Bremerhaven invests 70 million euros in automated ports!

Bremerhaven invests 70 million euros in automated ports!

Woltmershausen, Deutschland - In Bremerhaven something big! On June 30, 2025, the latest expansion of the Eurogate container terminal will be ceremoniously opened. The impressive facility costs a whopping 70 million euros, with around three quarters of the costs borne by the federal government. Six tracks and four remote -controlled cranes are installed on an area of ​​around 80,000 square meters, which will take over the container handling for trains. This is another step into the future, because the operation of these cranes is no longer manually carried out by train drivers, but via computer -supported systems in offices. The Eurogate boss Michael Blach emphasizes how important digitization and automation are today to remain competitive.

Even if the latest technology is moving in, there are voices that do not want to lose sight of the need for people in the port. Thomas Mendzik, Chairman of the Container Terminal in Altenwerder, emphasizes that, despite all automation, 1,200 people are still employed in the ports. Ulrike Riedel, working director at Eurogate, sees complete automation as unrealistic as long as the necessary investments are not made. A call to qualification in order to meet the requirements of the new technologies is also necessary.

Future of the port in Bremen

The challenges that arise from globalization, demographic change and urbanization are enormous. However, digitization has the potential to make maritime transport chains more efficient, more flexible and agile, as explained in detail on the Fraunhofer CML side. Digital solutions can simplify processes and reduce energy consumption, which contributes to the achievement of the sustainability goals. A targeted information and data exchange promotes the development of new business models for the ports and makes them fit for the future.

With regard to the necessary changes in the port of Hamburg, it is important that Bremen's mayor Andreas Bovenschulte (SPD) asks the federal government to support the port expansion. This could include the renovation of the container base and the urgently needed deepening of the Weser. This means not only a strengthening of the regional economy, but also a commitment to the future viability of the Bremen port.

specialists and qualification

Automation is certainly a trend that cannot be stopped, but it remains to be seen how the professions will develop in the port area. Mendrzik emphasized that it is primarily about the right algorithms and networking and not just machines. The shortage of skilled workers, which the industry currently feels, requires comprehensive qualification measures so that people in the port will continue to retain their importance in the future

Overall, it can be seen that the Bremen port is well on the way to face the challenges of the future. If all projects are successfully implemented, Bremerhaven could not only become a place of the goods handling, but also a pioneer in the digitization of the port industry. That would not only be a profit for the region, but could also set new standards in international logistics.