S Jones Containers claims contract win

APL, the world's fifth biggest container shipping line, has awarded S Jones Containers an ongoing contract for container handling, inspection, repair and storage at its base in Aldridge.

The new business win adds APL to an impressive client list for SJC which includes Hanjin, MSC, Marfret, OOCL, Stinnes Linien, Tarros and Sloman Neptun.

Over the year, APL's new contract is likely to see around 78,000 cubic metres (over 2.75 million cubic ft) of cargo space pass through SJC's 12-acre depot.

Andy Cargill, depot manager at S Jones Containers, said: "This is a very important new client for us. Not only have we won a valuable customer in a fiercely competitive marketplace, we have done so at a time when the shipping industry is growing again.

"Generally shipping lines have struggled a great deal in recent years and have represented a smaller percentage of our work than they have done historically, so it's been very satisfying to see an upturn in the amount of work we receive from our shipping line customers. Having another of the world's top 10 shipping lines join us is really the icing on the cake."

Tony Pollock, APL's head of operations UK and Ireland, said: "After a relationship spanning almost 20 years, APL has taken the difficult and unprecedented decision to move its container depot services in the West Midlands from our previous supplier to S Jones' depot in Aldridge.

"This move will continue to offer APL the empty equipment services required for its container operations, in a strategically good area, at the right cost, while also allowing us to continue to support our customers with their needs.

"We are looking forward to another long and mutually beneficial relationship, and are extremely pleased with the service and customer focus we have received from S Jones."

Andy Cargill said: "We have always provided our customers with the highest possible customer service levels and we do so in a way that means every customer feels important and gets exactly the type of service they need.

"We build strong relationships with our customers and it is the strength of these relationships that stands both S Jones and our customers in such good stead."

In 2014, S Jones Containers, a fourth generation, family-owned business, celebrated its centenary after a record year of container sales, hire, conversions contracts and storage of shipping containers.