisheries Sector. These sectors are further expanded on the basis of two foundations: prioritising safety, health and the environment and second supporting innovation and development.