‘Big Four’ terminal companies handle quarter of boxes

   The big four global container terminal operators remain PSA International, Hutchison Ports, APM Terminals and DP World, but with varying levels of activity according to Drewry’s Annual Review of Global Container Terminals Operators.
   The four have about 26 percent of global throughput.
   The London-based consultants said “DP World and APM Terminals are highly active in terms of acquisitions, divestments and greenfield developments, Hutchison moderately active and PSA less so. ICTSI and TIL are also particularly active in terms of portfolio expansion. There is a clear focus on growth opportunities in emerging markets by those global/international terminal operators which are expanding.”
   “Within the global/international terminal operator club there are widely varying strategies and levels of activity. Some operators are very active with their portfolios whilst others are seeing little change,” said the report’s editor, Neil Davidson. “More M&A activity is highly likely, especially in carrier owned portfolios. Plus, waiting in the wings, there are a number of aggressive new players, some of which will soon qualify as global/international operators”
   The report noted several major shipping lines have sold stakes in terminals to raise cash – but usually retaining majority control. IT said the deals involving CMA CGM’s Terminal Link and MSC/TIL have been the most significant.
   “Most carriers have seen little change in their terminal portfolios as a result, adopting a holding rather than expansion policy,” the company said.
   It said several players not currently categorized by Drewry as global/international terminal operators are growing fast and have a strong appetite for international expansion, including China Merchants, Gulftainer, Bolloré and Yildirim. Others, such as GPI, SAAM Ports, Ultramar and Ports America, are also making select expansions or seeking to acquire. Certain key financial and infrastructure investors are also active, notably GIP and Mitsui.
   Drewry’s list of the 10 largest terminal operators can be seen here. – Chris Dupin