Welcome from the Chief Executive
I am pleased to share the positive progress made by the Shoreham Port team in 2024 which marks our 264th year as a Trust Port.
Our purpose remains to ‘improve our Trust Port for everyone’, in a way that is sustainable and aligned with our values as trusted custodians for future generations.
We are very proud of the organisation’s achievements during the year; despite ongoing instability within the economy, particularly within the construction sector, the team delivered a fourth year of record-breaking revenue growth.
Our outlook for the next twelve months is cautiously optimistic. Our sustained diversification efforts continue to provide resilience against the construction sector linked challenges to our core business. We remain confident that our strong customer and supplier relationships, combined with our outstanding team of colleagues, places us in a positive position.
Our values will continue to provide guidance and are at the core of all that we do. We would like to thank all colleagues once again for their hard work and our stakeholders for their ongoing engagement during another year of strong progress at Shoreham Port.
As a Trust Port, our continued success is linked to how we engage, and importantly, listen to a wide range of valued stakeholders. Therefore, please continue to get in touch with your views and suggestions via our social media channels, attending our events or by contacting us.
Improving our Trust Port for everyone
- All home safe and well daily
- Our marine activity will increase revenue by maximising cargo, fishing, leisure, and specialist project capacity
- Sustainable profitability will enable us to invest in people, infrastructure, and new services
- High quality discharge, storage and logistics will be provided for a wide range of direct and partner cargoes (grow to 2m tonnes per year)
- Through estate utilisation, we will create a thriving commercial property ecosystem
- Collaborative relationships with local, educational, and business communities remain key to our success
- Our values continue to guide us in becoming a diverse and modern employer
- We will meet Net Zero (scope 1 & 2) by 2035 whilst being a catalyst for total estate emission reduction
In 2024, we reaffirmed our commitment to our Masterplan goal of ‘All home safe and well daily’. As part of strengthening our safety culture, we investigate all accidents and near misses to identify opportunities for improving the health and safety of everyone affected by our activities.
During the year, we recorded three lost time incidents, one of which was reportable to the HSE. A total of 15 days were lost due to colleague accidents in 2024.
Industry recognition
During the year we made significant progress towards achieving ISO 45001 certification for our cargo handling activities, with successful certification taking place in 2025. This internationally recognised standard demonstrates our commitment to health and safety and the continual improvement of our ways of working.
A key example of this approach is the innovation shown by our Operations colleagues, who developed a dunnage placement tool to eliminate the need to work at height when loading lorries, while maintaining operational efficiency. The creation of the tool was recognised at the inaugural Port Skills and Safety Conference, where we proudly received the ‘Best Safety Moment’ award. We also showcased the innovation at the British Ports Association annual conference, sharing best practices across the industry.
Proactive initiatives & engagement
We continue to take a risk-based approach to health and safety, developing proactive initiatives to protect both colleagues and third parties engaging in our operations. This includes our campaign encouraging HGV drivers to remain in their cabs whilst their lorries are being loaded; one of the highest-risk activities for drivers.
Across the Port, reporting of safety observations more than doubled in 2024 thanks to the introduction of a simple QR code reporting method. We also placed a focus on working collaboratively with our Safety Improvement Team to ensure we cover issues that resonate with colleagues, including ladder safety, sun safety, and mental health awareness.
Looking ahead
In 2025, we will focus on enhancing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), aiming to improve its effectiveness, comfort, accessibility, and inclusivity for all colleagues considering all requirements. This project supports our commitment to reducing occupational hazards and promoting a safer working environment for all.
Despite ongoing inflation and supply chain challenges across the construction sector in 2024, our commercial teams demonstrated resilience and adaptability. We prioritised targeted investment and value-added services, reinforcing our commitment to maximising capacity across cargo, fishing, leisure and project operations. This approach helped us deliver record turnover for the fourth consecutive year - reaching £20.5 million, a 4.8% increase on 2023.
Cargo & port operations
Cargo handling remained at the heart of our commercial activity, with strong performance in cargo mix and value-added services helping drive an 8.5% uplift in operational revenue. Our team provided high-quality discharge, storage, and freight forwarding across a broad range of cargoes, supporting both direct clients and tenant operators.
While cargo ship calls rose 3% year-on-year to 542, a shift in vessel size and cargo mix led to a 5.7% reduction in overall tonnage handled. Non-tenant cargo volumes fell by 13.2%, while tenant cargo was down 3.9%. However, Port-handled cargo increased by 1.6%, supported by strong volumes of timber.
We also supported specialist operations, including Herbosch-Kiere’s decommissioning of the Royal Sovereign Lighthouse. Sections of the iconic structure, a vital beacon for over 50 years, were offloaded at our terminals for further demolition and recycling, underlining our capacity to support complex projects.
Marine services
As a Trust Port, we continue to reinvest surpluses into infrastructure and growth, while also actively pursuing external funding opportunities. Following grants secured through the UK Seafood Fund: Infrastructure Scheme, we progressed two major capital projects during 2024. In summer, work advanced on the redevelopment of our inshore fishing marina, renamed Fishersgate Marina, doubling berthing capacity and increasing quay space by 170%.
The Fund also supported the construction of Berth Zero, a facility that will enable vessels to connect to renewable shore power. This investment will help reduce harbour emissions and support our wider decarbonisation goals. Completion of both projects took place in early 2025.
Fishing continued to play a vital role in 2024. We welcomed 435 nomadic commercial fishing vessels, a 7.7% increase on the previous year, and maintained our position as the third-largest port in England by catch value.
Leisure activity also remained promising, with a total of 12,553 vessel movements recorded during the year - a 4.6% increase on 2023. In its second full year of operation, Lady Bee Chandlery was reconfigured to improve stock access and enhance service for leisure users.
Shoreham Port is committed to full compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code, meeting the requirements in all Port functions. We are proud to have received praise and recognition of continued development and commitment to our safety protocols from our auditors having reported good compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code.
Property estate
Throughout 2024, the team continued to manage our diverse property estate while also progressing future improvements. A key development was the launch of a new partnership with MRI Software to upgrade our property management system. The integrated digital platform will bring together leasing, maintenance, accounting, and property operations into a single streamlined system. Implementation is underway, with the new portal set to launch in spring 2025, enhancing the experience for our commercial tenants, from sole traders and SMEs to multinational businesses.
Statement of Financial Position For the Year Ended 31 December 2024
| Statement of Financial Position | 2024 (£000s) | 2023 (£000s) |
| Goodwill | 68 | 77 |
| Fixed Assets | 49,366 | 47,755 |
| Investment Properties | 31,246 | 31,209 |
| Current Assets | 5,923 | 7,247 |
| Creditors: Due Within 1 Year | (5,488) | (4,698) |
| Total Assets Less Current Liabilities | 81,114 | 81,589 |
| Creditors: Due After More Than 1 Year | (20,000) | (20,000) |
| Provisions for Liabilities | (5,163) | (5,028) |
| Defined Benefit Pension (Liability)/Surplus | (0) | (377) |
| Net Assets | 55,951 | 56,184 |
| Reserves | 55,951 | 56,184 |
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income For the Year Ended 31 December 2024
| Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income | 2024 (£000s) | 2023 (£000s) |
| Turnover | 20,517 | 19,582 |
| Cost of Sales | (10,871) | (10,492) |
| Gross Profit | 9,646 | 9,090 |
| Administrative Expenses | (8,169) | (7,561) |
| Other Operating Income | 1 | 47 |
| Operating Profit/(Loss) | 1,478 | 1,576 |
| Interest Receivable and Similar Income | 0.4 | 407 |
| Interest Payable and Similar Charges | (1,358) | (1,385) |
| Fair Value (loss)/gain on Investment Properties | (282) | (3,159) |
| Loss Before Taxation | (161) | (2,561) |
| Taxation | (195) | 408 |
| Loss for the Financial Year | (356) | (2,153) |
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow For the Year Ended 31 December 2024
| Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow | 2024 (£000s) | 2023 (£000s) |
| Cash Generated from Operations | 3,717 | 4,260 |
| Interest Paid | (1,343) | (1,385) |
| Income Taxes Paid | (318) | (423) |
| Net Cash Flow from Operating Activities | 2,056 | 2,452 |
| Net Cash Generated Used in Investing Activities | (3,749) | (1,896) |
| Net Cash Generated (Used In)/Generated From Financing Activities | - | (962) |
| Net (Decrease)/Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents | (1,693) | (406) |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year | 2,948 | 3,354 |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year | 1,255 | 2,948 |
Through our Open Doors value, we actively listen to a wide range of community stakeholders, building meaningful relationships and creating positive local impact. We played a thriving role in our community throughout the year, supporting local causes with £24,000 in direct donations and £85,000 in kind contributions as well as engaging through strategic partnerships, educational activities and multiple stakeholder events.
Learning & careers engagement
From primary schools to universities, we work with education providers to raise awareness of maritime careers, making them more accessible to all. In 2024, we continued this commitment by hosting site visits, delivering talks, and attending careers fairs to help young people connect with the Port and explore future opportunities.
To further strengthen our offering, we formalised our work experience programme in 2024, facilitating 8 placements. Each placement is designed to give students a well-rounded understanding of how the Port operates. Students are also assigned a project to complete during their time with us, helping them build valuable skills and providing something tangible to present at the end of their placements.
Supporting girls aged 14–19 from the least-advantaged backgrounds, this charity connects mentees with role models and mentors. In addition to financial support, we provided volunteer mentors from across the Port.
Following training in mentoring and safeguarding, female colleagues run one-on-one mentoring sessions to help participants build confidence and explore career ambitions.
As a vital local support network to some of our nearest neighbours, this Community Interest Company provides subsidised groceries, a food bank, mental health support, clothing, workshops, and inclusive events.
We support their work through monthly donations and in-kind contributions, such as donating computers to support their digital literacy workshops.
Prime Ministerial Visit
In January, we welcomed then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for a memorable visit to the Port. Highlights included showcasing our refurbished dry dock in action, joining the Lancing Sea Scouts aboard their training yacht, and enjoying refreshments together at Port Kitchen.
Dementia Awareness Workshop
In partnership with Alzheimer’s Society, we hosted a public workshop at Port Kitchen, our hospitality venue and the first café in Adur recognised as Dementia Friendly. Attendees learnt more about the syndrome and the support available for those living with dementia in our community.
Annual Public Meeting
We welcomed stakeholders for updates on key developments and performance. Attendees shared valuable feedback and asked questions on topics ranging from our pumphouse and marinas to future projects and community initiatives.
Sustainability Week
Our fourth annual Sustainability Week featured 18 events in partnership with 16 organisations. With over 560 tickets booked, it was our biggest yet—showcasing collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing to support a greener future locally and beyond.
The Girls’ Network End-of-Programme Celebration
We hosted the spring 2024 celebration for the Shoreham Academy cohort of The Girls’ Network, including mentees supported by Port colleagues. The event celebrated their progress and featured inspiring career talks from a Port Apprentice and Sussex Dolphin Project’s Managing Director.
Alongside developing our physical estate, we remained committed to nurturing our workplace culture in 2024. In the fourth year of embedding our award-winning values, these continued to guide all aspects of our approach. Following significant growth in recent years, our team increased slightly this year, from 213 to 220 colleagues.
Creating an inclusive workplace
In 2024, we invested in our inclusive culture through targeted initiatives that support underrepresented groups and address hidden challenges in the workplace. These included signing the Menopause Workplace Pledge, delivering menopause awareness training for managers, and providing LGBTQ+ inclusion training across the Port. To strengthen our approach to mental health, we increased the number of trained Mental Health First Aiders and formed a new partnership with Andy’s Man Club.
Through online sessions, colleagues gained insight into the charity’s work and the collective role we can all play in reducing stigma around male mental health.
Our sector-leading approach to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion was recognised nationally with the British Ports Association’s Inclusive Workplace Award in 2024, building on our recognition as Diversity and Inclusion Champion at the 2023 Maritime UK Awards. This award reflects the dedication of our entire team in promoting equal opportunities and working to build a welcoming workplace; a commitment deeply rooted in our Masterplan and values.
Training & development
We continued to invest in high-quality training and career development, particularly through our apprenticeship programme. We supported our 2023 cohort through the final stages of their training with outstanding results, welcomed a new wave of colleagues in autumn 2024, and began preparing for 2025’s intake, strengthening long-term employment opportunities in the maritime sector.
This work was recognised with a win at the Adur & Worthing Business Awards, where we received the Training & Development award. Judges praised our structured work plans, personalised mentorship, and consistent engagement with apprentices. A highlight of the evening was seeing our apprentices join their colleagues on stage to collect the prize; a meaningful moment that celebrated their achievements and our shared commitment to developing future talent.
A significant factor in Shoreham Port’s success is their innovative training and development programme which has a focus on not only skills but personal growth - supporting their Apprentices with mentorship, work plans and continuous engagement, enabling them to thrive in their roles and paving the way for a promising future for everyone involved.
Listening, learning & taking action
Our fourth annual colleague survey, held in autumn, attracted record participation. Results showed greater awareness of health and safety responsibilities and increased uptake of colleague benefits, including our Simplyhealth cash plan. Building on survey findings, senior leaders will hold focus groups in 2025 with Values Ambassadors; colleagues nominated by their peers through our quarterly award scheme, to further explore key themes, identify improvements, and ensure colleague voices continue to shape our workplace.
Gender pay gap
We continue to monitor and publish our Gender Pay Gap data as part of our commitment to transparency and continuous improvement. In 2024, our mean gender pay gap was -3.74% in favour of women. These insights inform actions to support equity and ensure our workplace evolves with the needs of our colleagues.
Female representation at Shoreham Port stood at 22%, surpassing the UK ports benchmark of 17% (British Ports Association Survey 2021).
Our commitment to achieving our sustainability goals continued during 2024, in line with the goals set out in our Masterplan. We marked our eleventh consecutive year of EcoPort certification, and an independent audit confirmed full achievement of our Year 1 Sustainable Linked Finance Key Performance Indicators agreed with our finance partner HSBC.
Sustainability in action
In 2024, we advanced a range of sustainability initiatives focused on reducing emissions and enhancing biodiversity. This included announcing Southwick Reef, a new habitat installation designed to boost biodiversity, due for completion in 2025, and continuing our involvement in the Sussex Net Regeneration Scheme, a circular project that recycles end-of-life fishing gear from local fishers into new plastic products, reducing disposal costs and diverting waste from landfill.
We also made environmental progress through our new shore power capability at Berth Zero, which allows up to 10 vessels to plug into renewable electricity simultaneously, reducing air pollution and carbon emissions. To support these efforts and future initiatives, we expanded our Sustainability Team during the year, with two new colleagues focused on decarbonisation data and biodiversity.
You can read more about these and other initiatives in our 2024 Sustainability Report, available via our website later this year.
Decarbonisation plan
In January of 2024, we announced a new collaboration to develop a Local Industrial Decarbonisation Plan (LIDP) for the newly formed Shoreham Port Industrial Cluster, supported by the Local Industrial Decarbonisation Plans Competition funded by Department of Energy Security and Net Zero and delivered by Innovate UK, to support the development of place-based decarbonisation plans, demonstrating collaboration among neighbouring industrial businesses.
Following a year long collaborative process of wide-ranging research, in-depth analysis, scenario modelling and consultation, our Local Industrial Decarbonisation Plan is now available to view, setting out the process, options and scenarios for decarbonising the Shoreham Port Industrial Cluster. View the Plan here.
Join us this July
You can explore more at Sustainability Week 2025 between 2nd - 5th July 2025, where we’ll host free talks, workshops and tours focused on how ports, charities and businesses are pursuing a greener future.
Visit our events page to book your tickets.
