The Port of Tilbury, part of the Forth Ports Group and one of the UK’s most strategically important trade gateways, has partnered with Continental to enhance operational performance, safety, and sustainability across its extensive logistics operations.

With over 500 tyres in use across their fleet of Kalmar, Hyster, and Liebherr GB cranes, reachstackers, forklifts, and straddle carriers, the Port of Tilbury required a robust and forward-thinking solution to meet the demands of its high-intensity environment. Continental was selected as the ideal partner to deliver both tyre performance and digital innovation.

“We have partnered with Continental for our tyre requirements for a number of reasons,” said Andy Darlington, Senior Procurement & Facilities Manager at the Port of Tilbury. “The exceptional performance of their tyres, combined with their advanced digital solutions, gives us reliability and endurancein our day-to-day operations.”

Continental’s StraddleMaster tyres have delivered excellent durability and fuel efficiency, with their low rolling resistance helping to reduce fuel consumption by up to 30%. The integration of ContiConnect and ContiPressureCheck has enabled condition-based monitoring, allowing the port to detect issues before failure and prioritise maintenance using real-time data.

Three YardReader stations have been installed across the site to support data-driven decision-making, while predictive maintenance has helped reduce downtime by 20%.

The port also benefits from a seamless service partnership with Halfords Commercial Fleet Services (CFS), who manage tyre inspections, stock, and replacements to ensure operational continuity.

“Halfords CFS expertly manages our tyre husbandry,” said David Housden, Head of Engineering & Procurement. “This, combined with Continental’s innovation, supports us to keep our fleet moving.”

Sustainability is a shared priority. Continental’s tyres can now be produced CO₂-neutrally at its ISCC PLUS-certified Lousado plant in Portugal, powered by renewable energy. This aligns with the Port of Tilbury’s environmental goals and supports its long-term commitment to responsible operations.

“This partnership is about more than tyres,” said Mike Leedham, OTR Sales Manager at Continental. “It’s about powering the future of ports through innovation and sustainability.”