Associated British Ports (ABP), which operates 21 ports in the UK including those at Ipswich and Lowestoft, has announced that it is has become Suffolk Chamber of Commerce’s latest patron – the 15th such arrangement.
Suffolk Chamber patronage involves companies entering into a closer and more strategic relationship with the Chamber aimed at maximising mutual benefits and opportunities.
John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, welcomed ABP’s decision “we are the voice of all businesses in the county, representing all market sectors and companies of different sizes and at different stages in their evolution.
“It is a massive vote of confidence in the value this Chamber delivers to its members and the wider Suffolk business community that a company of such major national and regional importance has decided to deepen its relationship with us and our network.”
ABP’s Ipswich operation handles 2.6 million tonnes of cargo – mainly aggregates, grain, animal feed, fertilisers, forestry and cement products, whilst the operation at Lowestoft handles around 100,000 tonnes each year and is home to the operation and maintenance base for the Greater Gabbard Offshore wind farm.
John Dugmore added “with Suffolk Chamber actively assisting the business community to improve it international trade successes, ABP’s patronage offers a key relationship that will add further insights and expertise to our offering.”
ABP Short Sea Ports Director Andrew Harston said: “ABP has had a long-standing working relationship with Suffolk Chamber of Commerce and we are delighted to underpin our partnership by becoming the 15th patron of the Chamber.
“The ports of Ipswich and Lowestoft look forward to working with the Suffolk Chamber and their members to continue to drive trade and growth in the region.”
For more information about Suffolk Chamber’s patronage scheme and to view all 15 patrons, please go to: https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/about-us/suffolk-chamber-patrons/