Alconedo transport

Menzies Distribution Solutions acquires C Butt Ltd Transport division

Menzies Distribution Solutions (MDS) has announced the acquisition of the transport division of family-owned logistics firm C Butt.

This strategic move strengthens MDS’s presence in the Midlands logistics corridor and expands its reach in key sectors including packaging, FMCG, and manufacturing. As part of the deal, 29 drivers, office and finance colleagues, and 102 fleet assets will transfer to MDS.

The acquisition brings significant benefits to both businesses and their customers. It adds long-standing customer relationships, an experienced team, and additional fleet capacity to MDS operations. Importantly, C Butt’s customers – spanning industrial, food, packaging, and retail sectors – will continue to work with the local teams they know in Northampton and Kettering, now supported by our nationwide infrastructure and 24/7 service.

Founded in 1926, C Butt has been a trusted name in logistics for nearly 100 years, run by three generations of the Butt family. With no new family members stepping into the business, directors Jonathan and Robert Butt have chosen to retire from the near century-old firm. In a statement, they said:

“We’re proud of C Butt’s history as a family-owned logistics company and grateful for the trust our customers have placed in us. In MDS, we have chosen a partner with the scale, systems and culture to support those customers in the next phase. We are confident this transition will be smooth and that our people and customers will be well looked after.”

Richard Morson, Chief Executive of Menzies Distribution Solutions, commented:

“We’re very pleased to welcome C Butt’s people and customers into MDS. The team is well regarded in the market and will be a strong addition to our network. For customers, this means they’ll have the same people delivering their work, backed by our national infrastructure, systems and 24/7 support, plus access to additional capacity and services across the UK.”

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CitySprint and Wickes strengthen partnership with contract extension

CitySprint has announced a further extension to its partnership with British home improvement retailer Wickes.

The extension will see the two partners continue their collaboration until 31st December 2027, building on the long-running and successful relationship that first began in 2016.

CitySprint will continue to provide home delivery services from Wickes’ network of over 230 stores across the UK. This local fulfilment model ensures customers receive fast, convenient deliveries directly from nearby stores, improving service while reducing the environmental impact of long-haul transportation.

The extended contract reflects a key enhancement: reducing the prealerted delivery time window from five hours to four. This improvement will help customers plan their day more efficiently and reflects both businesses’ commitment to putting customer experience first. In addition, customers can now use their tracking link to choose a safe place for delivery, with couriers receiving the instructions instantly on their device. Launched in early November, this new feature makes secure, hassle-free deliveries even easier – especially when customers aren’t home.

CitySprint’s nationwide coverage, fleet capacity, and deep understanding of Wickes’ delivery processes continue to set them apart as a trusted logistics partner. Each day, around 260 accredited couriers support the Wickes account, ensuring reliable service across the UK. In 2024, this partnership saw CitySprint complete over 1 million deliveries with an impressive on-time performance rate of over 98%.

Faye Calland, Sales and Marketing Director at CitySprint, said:

“We’re proud to be extending our long-standing partnership with Wickes. Since 2016, our teams have worked closely together to deliver millions of orders nationwide, always focusing on customer convenience and reliability. Shortening the delivery window is the next step in enhancing the experience for Wickes’ customers, helping them receive the products they need, when they need them.”

Keith Ash, Distribution and Fulfilment Director at Wickes, added:

“CitySprint has been an integral partner for Wickes, ensuring our customers receive a fast and reliable delivery service. This extension is a vital part of our strategy to stay competitive in the home improvement market, and we’re proud to continue building on our shared commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.”

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Christopher Cook new Managing Director of Maersk UK & Ireland Area

Chris Cook, currently Managing Director of Maersk’s India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka Area, will take over as the new Managing Director of UK & Ireland Area with the start of the new year.

The British national joined Maersk as a trainee in 2002 and has worked over the last two decades across Africa, Europe, Middle East and India with both Damco and Maersk. Christopher Cook has spent the last 7 years in the IMEA region, initially as Managing Director in the UAE Area, successfully leading the integration and transformation of the business there. Most recently, he served as Managing Director for IBS Area where he has operationalised the long-term strategy for the Area, deepened the operational execution capability and lifted the profitability with successful growth across the portfolio.

Aymeric Chandavoine, EVP & President Region Europe at Maersk, said:

“I am very pleased to welcome Chris to our Region Europe leadership team as our new head of UK and Ireland Area. Chris is no stranger to the UK and brings a strong customer focus. He is also known for his passion about people and developing strong culture in the organisations he leads.”

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Major infrastructure upgrades for East Midlands Airport

Major improvements to critical parts of East Midlands Airport’s infrastructure are being carried out during a series of runway closures over the winter.

As part of the airport’s ongoing £120m investment programme, significant upgrades of lighting, taxiways and the central apron (where passenger aircraft park) will be undertaken. Also scheduled to take place on Wednesdays throughout the winter period is general maintenance of the runway, taxiways and aprons.

Following consultation with airlines and other airport stakeholders, East Midlands Airport is taking the opportunity to conduct these works – normally carried out overnight – during daylight hours. This allows for more work to be completed safely and efficiently, with minimal disruption to passengers and cargo operations.

The infrastructure upgrades will enhance the airport’s operational capabilities and future-proof its airfield for years to come. These developments form part of a broader investment strategy that reflects the airport’s commitment to safety, efficiency and development to meet evolving aviation demands, including significant growth in its cargo operation. Key projects include:

  • Extensively replacing Taxiway Bravo: This critical artery of the airfield plays a vital role in aircraft movement between the runway and the west apron used by heavy cargo aircraft. The works will involve a full-scale upgrade of the taxiway surface and supporting infrastructure, ensuring it meets the latest operational standards and can accommodate a wider range of aircraft types.
  • Redesigning the Central Apron: A comprehensive redesign of the Central Apron will reconfigure the layout to optimise space and improve turnaround times. The work will create four more stands for passenger aircraft, bringing the total to 28, to support growing airline operations.
  • Installing improved lighting across all aprons: Advanced lighting systems will be installed across the east, west, and central aprons in line with international best practice in airfield management. Enhanced airfield ground lighting and centreline lighting will play a pivotal role in improving visibility, guidance and safety for aircraft during taxiing, parking and pushback operations.

Other work involves replacements and upgrades of electrical substations, general maintenance of the runway, taxiways and aprons and upgrades to hydrant and drainage systems.

East Midlands Airport’s Asset Development Director Brian McCoubrey said:

“These winter works are not just about maintenance – they’re an investment in the airport’s future, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital hub for passengers and freight across the UK and beyond.

“By investing in its taxiways, aprons and lighting systems, the airport is reinforcing its role as a key regional hub and ensuring it remains competitive, resilient and ready to meet the demands of modern aviation.”

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DP World unifies marine services brands under one global identity

DP World has announced the unification of its Marine Services brands, Unifeeder, P&O Ferrymasters and P&O Maritime Logistics, under a single DP World brand, strengthening its position as a fully integrated global logistics provider.

The businesses will now operate as:

  • Shipping Solutions (formerly Unifeeder)
  • Multimodal Solutions (formerly P&O Ferrymasters)
  • Maritime Solutions (formerly P&O Maritime Logistics)

Over the coming months, these legacy brands will transition to the DP World identity across all digital, physical and customer touchpoints. Behind the scenes, the same leadership and teams, transport solutions and infrastructure remain in place, united by a shared brand identity.

The transformation represents a major step in DP World’s journey from a leading port operator into a fully integrated global logistics provider. Each business plays a vital role in connecting global trade flows, from feedering and shortsea shipping to inland logistics and offshore services. Now they will deliver the full spectrum of solutions under a single, globally trusted brand.

  • Shipping Solutions has a fleet of 150 vessels (ranging from 350–8,500 TEU), connecting over 200 ports through more than 16,000 port calls a year.
  • Multimodal Solutions oversees more than 100 rail modalities throughout Europe and the UK, operates 14 inland terminals, and provides specialised services for general, perishable, and high-value cargo, encompassing dedicated industrial corridors across road, rail, and sea for key clients.
  • Maritime Solutions manages a global fleet exceeding 400 vessels, which includes 17 specialised Multi-Purpose Cargo Vessels (MCVs) designed for complex project cargo operations in both shallow-draft and sea-river environments. The company is also proficient in providing Pilotage and Towage services across numerous international ports.

Together, the unified businesses will provide integrated, multimodal connectivity across continents, enabling customers to move cargo efficiently, sustainably and reliably.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at DP World, said:

“We are building a future where trade flows effortlessly. While we honour the legacy of the brands we have built, we are now evolving together as one DP World team to further enhance our customer offering across the globe. Unifying these brands complements the next natural step in our transformation journey from a leading port operator into a fully integrated global logistics provider.”

Ganesh Raj, Global Chief Operating Officer, Marine Services at DP World, said:

“As supply chains evolve, so must we. Our customers increasingly expect seamless, end-to-end service delivery. Unifying our Marine Services businesses under one brand reinforces our ability to meet that expectation while positioning ourselves for growth in an increasingly complex logistics landscape. Our customers will interact with a unified brand that represents who we are today. Employees will continue to do what they do best, delivering critical services and solutions across the global supply chain, but now under a shared identity that reflects the full strength of DP World.”

The alignment underscores DP World’s ambition to fully integrate its global business under one promise: to make trade flow. It follows successful brand integrations across its ports and terminals, economic zones, and logistics businesses.

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Freightliner agrees deal with Porterbrook for 150 new intermodal wagons

A new agreement between Freightliner and Porterbrook will see 150 new intermodal wagons on the UK railway. The wagons will be built by WH Davis. Aligning with Porterbrook’s core growth strategy, this deal supports Freightliner’s position as the UK’s largest intermodal freight operator, in addition to aiding the government’s net zero target.

The wagons will begin to arrive in Q1 of 2027, with a new design based on 40ft platforms which allow greater efficiencies in the transportation of container volumes and around a 7% carbon reduction versus 60ft platforms.

Chris Lawrenson, Managing Director for Freightliner Intermodal Logistics commented:

“Freightliner is thrilled to be partnering with Porterbrook Leasing and WH Davis on this crucial new build project. Supporting UK manufacturing wherever viable is not just important to us as a business, but also to our country’s economy. These new 40ft wagons will bring in further efficiencies to our services and increase modal share to rail from road, which in turn allows us to deliver more effectively for our customers, enabling growth and ultimately removing more lorries from our congested roads.”

Max Ordish, Head of Freight & Commercial Projects for Porterbrook, said:

“Porterbook is delighted to be working with strategic partners Freightliner and WH Davis on this innovative and decarbonised solution for the intermodal market. The order of this new wagon design serves as a landmark deal in our portfolio and will help our customer achieve greater efficiencies and fewer carbon emissions in its future operations.”

Andy Houghton, Managing Director for WH Davis, said:

“As Managing Director of WH Davis, part of Buckland Rail, I’m proud to be working alongside Porterbrook and Freightliner on this innovative, low-carbon solution for the intermodal market. Securing this order for our new wagon design represents a significant milestone for our business, and we are looking forward to building on the collaborative relationship between the three companies.”

Wabtec will be supplying the bogies for the new wagons.

Tim Bentley, Group Vice President Regional Services for Wabtec UK, said:

“Wabtec Corporation is proud to collaborate with Freightliner, WH Davies, and Porterbrook on this exciting project. Our Axiom TF20+ bogie design, together with Wabtec’s UIC brake equipment, has been selected for the new wagons. This will deliver key life cycle benefits, including extended wheel life, fuel savings, and reduced track access charges. We look forward to working closely with our partners to successfully deliver this program and provide lasting value to our customers”

Data from The Office of Road and Rail (ORR) shows that between April and June of 2025 4,088 million net tonne kilometres of rail freight was moved proving that the rail freight industry is growing and easing both traffic and emissions in UK transport.

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Siemens and Kuehne+Nagel drive low-carbon logistics with eHGV rollout

Global technology company Siemens has partnered with its long-term global logistics provider Kuehne+Nagel to roll out Electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (eHGVs) for part of its UK and Ireland logistics operations, taking a significant step forward in low-carbon supply chain solutions.

The eHGVs will replace diesel vehicles to transport and deliver materials and products to and from Siemens’ Congleton site and supplier facilities across the north of England. Operating on a “milk run” model, where a single vehicle collects or delivers goods from multiple locations on a fixed route, the new eHGVs – which have range of up to 400km and can carry up to 44 tonnes – will eliminate around 12 tonnes of CO₂e per year on a key Siemens route.

Still in its pilot stage, the initiative is the first phase of a broader collaboration between the two companies to reduce emissions and explore how this initiative can be scaled-up to electrify road freight for other Siemens sites and businesses in the UK.

Rob Matthews, Managing Director of Siemens Congleton, said:

“This partnership represents a meaningful shift in how we approach logistics and sustainability. By introducing electric Heavy Goods Vehicles into our operations at Congleton, we are not only reducing emissions but also rethinking how we deliver efficiency and resilience across our supply chain. By working closely with Kuehne+Nagel and our on-site logistics team, we’ve achieved measurable environmental benefits through the use of electric trucks – without compromising on operational excellence, reliability, on-time performance or service.

“This is a clear example of how collaboration and technology can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy while continuing to support the industries and communities we serve.”

Rob Palmer, Commercial Director at Kuehne+Nagel added:

“We’re proud to partner with Siemens in accelerating the shift to low-emission transport across their operations. It’s inspiring to see industry leaders like Siemens championing the adoption of electric trucks – setting a powerful example for how the UK can scale low-emission logistics.”

Siemens Congleton specialises in the design and production of low-voltage variable speed drives (VSDs) and power electronics. The business manufactures a high volume of controls and drives for customers globally at the facility every year.

The factory is a showcase of Siemens’ commitment to innovation and robust eco design principles, with many of the products manufactured on site holding the leading EcoTech environmental product performance label. Built with sustainable materials and circular design thinking, these products demonstrate how advanced engineering can reduce environmental impact while enhancing performance and resilience.

This approach is part of Siemens’ broader strategy to embed sustainability into every stage of product and process development, as outlined in the Siemens DEGREE Framework.

As part of its sustainability efforts, the Congleton factory also spearheaded the Havannah Weir Hydro Scheme. Developed in partnership with Dane Valley Community Energy, the project generates 75kW of renewable electricity from the River Dane and feeds it directly into the Congleton site via a 1km underground cable.

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Brian Adam’s Transport boosts white-glove fleet with new trailers from KRONE

Glasgow-based furniture and home-delivery specialist Brian Adam’s Transport has taken delivery of five dry-freight trailers from KRONE Trailer UK for its Executive Home Delivery operation.

The investment, says Brian Adam strengthens the company’s premium “white-glove” service, which supports furniture retailers with national deliveries, warehousing, stock control and trunking operations.

The new trailers are UK-spec tandem-axle KRONE Carbofont vans fitted with high-security shutter rear doors and Durabright aluminium wheels. Each trailer runs on KRONE Trusted tyres and features full KRONE telematics and LED lighting for enhanced safety and monitoring.

With an internal height of 2,615 mm, the Carbofont dry-freight trailers are ideal for high-volume furniture and other bulky items. Internal load security is assured through three rows of load lock, certified to EN 12642 Code XL, supported by 13 pairs of floor-integrated lashing rings.

A rear pull-out access ladder makes for easy and safe driver access, and KRONE backs the build with a 10-year warranty against corrosion perforation on all steel parts.

Brian Adam’s Transport has built a strong reputation across Scotland and northern England, covering some 800,000 miles annually and completing around 20,000 individual furniture deliveries each year. The company operates both as a specialist trunking contractor and as a dedicated home-delivery partner for major furniture retailers.

Under the Executive Home Delivery brand, the business provides a fully managed, one-to-two-person white-glove service, combining careful handling, uniformed staff, live tracking and flexible customer scheduling. The company also offers comprehensive warehousing, retail delivery support, removal services and stock-management solutions.

Operations Manager Andrew Adam, commenting on LinkedIn, said:

“New Trailers – Same First-Class Service! When it comes to furniture delivery, we know the right equipment makes all the difference. From trunking to 1 & 2 person deliveries, white-glove service and recycling, these beauties are built to help us deliver smarter, safer and sharper than ever before.”

The choice of KRONE Carbofont dry-frieght trailers reflects the company’s determination to combine secure, high-capacity transport with the finesse required for premium home delivery.

“KRONE’s professionalism and product quality matches our own values,” adds Andrew Adam. “Their responsive and knowledgeable service made the procurement and delivery process straightforward, and we now have trailers that truly meet the demands of modern furniture logistics.”

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Building the country more sustainably: 20 million tonnes of stone moved by rail from Dove Holes Quarry

Victa Railfreight and Cemex UK have celebrated the 20 millionth tonne of aggregates being more sustainably transported by rail from Dove Holes Quarry, in Derbyshire, to be used in major construction projects in UK cities.

In 2018 the two companies came together to move aggregates from the picturesque Peak District’s narrow, country roads onto rail, which has resulted in a successful seven year partnership built on performance, safety and supply chain resilience.

Debbie Simmons, Managing Director, Victa Railfreight, said:

“Reaching 20 million tonnes transported from Dove Holes is a testament to how rail can more sustainably support the transportation of aggregates into our inner cities to enable construction and infrastructure projects. Rail freight provides a slicker, quicker, and more sustainable solution which means thousands of lorries can be taken from our congested roads every day.

“At Victa Railfreight we stand shoulder to shoulder with our customers in supplying our expert teams in terminal management, ground staff, locomotive driving and strategic viewpoint to ensure a safe, reliable and more sustainable rail solution that delivers real value for all.

“We are very proud of our achievements so far with our valued partner, Cemex UK, and look forward to many more celebrated milestones in the future.”

Appointed by Cemex UK to manage all train arrivals, departures and shunting operations at Dove Holes, Victa Railfreight has delivered over 99% of all outbound trains to depart on time and in full, ensuring dependable onward haulage across the national rail network.

With proactive contract management and rail terminal auditing, Victa works closely with all stakeholders to optimise resources and rapidly respond to any disruption or volume fluctuations.

Around 3 million tonnes of aggregates leave Dove Holes by train every year to support construction and infrastructure projects nationwide. Victa Railfreight also co-ordinates onsite facilities for customers using their own rail providers to collect materials directly from the quarry.

Rob Wilkinson, Aggregates & Asphalt Logistics Manager, Cemex UK, said:

“Rail plays a vital role in our transport operations at Cemex and directly supports our global Future in Action strategy to cut CO₂ emissions.

“We’re incredibly proud of the strong growth in our rail operations in recent years and the positive impact this has had on our wider sustainability goals. Rail will remain a strategic priority for us, and we are committed to expanding its use as it becomes an increasingly important part of our supply chain.”

Rail operations form a key part of both companies’ sustainability strategies, offering significant environmental and safety benefits, reducing congestion, road wear and the risks faced by motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

Rail also produces around 50% less CO₂ per ton-mile than road haulage, while fewer HGVs contribute to quieter roads, improved air quality and safer communities.

This major milestone coincides with Victa Railfreight’s 30th anniversary, marking three decades of delivering innovative, sustainable and customer-focused freight solutions across the UK.

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Smart solutions help Swiss Pack navigate post-Brexit customs challenges 

As new French customs legislation looms, Europa Worldwide Group’s innovative DDP Flow solutions are ensuring exporters such as leading packaging brand Swiss Pack can keep trade moving.

From 1 January 2026, UK businesses exporting to the EU will face new regulations at the French border under Regime 42, (the post-Brexit customs process that enables goods destined for another EU country to be VAT exempt). The changes for exporters have triggered uncertainty for thousands of UK businesses, but Europa Worldwide Group has launched two new services that will simplify the process, ensuring trade with Europe can continue to thrive.

When the senior leadership team at Swiss Pack learned of regulatory changes set to come into effect in early 2026, they knew decisive action was needed. The leading global distributor of flexible packaging supplies international brands and relies heavily on smooth, reliable exports across Europe.

The latest legislation represents a significant post-Brexit shift in border procedures. From 1 January, UK exporters will face stricter requirements around Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) shipments, particularly for goods passing through France. French tax authorities have confirmed that exporters must now have either a French VAT number, or an EU-established entity must act as the importer of record.

For Swiss Pack, whose shipments reach customers across Ireland, Benelux, France, Germany, Spain and Greece, the implications were significant with every consignment at risk of disruption.

The local sales branch for Swiss Pack is the Heathrow office of European road freight operator Europa Road, and they stepped in to tackle the issue.

Europa, one of the UK’s largest independent logistics operators, has worked with Swiss Pack for the past 18 months. Over the past two months, Europa worked closely with the customer to navigate the latest changes to trade rules. Recognising the growing complexity of EU-UK commerce, Europa’s in-house expert customs team presented a suite of tailored solutions designed to ensure business continuity. 

George Wrench, General Manager, Customs & Compliance at Europa Worldwide Group, said:

“As soon as we knew about the changes, we started looking at options to support exporters.

“Early on, our focus was supporting customers, like Swiss Pack, explaining the forthcoming changes and providing clarity, reassurance, and alternative options for exporters in the UK so that they can continue to navigate the complex trading environment.”

The result was an extension of Europa Flow, the company’s flagship DDP solution that originally launched to tackle Brexit challenges. Europa was the first logistics provider to deliver a DDP solution for road freight travelling from the UK to Europe.  Europa Flow gave businesses, who were struggling under the bureaucracy around EU trade, a reliable route and leading transit times during a period of unprecedented uncertainty. 

Europa Flow revolutionised UK-EU road freight by allowing exporters to sell goods DDP — eliminating customs friction for EU buyers while maintaining control over logistics and compliance.

Now, Europa has taken that innovation further with the launch of two new services DDP Flow – Importer’s Signature and DDP Flow – Own French VAT Number.  These integrate with both HMRC and French Customs, providing exporters with two simple alternatives to comply with the changes that come into force on 1st January 2026.

With over 100 in-house customs specialists operating across both the UK and EU, Europa has the scale and expertise to keep trade flowing. 

The latest in a long line of innovations to improve trade for its customers post-Brexit, Europa’s services integrate seamlessly into HMRC and French Customs to ensure efficiency and control for businesses.

Swiss Pack has grown into a recognised global packaging manufacturer with operations in five continents and production capabilities based in Asia.  The company provides both stock and bespoke flexible packaging, from stand-up pouches and coffee valve bags to shrink sleeves and custom labels for sectors ranging from food, beverage, healthcare, and retail.

As a business exporting thousands of shipments across Europe, Swiss Pack’s leadership knew early preparation was essential. Partnering with Europa allowed them not only to continue to use Regime 42 to exempt VAT charges, but also to position themselves for continued growth across the continent.

The collaboration between Swiss Pack and Europa encapsulates what’s needed in today’s global trading landscape: proactivity, collaboration, and a deep understanding of customs compliance.

“We’ve engaged with Swiss Pack and hundreds of other customers to address their concerns,” said Adrian Redmile, Branch Network and Sales Director at Europa.  

“Our expert customs professionals have been able to provide reassurance and identify the best-fit solutions for their needs.”

For Swiss Pack, the partnership has delivered peace of mind ahead of a period of change. For Europa, it marks the latest evolution in its mission to simplify global trade for UK exporters.

As January 2026 approaches, one thing is clear: with the right partners and forward-thinking logistics innovation, British businesses can continue to thrive in European markets — no matter how complex the rules.

Europa Worldwide Group is one of the largest independent logistics operators in the UK and has a customs presence at key EU points of entry and exit, being the largest customs broker in Calais. Europa controls both the transport and the clearance on behalf of its customers rather than relying on third-party support.

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PAV Haulage set for new long-term home at London Gateway Logistics Park

Credit: Miru Visuals

DP World is set to welcome transport and logistics provider PAV Haulage to a state-of-the-art facility at its London Gateway Logistics Park.

In Q1 2026, PAV Haulage will move into the 94,000 sq. ft. facility – LG94 – on a 20-year lease, which includes plans for a new expansion onto an adjacent development plot. When the expansion is complete, the facility will be able to accommodate extensive HGV parking, helping to support PAV Haulage’s commercial expansion as they take up tenancy of their flagship unit in London Gateway.

Built to meet DP World’s extensive sustainability standards, LG94 has been awarded an EPC Rating ‘A’ and BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certificate, as well as being fitted out with rooftop Solar PVs to provide renewable energy to PAV Haulage throughout their tenancy.

Alan Holland, Chief Executive Officer, DP World London Gateway Logistics Park, said:

“Welcoming PAV Haulage to the Logistics Park reflects the ongoing confidence that new customers are placing in London Gateway. Thanks to our strategic location on the doorstep of the capital, tri-modal connectivity and expedited planning framework under the LDO, we are well positioned to support PAV Haulage’s next chapter.

“With over half the Logistics Park now developed and occupied, we are excited to continue building a logistics ecosystem at London Gateway that drives growth for our customers, creates new jobs, and future-proofs supply chains across the UK.”

Dean Mills, Chief Executive Officer, PAV Haulage, said:

“With this warehouse, we’re at the heart of smart logistics – and we’re only just getting started. London Gateway is the perfect base for the scale and ambition we’re bringing to the industry.”

The 9.25m sq. ft. Logistics Park has undergone significant expansion in recent years, with half of its site now developed. Supporting thousands of jobs on site, the park is backed by a 10-year LDO, which fast-tracks new building applications to ensure the continued expansion of the logistics hub.

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Premier Logistics acquires WT Transport

Leicestershire-based family business Premier Logistics has completed the acquisition and merger of WT Transport, a strategic move designed to create operational efficiencies, enable growth across new industry sectors and secure the long-term future of both organisations for the next generation.

Together, the combined businesses will operate 110 trucks, employ 220 staff, offer 330,000 sq ft of high-quality warehousing, strategically located just off the M1, and generate annual turnover in excess of £30 million.

Their combined force will enable future growth by allowing them to tender for larger logistics contracts supported by increased capacity, enhanced capability and an expanded operational footprint. Premier Logistics is a member of Palletforce and the Transport Association, while WT Transport adds membership of the TPN and Hazchem pallet networks, FORS Silver accreditation and ISO-certified warehousing operations.

Formed in 2004 by Managing Director Lee Christopher, Premier Logistics has built its success on strong family values underpinned by a principled and customer-centric approach. Reflecting the company’s commitment to long-term succession, Lee’s sons are now playing active roles within the business, paving the way for the next generation to develop an innovative and forward-thinking approach.

Macauley Christopher is taking the commercial route as Client Relationship Manager at Premier Logistics, while brother Sam is gaining operational experience in the warehouse and on pallet network operations having acquired his HGV licence.

Lee Christopher said:

“Premier Logistics and WT Transport are the perfect fit and, as proud family businesses, share a commitment to quality values, service excellence and integrity.

“Our partnership will unlock the benefits of significant operational synergies, drive efficiencies and support sustainable, long-term growth across a diverse range of customer segments.

“Crucially this is also about securing the longevity of both businesses, succession planning and providing a platform for the next generation to come through and take things forward. It provides us with greater strength and capability, enhances competitiveness and enables investment in infrastructure, technology and our people – all while guaranteeing long-term service continuity for our customers.”

WT Transport, strategically located at J15a of the M1 in Northampton, has been operating for over 28 years under the leadership of directors Warren and Sarah Tattersall. Its people-first ethos has helped the company build a strong reputation for delivering bespoke logistics solutions to a loyal and expanding client base. It also operates a significant warehousing facility with high-bay, VNA racking to support E-commerce, order picking and fulfilment.

Warren Tattersall said:

“WT Transport has achieved a lot over recent years and we are pleased to have agreed a strategy which will see us working in partnership with Lee and the Premier Logistics team to secure an exciting future for the business.

“Our combined strength will be a force for the future as we continue to leverage our family values to power growth and deliver exceptional service that adds real value for our customers.

“This partnership will help secure the future of WT Transport. By ensuring a ‘stronger together’ approach we will enhance operational resilience and ensure we have the agility to tackle industry challenges and capitalise on emerging market opportunities.”

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