Verizon has won a contract to roll out its private 5G networks across several key logistics, manufacturing, and innovation sites within Thames Freeport.

Thames Freeport is a major regeneration project along the River Thames, encompassing the Thames Estuary in the UK. Launched in 2021 by DP World, Forth Ports, and Ford Motor Company, the initiative forms part of the UK’s post-Brexit strategy to boost trade, innovation, and regional development.

The agreement, signed in partnership with Nokia, will see Verizon deploy private 5G networks to underpin the area’s technological infrastructure. This multi-year, multi-billion-dollar project aims to drive operational transformation and economic revitalisation across the region.

Verizon’s private 5G networks will be implemented at several major sites, including DP World London Gateway (the UK’s largest deep-sea container port and logistics hub), DP World Logistics Park, Ford Dagenham (London’s largest manufacturing site), and the Port of Tilbury (the largest port within Thames Freeport).

The network infrastructure is designed to provide scalable, long-term connectivity to support advanced data applications, AI, edge computing, and IoT systems. These technologies will enhance process automation, autonomous vehicle operations, security monitoring, and real-time logistics management.

For instance, industrial sites will be able to use IoT for autonomous yard tractors and quay cranes, as well as near real-time cargo tracking, smart routing, and condition monitoring.

Nokia will serve as the sole supplier of hardware and software for the networks, incorporating its Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) platform and Nokia MX Industrial Edge (MXIE).

Verizon stated that the project will also stimulate the local economy by supporting training and retraining programmes as part of employment initiatives. Additionally, it will foster innovation and research and development collaborations between Freeport tenants and external businesses, government bodies, and research organisations.

Jennifer Artley, senior vice president of 5G acceleration at Verizon Business, highlighted that the partnership with Thames Freeport and Nokia demonstrates the "full promise" of private 5G at scale.

“We’re not just driving operational improvements to help a partner stay ahead of the curve; we’re laying the groundwork for new revenue streams, community development, and further commercial and technological investment,” she said.

David de Lancellotti, vice president of enterprise campus edge sales at Nokia, added: “Together with Verizon Business, we’re proud to be enabling the infrastructure that will help Thames Freeport drive new efficiencies, sustainable growth, and long-term economic opportunity for the region.”

In 2024, Verizon reported revenues of $134.8 billion.

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