Following recent press reports on comments I allegedly made about Shoprite’s use of alternative freight carriers to and from the Isle of Man I wish to apologise on behalf of the Steam Packet Company for any misleading impression given. We can confirm that Shoprite, via its trading partnerships with 7 Manx hauliers, is still a valuable and committed customer of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. The Steam Packet Company is happy to withdraw any suggestion to the contrary. Furthermore I have been made aware of, and am happy to recognise, the significant contribution that Shoprite makes to the Island’s economy by employing over 600 Manx workers and investing in, and supporting numerous other Manx domiciled businesses. ENDS