A LEADING cargo handler at the port of Southampton has invested £2.4million in heavy machinery – and named some of it after staff’s children.

Solent Stevedores is spending the money to support growth at Solent Rail Terminal in the Western Docks.

It is funding three Kalmar Reach Stackers, which pile containers at the docks, and 10 Terberg Tug tractor vehicles.

The business was founded in Southampton more than 20 years ago and said its values had inspired it to name its top-of-the-range machinery after some of the employees’ children.

The reach stackers will bear the names Poppy, Ella Louise and Emily May.

Tom Dynes, director of Solent Stevedores, said: “This investment underlines our commitment to the future of rail freight as well as our customers through delivering significant service improvements.

“Having the names of the next generation of Solent Stevedores emblazoned on the machinery is a fitting nod to our strong family-run company values.”

Solent Stevedores specialises in rail, bulk, project cargo and cruise stevedoring.

It was revealed in August that the business was investing in upgrading 10 tractor units and three reach stackers with the support of a seven-figure finance package from Lloyds Bank.

The move came in response to increased demand for transporting goods in and out of Southampton by rail.

Stuart Cullen, executive chairman of Solent Stevedores, said then: “We operate in a diverse portfolio of markets and locations and it’s important that we continue to invest in the latest equipment and technology to ensure that our operations continue to perform to the high standards our customers expect.

“Although the pandemic impacted our cruise operations in Southampton and Singapore, our ability to swiftly adapt and embrace new opportunities in the train freight industry has allowed us to continue our growth ambitions.”

Solent Stevedores has long-term contracts at the Port of Southampton, the River Thames, DP World London Gateway, the Port of St Helier in Jersey and the Port of Immingham.

It has 200 staff in Southampton, Dursley, London, Immingham, Jersey and Singapore.