DP World is launching a new Morocco to UK and Northern Europe service that will reduce export times for fruit and vegetable shipments by up to two days. The service, called "Atlas," will connect Agadir and Casablanca with DP World-owned terminals at London Gateway and Antwerp Gateway, using two dedicated vessels starting in November 2025.
By shifting up to 150,000 tons of produce from road to sea annually, the route is expected to lower costs, improve quality upon arrival, and reduce emissions. DP World estimates the new logistics solution will cut emissions by up to 250 kg CO₂ per ton-km, a 70% reduction compared to trucking.
© Government of Dubai
The sea route avoids congestion, vandalism, and delays at road borders, while providing smoother handling for produce such as tomatoes and blueberries. The service also offers an alternative to busy crossings between Tangier and Algeciras and Calais and Dover.
The service will use Unifeeder vessels and refrigerated containers. DP World has invested in 1,250 new reefers, 1,000 40-foot high cube containers, and 750 20-foot containers to support demand for both fresh produce and general cargo flows. Full visibility will be provided through DP World's CARGOES digital platform.
Rashid Abdulla, MD and CEO of DP World Europe, said: "We are launching a bespoke solution from Morocco to the UK and the Continent. The key elements of this service -- reliability, fast transit times, and modern IT platform -- will provide exporters and retailers with a viable alternative to the current transportation by truck and ensure improved quality produce at lower cost with significantly reduced carbon emissions."
Morocco exports more than 6.5 million tons of fruit and vegetables annually to Western Europe, with volumes growing at more than 20% year-on-year. Trade agreements and supportive policies continue to encourage sea freight alternatives.
Markus Rodatz, COO, Freight Europe, at DP World, added: "We are committed to building smarter, more sustainable and more resilient supply chains. The new service gives growers and retailers the confidence that their produce will arrive fresher, faster, and in peak condition, while cutting emissions by 70%. By investing in Morocco to the UK and the Continent, we are making trade flow and helping our customers meet their sustainability goals."
DP World will formally launch the new service at an event in Agadir on 18 September.
For more information:
Government of Dubai
Tel: +971 (0) 4 383 3333
Email: [email protected]
www.mediaoffice.ae