Condor Ferries to increase freight charges

Freight charges will increase by 10% above inflation

An increase in freight charges of 10% above inflation has been announced in Guernsey by Condor Ferries.

The company said customers "were being informed of the adjustment above September’s published RPI figure for all routes, to help meet increasing costs".

It said it had absorbed cost increases from suppliers over the past three years.

However, the firm said it had more recently been subjected to significantly above-inflation rises in some port costs and fees, along with minimum and living wage increases.

CEO John Napton said: "As with many other businesses, our financial situation was impacted during the pandemic period and during that time we continued to maintain the supply of essential food and medicines to the islands.

"We are notifying logistics clients of an increase in charges.

"This is obviously regrettable but, having kept our charges low for the past three years, the increasing costs mean we now have no choice but to pass these on."

The company has not responded to requests to confirm if the rises will apply across its network - as it operates between Guernsey, Jersey, St Malo and Portsmouth and Poole.

Deputy Neil Inder, president of the committee for economic development, said he "hears loud and clear the concerns of businesses working in the supply chain about increasing costs".

He added: "We’re engaging with Condor on this matter, with the aim of ensuring that any increases that are implemented are essential, affordable and proportionate.”

Guernsey Ports said the costs of goods coming to the island is "reflected in the price of everyday products that we buy".

A statement said: "Harbour dues and charges are just one element of these shipping and transport costs and a relatively small element compared to other factors such as fuel, vehicles and staff.

"Therefore, although Guernsey Ports charges are set to increase next year, whether or not companies choose to pass this on to their customers, the direct impact on prices is likely to be very small."