The Port of London contributes £3.7 billion to the economy and generates over 46,000 full time jobs, according to figures published by the Port of London Authority (PLA).
Figures show that each year the Port handles over 50 million tonnes of cargo, generating jobs for manufacturing workers, cargo handlers, drivers, warehouse staff and ships’ agents.
Plants whose operations depend on the Port as part of their supply chain include Tate & Lyle, the raw cane sugar for which comes from Mauritius, Fiji and the Caribbean; Petroplus, importing crude oil for refining into an array of fuels; and Ford, which supplies by sea diesel engines made at Dagenham to factories in Europe.
Simon Sherrard, chairman of the PLA, which this year celebrates its centenary, commented: “This study shows how vital the Port is to the modern London economy. It is generating employment for 46,000 people whose work ensures that we all have the goods, food and fuel we need for our daily lives. The value added as materials are processed and products exported from the Port are a key to London’s manufacturing base.
“The great news is that the future of the Port looks strong. Despite the current challenging economic times, significant investment is planned, valued at over £4.8 billion over the next ten years.”
