Shipping line to switch HQ from London to Liverpool

Liverpool is to become the UK and Ireland headquarters for international shipping giant AP Moller-Maersk.

The move will see 70 jobs relocate from London to the city, joining the 110 existing Maersk Line staff based at Bruntwood's Plaza on Old Hall Street.

Bruntwood said the extra staff will be absorbed into Maersk's existing 20,600 sq ft office.

The relocation was brokered by economic agencies the Mersey Partnership, Liverpool Vision and the North West Development Agency.

TMP said the move was "partly based on the competitive costs associated with locating and operating in the city and its connectivity."

Lorraine Rogers, chief executive of TMP, added: "This is a very significant win for Liverpool City Region. In the prevailing economic conditions operating costs are critical to every firm and as Maersk have seen there is a distinct business advantage to be gained by locating in Liverpool."

Maersk Line UK & Ireland managing director, Doug Bannister, said: "The welcome we have received from Liverpool and its City Region partners has been inspiring. It is an exciting opportunity for our business as well as the local community and we are looking forward to establishing our head office in Liverpool particularly given the city's long maritime history."