Over the year, APL’s new contract is likely to see about 78,000m3 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.

Tony Pollock, APL’s head of operations UK & 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.”

This new business win adds APL to a client list which includes Hanjin, MSC, Marfret, OOCL, Stinnes Linien, Tarros and Sloman Neptun.