Port of Southampton has been ranked as the most productive port in Europe.

Analysis from the Journal of Commerce looked at 400 ports and charted over 100,000 port calls in 2012 to determine its findings. Data suggests Southampton, operated by DP World, moves an average 71 containers per hour. This is above the alternative major container port in the UK, Felixstowe, which can move 49.

Yet, as the only European port to make the global top 20, the list highlights Southampton as a strong business location in European freight, as well as it's ability to compete on a large, worldwide scale.

The high ranking also comes at a time of growth and improvement for Southampton; the port is currently being targeted for a £150 million expansion.

This includes a 500 metre quay and four additional cranes, with the development to open in January 2014. Additions and changes at the port look to prepare for the future by allowing Southampton to cater for the largest ships.