Gemini Cooperation Promotes Supply Chain at DP World UK

DP World continues to secure its position as a key UK logistics hub, operating major ports at Southampton and London Gateway with multimodal transport links, seamless global connectivity and advanced supply chain solutions. 

After receiving the inaugural ship under the Gemini Cooperation at DP World Southampton on 3 February 2025, London Gateway has also received its first ship under the collaboration - the Maersk Stadelhorn.

The ship that arrived was part of the Gemini ME2/IEX India-Europe service that connects the UK to ports in Tanger Med, Hamburg, Colombo, Algeciras, Kamarajar and Rotterdam.

The Gemini Cooperation is a strategic alliance between international shipping organisations Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk that will improve connectivity between key markets, improve sustainability in East-West trade routes and streamline maritime logistics.

Ernst Schulze, UK Chief Executive Officer for Ports & Terminals at DP World, states: “The arrival of the Maersk Stadelhorn is a testament to the Gemini Cooperation’s confidence in DP World’s UK container terminals and global supply chain solutions network.

“The Asia-Europe service will enhance vital international trade routes at London Gateway, advancing our ambition to make the logistics hub the UK’s largest container port within the next five years." 

The Gemini Cooperation

The Gemini Cooperation is a shipping partnership from Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk that was launched in February 2025.

The alliance aims to optimise East-West trade routes while enhancing reliability, efficiency and sustainability in global container shipping.

With a capacity of up to 3.7 million TEU and 57 services across the world, the partnership will make global supply chains more agile and resilient by improving vessel efficiency, service reliability and emissions reduction.

The Gemini Cooperation reported it reached 90% service reliability in its first month of operation.

Gemini vessels will call at DP World’s deep sea container ports at London Gateway and Southampton. 

Gary Jeffreys, Managing Director – Maersk UK & Ireland, explains: “It is fantastic to witness our new network brought to life in the UK. London Gateway will play a key role in our service to our customers, as we unlock the benefits of a reliable, flexible and a more agile Ocean network better adjusted to the needs of the supply chains of the future.” 

The importance of efficiency in maritime logistics

Efficiency is vital in maritime logistics for supply chain reliability, cost reduction and environmental sustainability.

Not only does efficient route planning and scheduling prevent bottlenecks to maintain supply chain reliability, it also enables faster turnover to enhance global supply chain movement.

Smart logistics hubs and port automation increase throughput and reduce handling times, while digitalisation and AI enhances route planning and real-time tracking. 

The Gemini Cooperation will enhance efficiency in maritime logistics by utilising DP World’s advanced port infrastructure and consolidating operations.

DP World’s London Gateway and Southampton will improve turnaround times by handling larger and more efficient vessels. 

DP World will also be able to offer more dependable logistics solutions through well-planned and consistent services that minimise supply chain disruptions.

Allowing fewer larger vessels to run on routes will support DP World’s sustainability goals by reducing emissions per TEU.

By handling Gemini’s UK-bound cargo, DP World will widen its logistics network, unlock further investment opportunities in smart port technologies and become a core hub for global container traffic.

What impact will this have on the global supply chain?

The Gemini Cooperation will improve trade flow, optimise shipping routes and reduce delays across the world. 

DP World’s ports at London Gateway and Southampton will help improve cost efficiency and turnaround times by handling greater volumes of cargo.

The partnership will also connect Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East with ease to enhance global trade connectvity.

DP World and Gemini will also enhance their sustainability efforts by using optimised logistics and larger vessels. 

The organisations are setting a benchmark for sustainable, resilient and cost-effective supply chains and maritime logistics.

Cameron Bowie, Managing Director – Hapag-Lloyd UK & Ireland, says: “The Middle East and India trade is one that has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years and Hapag-Lloyd is proud to have been a leader in its expansion through investment and the introduction of vessels with greater market coverage and carrying capacity. 

“Our IOS and IEX services on this trade have used London Gateway for the past 10 years and I am delighted that the new Gemini Cooperation will continue to call at London Gateway and further strengthen the strong operational partnership with DP World.” 

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