Peel Ports Group is undertaking a significant digital transformation across its dry bulk terminals, a strategic initiative bolstered by a £4 million investment and powered by TBA’s CommTrac system. This forward-thinking program is already garnering industry acclaim, setting a new precedent for managing bulk cargo operations at some of the United Kingdom’s most vital ports.

Establishing a New Standard for Bulk Operations

This comprehensive program is being systematically implemented at key Peel Ports locations, including:

* Port of Liverpool
* Port of Birkenhead
* Runcorn Docks
* King George V Dock, Glasgow

Collectively, these terminals handle millions of tonnes of dry bulk cargo annually. This project represents one of the most extensive operational transformation efforts ever undertaken by Peel Ports Group, with the following key objectives:

* Halving stock losses across all dry bulk terminals.
* Reducing revenue leakage by up to 3%.
* Enhancing operational accuracy, system resilience, and customer service levels.

Achieving Fully Connected Digital Operations

At the core of this transformation is CommTrac, TBA’s advanced terminal operating system. It seamlessly integrates weighbridges, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) gate systems, driver self-service kiosks, and handheld devices into a unified, fully integrated platform. This integration digitizes and tracks every cargo movement in real-time, from the initial vessel discharge through to final customer dispatch.

Key enhancements for drivers include:

* Streamlined check-in processes via ANPR.
* Efficient dispatch confirmation through self-service kiosks.
* Accurate load recording utilizing mobile devices.

These advancements effectively eliminate manual data entry, significantly minimizing the potential for errors.

Fostering Infrastructure, Data, and Workforce Flexibility

The digital transformation is further supported by a broad upgrade of existing infrastructure. This ensures the network is robust and prepared for future integration of predictive planning tools and smart service delivery capabilities. Furthermore, the standardization of systems and processes across all sites allows employees to transition smoothly between terminals. This promotes enhanced flexibility, greater resilience, and consistent service delivery across the entire group.

Industry Recognition for Innovation

The program has already earned significant industry recognition, most notably winning the Innovative Technology Award at the International Bulk Journal (IBJ) Awards. This accolade acknowledges the program’s ambition and its substantial impact on the sector.

Executive Perspectives

Gavin Laybourne, Chief Technology and Information Officer at Peel Ports Group, commented: “This initiative marks a major milestone in our digital transformation journey. It is the culmination of a highly successful partnership with TBA. Our new technology empowers us to prioritize customer needs and leverage data-driven insights. We are establishing a new industry benchmark and revolutionizing how we serve our customers. Receiving recognition at the IBJ Awards is a fantastic endorsement of our efforts.”

Chris Hicks, Managing Director of TBA Doncaster, added: “Partnering with Peel Ports Group on this transformative journey has been a privilege. Together, we are deploying cutting-edge technology to build a smarter, more interconnected, and future-ready port network. This is a clear example of innovation with a defined purpose.”

Enhancing Real-Time Mobile Operations

The transformation is further augmented by the CommTrac mobile app, which provides:

* Access to real-time operational data.
* Accelerated load recording capabilities.
* Improved situational awareness for operational teams.

By equipping frontline teams with live information directly on their mobile devices, the app significantly boosts speed, accuracy, and efficiency within dynamic terminal environments.

Peel Ports Group transforms bulk cargo operations with £4m digital partnership