Ports of Indiana Opens Ireland Trade Office

David C. Lester photo

CORK, Ireland –– Ports of Indiana announced this week that it has opened its first international trade office in Ireland. This was done to grow cargo shipments and support the launch of a direct Europe-Indiana container service. Maritime trade veteran, Brian Dooley, will lead the new European Trade Office, based in Cork and Kildare, Ireland.

The three ports in Indiana handle shipments for over 30 countries through the Great Lakes Seaway and inland river system and contribute $8.7 billion in annual economic activity while supporting 50,000 total jobs. Ports of Indiana is a statewide port authority and its ports occupy 2,800 acres of land on Lake Michigan and the Ohio River. The fast-growing inland port system has doubled in size within five years and is conducting a $100 million expansion of dock, rail, and roadway capabilities.

Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock said “Europe is a critical trading partner for Ports of Indiana and establishing an Ireland office is part of our strategic growth initiative that will allow us to better serve existing customers and develop new container shipments between Indiana and Europe. The extensive experience and relationships that Brian Dooley brings to our team will help expand our existing liner service to Antwerp and provide more efficient direct shipments for Ireland-Indiana trade.”

Brian Dooley said “There is significant interest in Ireland and European markets about Ports of Indiana’s expansion plans and the opportunity to develop a direct container service with the U.S. Midwest. I am truly excited to join the great team at Ports of Indiana and help develop new partnerships throughout Europe. Indiana has a unique port system and the trade connections with Ireland present a tremendous opportunity for future growth and creating efficiencies by better leveraging maritime transportation routes through the Great Lakes and U.S. river system.”

Brady Jacoba, Chief Commercial Officer for Ports of Indiana, said “Having someone of Brian’s caliber representing Ports of Indiana in Europe is a tremendous benefit to our business development efforts. He brings considerable knowledge, energy, and a deep understanding of European container market and Ireland trade opportunities. Brian will be instrumental in providing new European connections to shippers, carriers, government officials, and trade events that will greatly improve our relationships and market intelligence in strategic areas.”

Brian Dooley