Jump to content

PD Ports: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
Dates
Added short description
Tags: Mobile edit Mobile app edit Android app edit App description add
 
(26 intermediate revisions by 19 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|Shipping and logistics company in the UK}}
{{Use British English|date=October 2013}}
{{Use British English|date=October 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2021}}
{{Infobox company
{{Infobox company
| name = PD Ports
| name = PD Ports
| logo =
| logo = PD Ports - Brookfield Ports Co logo.jpg
| caption =
| caption =
| type = Private company
| type = Private company
Line 39: Line 40:
'''PD Ports''' is a [[Middlesbrough]], UK headquartered [[port]], shipping and logistics company; owner of [[Teesport]], and ports at [[Hartlepool]], [[Howden]] and [[Keadby]]; with additional operations at the [[Port of Felixstowe]], [[Port of Immingham]], and [[Port of Hull]].
'''PD Ports''' is a [[Middlesbrough]], UK headquartered [[port]], shipping and logistics company; owner of [[Teesport]], and ports at [[Hartlepool]], [[Howden]] and [[Keadby]]; with additional operations at the [[Port of Felixstowe]], [[Port of Immingham]], and [[Port of Hull]].


Formerly known as '''Powell Duffryn,''' it traces its origins to a [[coal mining]] company founded by Thomas Powell in the 19th century in the [[South Wales coalfield]]. After Thomas Powell's death in 1863 the company operated as the '''Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company''' having been amalgamated into the business of [[Sir George Elliot, 1st Baronet|Sir George Elliot]]. During the latter part of the 19th and early 20th centuries, the company expanded its mining activities, also acquiring shipping firm [[Stephenson Clarke]] in 1928. After number of colliery acquisitions and a merger with the Welsh Associated Collieries in 1935 it became '''Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries''' In 1947 the main coal mining division of the business was nationalised into the [[National Coal Board]]. The remainder of the company diversified, mainly into shipping and engineering, and acquired the ports of Tees and Hartlepool in the 1990s. Restructuring in the late 1990s/early 2000s resulted in the sale of engineering businesses and a focus on port operations.
Formerly known as '''Powell Duffryn''', it traces its origins to a [[coal mining]] company founded by [[Thomas Powell (mine owner)|Thomas Powell]] in the 19th century in the [[South Wales coalfield]]. After Thomas Powell's death in 1863 the company operated as the '''Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company''' having been amalgamated into the business of [[Sir George Elliot, 1st Baronet|Sir George Elliot]]. During the latter part of the 19th and early 20th centuries, the company expanded its mining activities, also acquiring shipping firm [[Stephenson Clarke]] in 1928. After number of colliery acquisitions and a merger with the Welsh Associated Collieries in 1935 it became '''Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries''' In 1947 the main coal mining division of the business was nationalised into the [[National Coal Board]]. The remainder of the company diversified, mainly into shipping and engineering, and acquired the ports of Tees and Hartlepool in the 1990s. Restructuring in the late 1990s/early 2000s resulted in the sale of engineering businesses and a focus on port operations.


The company was acquired in 2000 by Nikko Principal Investments Japan Ltd., a unit of [[Nikko Cordial]] Corp. of Japan. In 2003 the company re-branded as '''PD Ports'''. In 2005 the company was acquired by infrastructure division of [[Babcock & Brown]], and then sold [[Brookfield Asset Management]] in 2009.
The company was acquired in 2000 by Nikko Principal Investments Japan Ltd., a unit of [[Nikko Cordial]] Corp. of Japan.<ref>{{cite web|date=16 November 2000|title=Powell Duffryn's new owner plans disposal of engineering division|url=https://www.theengineer.co.uk/powell-duffryns-new-owner-plans-disposal-of-engineering-division/|access-date=2 July 2021|website=The Engineer}}</ref> In 2003 the company re-branded as '''PD Ports'''.<ref>{{cite web|date=27 February 2003|title=Company moves with the times|url=https://www.ipswichstar.co.uk/news/company-moves-with-the-times-7419504|access-date=2 July 2021|website=Ipswich Star}}</ref> In 2005 the company was acquired by infrastructure division of [[Babcock & Brown]],<ref>{{cite web|date=1 February 2006|title=Babcock & Brown completes PD Ports takeover|url=https://www.freightwaves.com/news/babcock-brown-completes-pd-ports-takeover|access-date=2 July 2021|website=FreightWaves}}</ref> and then sold to [[Brookfield Asset Management]] in 2009.<ref>{{cite web|title=Brookfield Buys PD Ports {{!}} JOC.com|url=https://www.joc.com/maritime-news/brookfield-buys-pd-ports_20091120.html|access-date=2 July 2021|website=www.joc.com}}</ref>


==History==
==History==
Line 48: Line 49:
The business started in [[Newport, Wales|Newport]], Wales in the late 18th century as by [[Thomas Powell (mine owner)|Thomas Powell]] who had inherited the family business at the age of 14 on his father's death – in 1810 Powell acquired land in [[Llanhilleth]] and began coal mining.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
The business started in [[Newport, Wales|Newport]], Wales in the late 18th century as by [[Thomas Powell (mine owner)|Thomas Powell]] who had inherited the family business at the age of 14 on his father's death – in 1810 Powell acquired land in [[Llanhilleth]] and began coal mining.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}


Powell expanded his coal business, opening several collieries in the Newport area – by 1830 Powell's business had become successful – aided by the increasing demand for coal in [[Steam engines]]; good transport connections via the [[River Severn]] and canal system, and later by the railways; and by the high quality of the Welsh coal. Removal of a coal export tax in the 1830s allowed Powell to more widely export the coal, and compete for the market in northern England.{{sfn|Gant|2000}} The company's first deep mine was sunk at [[Cwmbach]], Aberdare in 1840, opening further mines in both [[Aberdare]] and the [[Rhymney Valley]] in the following decades.<ref name="lib1">{{cite web| url=http://webapps.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk/heritagetrail/english/rhondda/powellduffryn.html| title = THE POWELL DUFFRYN STEAM COAL CO. LTD.| publisher = Rhondda Cynon Taf Library Service|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref> Together with [[Thomas Prothero]] and John Latch he formed the first South Wales coal syndicate in 1833, the "Newport Coal Association".<ref name="bio1">{{cite web| title= POWELL, THOMAS ( 1779? – 1863 )| work = Welsh Biography Online| first = Walter Thomas| last = Morgan| url = http://wbo.llgc.org.uk/en/s1-POWE-THO-1779.html|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref>
Powell expanded his coal business, opening several collieries in the Newport area – by 1830 Powell's business had become successful – aided by the increasing demand for coal in [[steam engines]]; good transport connections via the [[River Severn]] and canal system, and later by the railways; and by the high quality of the Welsh coal. Removal of a coal export tax in the 1830s allowed Powell to more widely export the coal, and compete for the market in northern England.{{sfn|Gant|2000}} The company's first deep mine was sunk at [[Cwmbach]], Aberdare in 1840, opening further mines in both [[Aberdare]] and the [[Rhymney Valley]] in the following decades.<ref name="lib1">{{cite web| url=http://webapps.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk/heritagetrail/english/rhondda/powellduffryn.html| title = THE POWELL DUFFRYN STEAM COAL CO. LTD.| publisher = Rhondda Cynon Taf Library Service|access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref> Together with [[Thomas Prothero]] and John Latch he formed the first South Wales coal syndicate in 1833, the "Newport Coal Association".<ref name="bio1">{{cite DWB| title= POWELL, THOMAS ( 1779? – 1863 )| first = Walter Thomas| last = Morgan| id=s1-POWE-THO-1779 |access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref>


From the 1830s Powell began assembling his own shipping fleet, and also invested £20,000 in the [[Taff Vale Railway]]. By the 1840s Powell's mining interests were the amongst the world's largest coal producers. ''Powell's Duffryn'' was one of Thomas Powell's companies (Dyffrn meaning literally "Valley").{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
From the 1830s Powell began assembling his own shipping fleet, and also invested £20,000 in the [[Taff Vale Railway]]. By the 1840s Powell's mining interests were the amongst the world's largest coal producers. ''Powell's Duffryn'' was one of Thomas Powell's companies (Dyffrn meaning literally "Valley").{{sfn|Gant|2000}}


Powell's mine condition's were poor, leading to a number of explosions in the 1850s. In 1858 Powell cut wages by 15% resulting in strikes which were met with strike breaking methods; [[Strikebreaker]] labour was introduced from England.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
Powell's mine conditions were poor, leading to a number of explosions in the 1850s. In 1858 Powell cut wages by 15% resulting in strikes which were met with strike breaking methods; [[Strikebreaker]] labour was introduced from England.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}


By 1862 he controlled 16 mines, which exported more than 700,000 tons of coal.<ref name="bio1"/> Shortly before his death he arranged the merger of his business interests with those of [[Sir George Elliot, 1st Baronet|Sir George Elliott]], forming the ''Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company Ltd'' in 1863 with a capital of £500,000.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
By 1862 Powell controlled 16 mines, which exported more than 700,000 tons of coal.<ref name="bio1"/> Shortly before his death he arranged the merger of his business interests with those of [[Sir George Elliot, 1st Baronet|Sir George Elliott]], forming the ''Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company Ltd'' in 1863 with a capital of £500,000.{{sfn|Gant|2000}} Powell died 24 March 1863.<ref name="bio1"/>

Thomas Powell died 24 March 1863.<ref name="bio1"/>


===Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company Ltd (1863–1935)===
===Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company Ltd (1863–1935)===
Line 62: Line 61:
In 1867 the company acquired the [[Aberaman]] Estate from iron master [[Crawshay Bailey]], the land of which held much good quality 'steam coal'.<ref name="lib1"/> By the 1900s the company had begun generating electricity and utilising it in mining.{{sfn|Gant|2000}} In 1916, [[Edmund Mills Hann|E.M Hann]] was made a director of the company. After the [[First World War]] he drove the development of the company, acquiring all the adjoining collieries (Aberaman, Lletysiencyn, Abernant, Gadlys and Blaengwawr), succeeding in sinking every one of the company's collieries in the Aberdare Valley to the lowest seam. The company started a joint venture in the shipping industry with Stephenson and Clarke in 1920, later acquiring their partners outright by 1928.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
In 1867 the company acquired the [[Aberaman]] Estate from iron master [[Crawshay Bailey]], the land of which held much good quality 'steam coal'.<ref name="lib1"/> By the 1900s the company had begun generating electricity and utilising it in mining.{{sfn|Gant|2000}} In 1916, [[Edmund Mills Hann|E.M Hann]] was made a director of the company. After the [[First World War]] he drove the development of the company, acquiring all the adjoining collieries (Aberaman, Lletysiencyn, Abernant, Gadlys and Blaengwawr), succeeding in sinking every one of the company's collieries in the Aberdare Valley to the lowest seam. The company started a joint venture in the shipping industry with Stephenson and Clarke in 1920, later acquiring their partners outright by 1928.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}


The company expanded by acquisition of land and construction of pits, including the [[Rhymney Iron Company]], the [[Windsor Colliery]], collieries from [[Lewis Morthyr]], the [[Great Western Colliery Company]] and the [[Nantgawr Colliery]]; all acquired in the 1920s.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
The company expanded by acquisition of land and construction of pits, including the Rhymney Iron Company, the Windsor Colliery, collieries from Lewis Morthyr, the Great Western Colliery Company and the Nantgawr Colliery; all acquired in the 1920s.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}


===Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries (1935–47)===
===Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries (1935–47)===
In 1935, Powell Duffryn merged with the [[Welsh Associated Collieries]], who owned 34 collieries, and formed the joint venture company ''Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries'', which had an output of 20 million tons p.a. The merged company included the [[Cambrian Wagon Works]], adding an engineering arm to the business.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
In 1935, Powell Duffryn merged with the Welsh Associated Collieries, who owned 34 collieries, and formed the joint venture company ''Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries'', which had an output of 20 million tons p.a. The merged company included the Cambrian Wagon Works, adding an engineering arm to the business.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}


During the [[Second World War]] the companies' engineering subsidiary expanded in order to fulfill military orders. The 12 colliery [[Cory Brothers & Co. Ltd]] was acquired in 1942,{{sfn|Gant|2000}} forming ''Powell Duffryn Ltd.''.<ref name="lib1"/>
During the [[Second World War]] the companies' engineering subsidiary expanded in order to fulfill military orders. The 12 colliery Cory Brothers & Co. Ltd was acquired in 1942,{{sfn|Gant|2000}} forming ''Powell Duffryn Ltd.''.<ref name="lib1"/>


===Nationalisation, Powell Duffryn (1947–2003)===
===Nationalisation, Powell Duffryn (1947–2003)===
In 1946 the [[Coal Industry Nationalisation Act 1946]] led to the formation of the [[National Coal Board]], which took over the companies coal business – after a decade of negotiation Powell Duffryn was paid £16&nbsp;million for the assets.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
In 1946 the [[Coal Industry Nationalisation Act 1946]] led to the formation of the [[National Coal Board]], which took over the companies coal business – after a decade of negotiation Powell Duffryn was paid £16&nbsp;million for the assets.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}


The firm diversified, expanding its former secondary interests: engineering, fuel distribution and shipping.{{sfn|Gant|2000}} Additional interests included timber, quarries, and brickmaking. Engineering interests included ''Powell Duffryn Engineering'' in [[Llantrisant]] and the ''Powell Duffryn Wagon Company''.<ref name="lib1"/> [[Hamworthy Engineering]] was acquired in 1962.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
The firm diversified, expanding its former secondary interests: engineering, fuel distribution and shipping.{{sfn|Gant|2000}} Additional interests included timber, quarries, and brickmaking. Engineering interests included ''Powell Duffryn Engineering'' in [[Llantrisant]] and the ''Powell Duffryn Wagon Company''.<ref name="lib1"/> Hamworthy Engineering was acquired in 1962.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}


By the 1980s the company was showing good profitability; the [[Hanson Trust]] made an unsuccessful takeover attempt in 1984. From the late 1980s onwards the company disposed of its railway, shipping and bulk liquid assets: [[Stephenson Clarke Shipping|Stephenson Clarke]] was sold; the loss making railway engineering division was closed in 1993/4; much of the fuel distribution and storage assets were sold between 1996 and 1998.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
By the 1980s the company was showing good profitability; the [[Hanson Trust]] made an unsuccessful takeover attempt in 1984. From the late 1980s onwards the company disposed of its railway, shipping and bulk liquid assets: [[Stephenson Clarke Shipping|Stephenson Clarke]] was sold; the loss making railway engineering division was closed in 1993/4; much of the fuel distribution and storage assets were sold between 1996 and 1998.{{sfn|Gant|2000}}
Line 78: Line 77:
In 1998 the ship engineering arm was expanded by the purchase of "Kvaerner Ships Equipment" (KSE) for £34&nbsp;million from the [[Kvaerner]] shipping group.{{citation needed|date=December 2013}}
In 1998 the ship engineering arm was expanded by the purchase of "Kvaerner Ships Equipment" (KSE) for £34&nbsp;million from the [[Kvaerner]] shipping group.{{citation needed|date=December 2013}}


In 1992 the Tees and Hartlepool Port Authority (THPA) (see [[Teesport]] and [[Port of Hartlepool]]) was acquired by Powell Duffryn Plc, [[3i]], and Humberside Holdings Limited in 1992; Powell Duffryn became sole owner in 1995.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.pdports.co.uk/en/corporate/about-us/company-history/|title = Company History| work = www.pdports.co.uk|accessdate = 5 January 2014}}</ref>
In 1992 the Tees and Hartlepool Port Authority (THPA) (see [[Teesport]] and Port of [[Hartlepool]]) was acquired by Powell Duffryn Plc, [[3i]], and Humberside Holdings Limited in 1992; Powell Duffryn became sole owner in 1995.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.pdports.co.uk/en/corporate/about-us/company-history/|title = Company History| work = www.pdports.co.uk|access-date = 5 January 2014}}</ref>


The company was acquired in 2000 by Nikko Principal Investments Japan Ltd., a unit of [[Nikko Cordial]] Corp. of Japan,<ref>{{cite news |first=Alistair |last=Osborne |authorlink= |title=Powell Duffryn in talks to go private |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4470448/Powell-Duffryn-in-talks-to-go-private.html |work=Daily Telegraph |publisher= |date=21 March 2001 |accessdate=24 June 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first=Alistair |last=Osborne |authorlink= |title=Powell Duffryn on private path
The company was acquired in 2000 by Nikko Principal Investments Japan Ltd., a unit of [[Nikko Cordial]] Corp. of Japan,<ref>{{cite news |first=Alistair |last=Osborne |title=Powell Duffryn in talks to go private |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4470448/Powell-Duffryn-in-talks-to-go-private.html |work=Daily Telegraph |date=21 March 2001 |access-date=24 June 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first=Alistair |last=Osborne |title=Powell Duffryn on private path
|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4471296/Powell-Duffryn-on-private-path.html |work=Daily Telegraph |publisher= |date=21 March 2001 |accessdate=24 June 2008}}</ref> with shareholders accepting 570p per share, a valuation of £507&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite news| url = https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/powell-duffryn-falls-to-pound507m-offer-from-private-equity-firm-623652.html| title = Powell Duffryn falls to £507m offer from private equity firm| first = Chris| last = Hughes| date = 4 November 2000| work = The Independent|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref>
|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4471296/Powell-Duffryn-on-private-path.html |work=Daily Telegraph |date=21 March 2001 |access-date=24 June 2008}}</ref> with shareholders accepting 570p per share, a valuation of £507&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite news| url = https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/powell-duffryn-falls-to-pound507m-offer-from-private-equity-firm-623652.html| title = Powell Duffryn falls to £507m offer from private equity firm| first = Chris| last = Hughes| date = 4 November 2000| work = The Independent|access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref>


In the late 1990s/early 2000s the company was restructured; selling multiple business interests;<ref>{{cite journal| title = Restructured Powell Duffryn in the market|journal =The Birmingham Post|date = 5 June 1998| url = http://business.highbeam.com/5399/article-1G1-60775190/restructured-powell-duffryn-market|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref> after acquisition in 2000 the company's engineering interests were Hamworthy KSE (marine engineering), Hamworthy Belliss and Morcom (compressors), Hamworthy Combustion, and Geesink (waste disposal equipment), representing 2500 of a total workforce of 4,200; the engineering division had higher turnover, but lower profit than the port business.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.theengineer.co.uk/news/powell-duffryns-new-owner-plans-disposal-of-engineering-division/284492.article| title = Powell Duffryn's new owner plans disposal of engineering division| date = 16 November 2000| work = www.theengineer.co.uk|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref>
In the late 1990s/early 2000s the company was restructured; selling multiple business interests;<ref>{{cite journal| title = Restructured Powell Duffryn in the market|journal =The Birmingham Post|date = 5 June 1998| url = http://business.highbeam.com/5399/article-1G1-60775190/restructured-powell-duffryn-market| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131219202405/http://business.highbeam.com/5399/article-1G1-60775190/restructured-powell-duffryn-market| url-status = dead| archive-date = 19 December 2013|access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref> after acquisition in 2000 the company's engineering interests were Hamworthy KSE (marine engineering), Hamworthy Belliss and Morcom (compressors), Hamworthy Combustion, and Geesink (waste disposal equipment), representing 2500 of a total workforce of 4,200; the engineering division had higher turnover, but lower profit than the port business.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.theengineer.co.uk/news/powell-duffryns-new-owner-plans-disposal-of-engineering-division/284492.article| title = Powell Duffryn's new owner plans disposal of engineering division| date = 16 November 2000| work = www.theengineer.co.uk|access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref>


The Hamworthy Bellis & Morcom compressor division (see [[Belliss & Morcom]]) was sold to [[Gardner Denver Inc.]] of the United States for £26&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.internationallawoffice.com/Deals/Detail.aspx?r=861 |title =£26 million disposal Deutsche Bank AG, Gardner Denver Inc, Nikko Principal Investments Ltd, Powell Duffryn plc| work = www.internationallawoffice.com|accessdate = 5 January 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gardner-denver-announces-agreement-to-acquire-hamworthy-belliss--morcom-71825817.html| title = Gardner Denver Announces Agreement to Acquire Hamworthy Belliss & Morcom| type= press release| date = 24 August 2001|publisher = Gardner Devner|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref>
The Hamworthy Bellis & Morcom compressor division (see [[Belliss & Morcom]]) was sold to [[Gardner Denver Inc.]] of the United States for £26&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.internationallawoffice.com/Deals/Detail.aspx?r=861 |title =£26 million disposal Deutsche Bank AG, Gardner Denver Inc, Nikko Principal Investments Ltd, Powell Duffryn plc| work = www.internationallawoffice.com|access-date = 5 January 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gardner-denver-announces-agreement-to-acquire-hamworthy-belliss--morcom-71825817.html| title = Gardner Denver Announces Agreement to Acquire Hamworthy Belliss & Morcom| type= press release| date = 24 August 2001|publisher = Gardner Denver|access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref>


==PD Ports (2003–)==
==PD Ports (2003–)==
The company's maritime and port businesses was rebranded in 2003 as PD Ports, Logistics and Shipping (PDPLS).{{citation needed|date=December 2013}}
The company's maritime and port businesses was rebranded in 2003 as PD Ports, Logistics and Shipping (PDPLS).{{citation needed|date=December 2013}}


In 2004 the company was sold to stockbrokers Collins Stewart for £450&nbsp;million (£170&nbsp;equity, £280&nbsp;million debt), followed by an immediate stock market floatation.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.standard.co.uk/news/broker-buys-pd-ports-outfit-6968956.html|title =Broker buys PD Ports outfit| date = 4 July 2004| work = London Evening Standard|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| title = UK ports group is sold for £172m
In 2004 the company was sold to stockbrokers Collins Stewart for £450&nbsp;million (£170&nbsp;equity, £280&nbsp;million debt), followed by an immediate stock market flotation.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://www.standard.co.uk/news/broker-buys-pd-ports-outfit-6968956.html|title =Broker buys PD Ports outfit| date = 4 July 2004| work = London Evening Standard|access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| title = UK ports group is sold for £172m
| url =http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/tees/3866617.stm| work = BBC News|date= 5 July 2004|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref> A bid by Babcock and Brown Infrastructure (BBI) at 150p per share, with total value £337&nbsp;million was recommended in December 2005.<ref>{{cite web| date=12 December 2005|title = Babcock & Brown trumps bid for UK’s PD Ports| first = Steven|last = Seawright| url = http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/2928212/PD-Ports-recommends-Babcock-offer.html| work = Daily Telegraph|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite book| title = Ports in Proximity: Competition and Coordination Among Adjacent Seaports| editor-first = Peter |editor-last =De Langen|editor2-first=César|editor2-last=Ducruet| editor-first3=Theo|editor-last3=Notteboom|year = 2009|isbn = 9780754676881|first=John|last = Mangan| first2=Amy|last2=Proctor| first3=David|last3=Gibbs| at =Table 16.2 "UK port operator take-overs", p.229}}</ref>
| url =http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/tees/3866617.stm| work = BBC News|date= 5 July 2004|access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref> A bid by Babcock and Brown Infrastructure (BBI) at 150p per share, with total value £337&nbsp;million was recommended in December 2005.<ref>{{cite web| date=12 December 2005|title = Babcock & Brown trumps bid for UK's PD Ports| first = Steven|last = Seawright| url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/2928212/PD-Ports-recommends-Babcock-offer.html| work = Daily Telegraph|access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite book| title = Ports in Proximity: Competition and Coordination Among Adjacent Seaports| editor-first = Peter |editor-last =De Langen|editor2-first=César|editor2-last=Ducruet| editor-first3=Theo|editor-last3=Notteboom|year = 2009|isbn = 9780754676881|first1=John|last1 = Mangan| first2=Amy|last2=Proctor| first3=David|last3=Gibbs| publisher = Ashgate Publishing | at =Table 16.2 "UK port operator take-overs", p.229}}</ref>
In November 2009, [[Brookfield Asset Management]] acquired 100% of PD Ports. from BBI for a nominal $1, taking on $113&nbsp;million of debt, as part of BBI port asset sales to reduce the company's debt burdens.<ref>{{cite web| title = New Owners For PD Ports| date = 23 November 2009| url = http://www.ukwa.org.uk/news-events/news/ukwa-news/1/new-owners-for-pd-ports-/45/| work = www.ukwa.org.uk|accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title = PD Ports sold for A$1 by BBI| date = 9 October 2009| url=http://www.bulkmaterialsinternational.com/htm/w20091009.931487.htm| work = www.bulkmaterialsinternational.com |accessdate=19 December 2013}}</ref>
In November 2009, [[Brookfield Asset Management]] acquired 100% of PD Ports. from BBI for a nominal $1, taking on $113&nbsp;million of debt, as part of BBI port asset sales to reduce the company's debt burdens.<ref>{{cite web| title = New Owners For PD Ports| date = 23 November 2009| url = http://www.ukwa.org.uk/news-events/news/ukwa-news/1/new-owners-for-pd-ports-/45/| work = www.ukwa.org.uk| access-date = 19 December 2013| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131219234343/http://www.ukwa.org.uk/news-events/news/ukwa-news/1/new-owners-for-pd-ports-/45/| archive-date = 19 December 2013| url-status = dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title = PD Ports sold for A$1 by BBI| date = 9 October 2009| url=http://www.bulkmaterialsinternational.com/htm/w20091009.931487.htm| work = www.bulkmaterialsinternational.com |access-date=19 December 2013}}</ref>


==Operations==
==Operations==
[[File:Victoria Harbour, Hartlepool - geograph.org.uk - 1606424.jpg|357px|thumb|Hartlepool]]
As of 2013 PD Ports owns and operates the Ports of Tees and Hartlepool under the name [[Teesport]]. The company also operates the Hull Container Terminal at the [[Port of Hull]], and provides [[stevedoring]] and [[warehousing]] services at the [[Port of Immingham]]; logistics and warehousing at the [[Port of Felixstowe]], [[Scunthorpe]], and [[Billingham]]; and operates a wharf on the [[Isle of Wight]]. The company also owns the short sea ports at [[Howden]] ([[Howdendyke]], [[River Ouse, Yorkshire]]), and [[Keadby]] ([[River Trent]]).<ref>{{cite web| title = Our Locations|url =http://www.pdports.co.uk/en/our-locations/| accessdate = 5 January 2013| work = www.pdports.co.uk}}</ref>
As of 2013 PD Ports owns and operates the Ports of Tees and Hartlepool under the name [[Teesport]]. The company also operates the Hull Container Terminal at the [[Port of Hull]], and provides [[stevedoring]] and [[warehousing]] services at the [[Port of Immingham]]; logistics and warehousing at the [[Port of Felixstowe]], [[Scunthorpe]], and [[Billingham]]; and operates a wharf on the [[Isle of Wight]]. The company also owns the short sea ports in [[Scunthorpe]] (Groveport), [[Howden]] ([[Howdendyke]], [[River Ouse, Yorkshire]]), and [[Keadby]] ([[River Trent]]).<ref>{{cite web| title = Our Locations|url =http://www.pdports.co.uk/en/our-locations/| access-date = 5 January 2013| work = www.pdports.co.uk}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
Line 106: Line 106:


===Sources===
===Sources===
*{{cite book|editor-first=Tina|editor-last=Gant|title = International directory of company histories |volume= 31|at = Powell Duffryn plc, p.367| year=2000|ref=harv}}
*{{cite book|editor-first=Tina|editor-last=Gant|title = International directory of company histories |volume= 31|at = Powell Duffryn plc, p.367| year=2000}}


==External links==
==External links==
*[http://www.pdports.co.uk PD Ports]
*[http://www.pdports.co.uk PD Ports]
*{{cite web| url=http://www.gracesguide.co.uk/Powell_Duffryn_Steam_Coal_Co| title = Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Co| work = www.gracesguide.co.uk}}
*{{cite web| url=http://www.gracesguide.co.uk/Powell_Duffryn_Steam_Coal_Co| title = Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Co| work = www.gracesguide.co.uk}}

{{Authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Pd Ports}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Pd Ports}}

Latest revision as of 04:46, 1 September 2024

PD Ports
Company typePrivate company
IndustryPorts
PredecessorPowell Duffryn
Founded1840, Aberdare, South Wales
FounderThomas Powell
Headquarters
Middlesbrough
,
England
Number of locations
Teesport, Hartlepool
OwnerBrookfield Asset Management
Websitewww.pdports.co.uk

PD Ports is a Middlesbrough, UK headquartered port, shipping and logistics company; owner of Teesport, and ports at Hartlepool, Howden and Keadby; with additional operations at the Port of Felixstowe, Port of Immingham, and Port of Hull.

Formerly known as Powell Duffryn, it traces its origins to a coal mining company founded by Thomas Powell in the 19th century in the South Wales coalfield. After Thomas Powell's death in 1863 the company operated as the Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company having been amalgamated into the business of Sir George Elliot. During the latter part of the 19th and early 20th centuries, the company expanded its mining activities, also acquiring shipping firm Stephenson Clarke in 1928. After number of colliery acquisitions and a merger with the Welsh Associated Collieries in 1935 it became Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries In 1947 the main coal mining division of the business was nationalised into the National Coal Board. The remainder of the company diversified, mainly into shipping and engineering, and acquired the ports of Tees and Hartlepool in the 1990s. Restructuring in the late 1990s/early 2000s resulted in the sale of engineering businesses and a focus on port operations.

The company was acquired in 2000 by Nikko Principal Investments Japan Ltd., a unit of Nikko Cordial Corp. of Japan.[1] In 2003 the company re-branded as PD Ports.[2] In 2005 the company was acquired by infrastructure division of Babcock & Brown,[3] and then sold to Brookfield Asset Management in 2009.[4]

History

[edit]

Foundation – Thomas Powell (1779?–1863)

[edit]

The business started in Newport, Wales in the late 18th century as by Thomas Powell who had inherited the family business at the age of 14 on his father's death – in 1810 Powell acquired land in Llanhilleth and began coal mining.[5]

Powell expanded his coal business, opening several collieries in the Newport area – by 1830 Powell's business had become successful – aided by the increasing demand for coal in steam engines; good transport connections via the River Severn and canal system, and later by the railways; and by the high quality of the Welsh coal. Removal of a coal export tax in the 1830s allowed Powell to more widely export the coal, and compete for the market in northern England.[5] The company's first deep mine was sunk at Cwmbach, Aberdare in 1840, opening further mines in both Aberdare and the Rhymney Valley in the following decades.[6] Together with Thomas Prothero and John Latch he formed the first South Wales coal syndicate in 1833, the "Newport Coal Association".[7]

From the 1830s Powell began assembling his own shipping fleet, and also invested £20,000 in the Taff Vale Railway. By the 1840s Powell's mining interests were the amongst the world's largest coal producers. Powell's Duffryn was one of Thomas Powell's companies (Dyffrn meaning literally "Valley").[5]

Powell's mine conditions were poor, leading to a number of explosions in the 1850s. In 1858 Powell cut wages by 15% resulting in strikes which were met with strike breaking methods; Strikebreaker labour was introduced from England.[5]

By 1862 Powell controlled 16 mines, which exported more than 700,000 tons of coal.[7] Shortly before his death he arranged the merger of his business interests with those of Sir George Elliott, forming the Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company Ltd in 1863 with a capital of £500,000.[5] Powell died 24 March 1863.[7]

Powell Duffryn Steam Coal Company Ltd (1863–1935)

[edit]

In 1867 the company acquired the Aberaman Estate from iron master Crawshay Bailey, the land of which held much good quality 'steam coal'.[6] By the 1900s the company had begun generating electricity and utilising it in mining.[5] In 1916, E.M Hann was made a director of the company. After the First World War he drove the development of the company, acquiring all the adjoining collieries (Aberaman, Lletysiencyn, Abernant, Gadlys and Blaengwawr), succeeding in sinking every one of the company's collieries in the Aberdare Valley to the lowest seam. The company started a joint venture in the shipping industry with Stephenson and Clarke in 1920, later acquiring their partners outright by 1928.[5]

The company expanded by acquisition of land and construction of pits, including the Rhymney Iron Company, the Windsor Colliery, collieries from Lewis Morthyr, the Great Western Colliery Company and the Nantgawr Colliery; all acquired in the 1920s.[5]

Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries (1935–47)

[edit]

In 1935, Powell Duffryn merged with the Welsh Associated Collieries, who owned 34 collieries, and formed the joint venture company Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries, which had an output of 20 million tons p.a. The merged company included the Cambrian Wagon Works, adding an engineering arm to the business.[5]

During the Second World War the companies' engineering subsidiary expanded in order to fulfill military orders. The 12 colliery Cory Brothers & Co. Ltd was acquired in 1942,[5] forming Powell Duffryn Ltd..[6]

Nationalisation, Powell Duffryn (1947–2003)

[edit]

In 1946 the Coal Industry Nationalisation Act 1946 led to the formation of the National Coal Board, which took over the companies coal business – after a decade of negotiation Powell Duffryn was paid £16 million for the assets.[5]

The firm diversified, expanding its former secondary interests: engineering, fuel distribution and shipping.[5] Additional interests included timber, quarries, and brickmaking. Engineering interests included Powell Duffryn Engineering in Llantrisant and the Powell Duffryn Wagon Company.[6] Hamworthy Engineering was acquired in 1962.[5]

By the 1980s the company was showing good profitability; the Hanson Trust made an unsuccessful takeover attempt in 1984. From the late 1980s onwards the company disposed of its railway, shipping and bulk liquid assets: Stephenson Clarke was sold; the loss making railway engineering division was closed in 1993/4; much of the fuel distribution and storage assets were sold between 1996 and 1998.[5]

In 1998 the ship engineering arm was expanded by the purchase of "Kvaerner Ships Equipment" (KSE) for £34 million from the Kvaerner shipping group.[citation needed]

In 1992 the Tees and Hartlepool Port Authority (THPA) (see Teesport and Port of Hartlepool) was acquired by Powell Duffryn Plc, 3i, and Humberside Holdings Limited in 1992; Powell Duffryn became sole owner in 1995.[8]

The company was acquired in 2000 by Nikko Principal Investments Japan Ltd., a unit of Nikko Cordial Corp. of Japan,[9][10] with shareholders accepting 570p per share, a valuation of £507 million.[11]

In the late 1990s/early 2000s the company was restructured; selling multiple business interests;[12] after acquisition in 2000 the company's engineering interests were Hamworthy KSE (marine engineering), Hamworthy Belliss and Morcom (compressors), Hamworthy Combustion, and Geesink (waste disposal equipment), representing 2500 of a total workforce of 4,200; the engineering division had higher turnover, but lower profit than the port business.[13]

The Hamworthy Bellis & Morcom compressor division (see Belliss & Morcom) was sold to Gardner Denver Inc. of the United States for £26 million.[14][15]

PD Ports (2003–)

[edit]

The company's maritime and port businesses was rebranded in 2003 as PD Ports, Logistics and Shipping (PDPLS).[citation needed]

In 2004 the company was sold to stockbrokers Collins Stewart for £450 million (£170 equity, £280 million debt), followed by an immediate stock market flotation.[16][17] A bid by Babcock and Brown Infrastructure (BBI) at 150p per share, with total value £337 million was recommended in December 2005.[18][19] In November 2009, Brookfield Asset Management acquired 100% of PD Ports. from BBI for a nominal $1, taking on $113 million of debt, as part of BBI port asset sales to reduce the company's debt burdens.[20][21]

Operations

[edit]
Hartlepool

As of 2013 PD Ports owns and operates the Ports of Tees and Hartlepool under the name Teesport. The company also operates the Hull Container Terminal at the Port of Hull, and provides stevedoring and warehousing services at the Port of Immingham; logistics and warehousing at the Port of Felixstowe, Scunthorpe, and Billingham; and operates a wharf on the Isle of Wight. The company also owns the short sea ports in Scunthorpe (Groveport), Howden (Howdendyke, River Ouse, Yorkshire), and Keadby (River Trent).[22]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Powell Duffryn's new owner plans disposal of engineering division". The Engineer. 16 November 2000. Retrieved 2 July 2021.
  2. ^ "Company moves with the times". Ipswich Star. 27 February 2003. Retrieved 2 July 2021.
  3. ^ "Babcock & Brown completes PD Ports takeover". FreightWaves. 1 February 2006. Retrieved 2 July 2021.
  4. ^ "Brookfield Buys PD Ports | JOC.com". www.joc.com. Retrieved 2 July 2021.
  5. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n Gant 2000.
  6. ^ a b c d "THE POWELL DUFFRYN STEAM COAL CO. LTD". Rhondda Cynon Taf Library Service. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  7. ^ a b c Morgan, Walter Thomas. "POWELL, THOMAS ( 1779? – 1863 )". Dictionary of Welsh Biography. National Library of Wales. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  8. ^ "Company History". www.pdports.co.uk. Retrieved 5 January 2014.
  9. ^ Osborne, Alistair (21 March 2001). "Powell Duffryn in talks to go private". Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 24 June 2008.
  10. ^ Osborne, Alistair (21 March 2001). "Powell Duffryn on private path". Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 24 June 2008.
  11. ^ Hughes, Chris (4 November 2000). "Powell Duffryn falls to £507m offer from private equity firm". The Independent. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  12. ^ "Restructured Powell Duffryn in the market". The Birmingham Post. 5 June 1998. Archived from the original on 19 December 2013. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  13. ^ "Powell Duffryn's new owner plans disposal of engineering division". www.theengineer.co.uk. 16 November 2000. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  14. ^ "£26 million disposal Deutsche Bank AG, Gardner Denver Inc, Nikko Principal Investments Ltd, Powell Duffryn plc". www.internationallawoffice.com. Retrieved 5 January 2014.
  15. ^ "Gardner Denver Announces Agreement to Acquire Hamworthy Belliss & Morcom" (press release). Gardner Denver. 24 August 2001. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  16. ^ "Broker buys PD Ports outfit". London Evening Standard. 4 July 2004. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  17. ^ "UK ports group is sold for £172m". BBC News. 5 July 2004. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  18. ^ Seawright, Steven (12 December 2005). "Babcock & Brown trumps bid for UK's PD Ports". Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  19. ^ Mangan, John; Proctor, Amy; Gibbs, David (2009). De Langen, Peter; Ducruet, César; Notteboom, Theo (eds.). Ports in Proximity: Competition and Coordination Among Adjacent Seaports. Ashgate Publishing. Table 16.2 "UK port operator take-overs", p.229. ISBN 9780754676881.
  20. ^ "New Owners For PD Ports". www.ukwa.org.uk. 23 November 2009. Archived from the original on 19 December 2013. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  21. ^ "PD Ports sold for A$1 by BBI". www.bulkmaterialsinternational.com. 9 October 2009. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  22. ^ "Our Locations". www.pdports.co.uk. Retrieved 5 January 2013.

Sources

[edit]
  • Gant, Tina, ed. (2000). International directory of company histories. Vol. 31. Powell Duffryn plc, p.367.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=PD_Ports&oldid=1243387066"