PD Logistics, a division of PD Ports, has won a contract with the UK's largest independent drinks manufacturer and distributor, Halewood International, to handle all imports of Tsingtao beer from China.

The containers will be received at the port of Felixstowe and unloaded into PD Logistics' 500,000 sqft (46,451 sqm) onsite warehouse facility for bonded storage before dispatch.

Halewood International sales controller James Wright says the company was looking for a partner which offered a large, bonded warehouse facility close to the port that enabled it to maximise its supply chain efficiency.

"We were aware of the excellent reputation of PD Logistics' bonded facility and the comprehensive shipping connections enjoyed by the Port of Felixstowe. The decision was easy to make and we look forward to what we hope will be a long and fruitful relationship with PD Logistics," Wright says.

The contract with Halewood International will increase the volume of bonded products that PD Logistics currently handles at its facility. Thus, PD Logistics has expanded its wet bond area from 80,000 sqft (7,432 sqm) to 165,000 sqft (15,329 sqm) to accommodate the imported beer and allow for further expansion in the market.

Jerry Hopkinson, managing director of bulks, ports and logistics for PD Ports, says the agreement marks an "important milestone" for PD Logistics' warehouse operations at Felixstowe and reinforces its position as an important wet bond facility and major import centre for bonded beers, wines and spirits.

"In today's economic climate, many companies are looking to drive down costs with the handling and storage of products at a port-based logistics centre. It is increasingly recognised as a cost-effective and viable supply chain solution," he says.

According to PD Logistics, Tsingtao is the fifth-fastest growing premium packaged lager in the world and the 10th-largest beer brand worldwide. It has a substantial and loyal customer base in the UK Chinese restaurant market and is already appearing on supermarket shelves.

Halewood International, based in Merseyside, manufactures and distributes some of the UK's best-known alcoholic drinks brands from Lambs Navy Rum to Crabbies Alcoholic Ginger Beer and Red Square Vodka.

PD Logistics offers warehousing and distribution services in the UK. It is a part of PD Ports Ltd, a supply chain services provider with over 1,140 employees and an annual turnover of over GBP120 million (USD180.4 million).

PD Ports declined to disclose the value of the contract.