Palletforce Networker | Autumn 2024

NETWORKER the magazine for our members

AUTUMN 2024

MOTOR TRANSPORT AWARDS 2024

CAMPEYS’ PRIZE HAUL Eire we go!

WOODSIDE JOINS PALLETFORCE

Events calendar

EVENTS CALENDAR

2

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS

OCT OCT

PALLETFORCE SHOWCASE

Brighton & Hove Albion 15 October

8 October

SCOTTISH FOOD & DRINK AWARDS

Hilton Glasgow Central, Glasgow

9 October

Hull Football Club

17 October

OCT

Nestle East Midlands Gateway 23 October

PALLETFORCE MGM

FEB

St George’s Park, Burton Upon Trent 6 February 2025

THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

CON 4

TRADE BOOST

6

GETTING STRONGER

8

HAUL RIGHT NOW

Woodside Logistics Group joins

Another new member

Campeys’ MTA victory

MARK TAPPER

Our solid foundations

I

’m delighted to welcome you to another Networker magazine and it is a particular pleasure to update you on some of the developments across the network since the last edition - changes which will make a tangible difference to our members and their customers.

The economic climate is still a challenge, so it is more important than ever that we maintain our unrivalled service and continue to enhance our offering.

We are all hopeful that UK Plc will get going and the economic climate will improve, but, while we wait for that, what we at Palletforce have that other networks don’t is that bedrock of excellent service levels, the capacity and resources to ensure consistency and stability and the sector knowledge which ensures our business is secure, growing and fit for purpose.

That is why more quality members are choosing Palletforce.

In this edition, we reveal more details of our partnership with Woodside Logistics Group, a move that will further enhance our ability to export to the island of Ireland. It enables us to launch our new, market-leading All-Ireland express distribution service. This will result in simplified customs processes, an enhanced delivery network and a renewed focus on service excellence. All of this will provide Palletforce members with a competitive advantage in Ireland.

None of this would be happening without your efforts. It is only by working together that we maintain such high standards, standards which other networks simply can’t match.

We have also recently launched our ETA and Picture on Pod services. Once again, we have listened to what members want and what the market demands and come up with solutions that put us ahead of our rivals in terms of technology and customer service.

For that, particularly in difficult times, I thank you. For all the changes and improvements that we at Palletforce make, our network is fundamentally about our members. And no one has members like Palletforce.

It is innovations like this, backed by our market knowledge and our expert strategic planning, that mean we are continuing to take market share despite the instability in the sector.

MARK TAPPER Chief Executive Officer

NTENTS Palletforce

10

WARE IT’S AT

22

TERRIFIC TECH

12

PUTTING ON A SHOW

24

ONE VISION

16

SWING COMMANDERS

28

MEMBER NEWS

JK Philips’ warehouse revolution

SuperHub showcase

Record-breaking golf day

ETAs and Picture on Pod

Excellence in Action programme

News from across the network 3

NEW MEMBER

WOODSIDE RECRUITMENT MEANS A SIMPLIFIED CUSTOMS

WE’RE ON

YOUR SIDE O ne of Ireland’s most successful transport companies has joined the Palletforce distribution network, providing Palletforce

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

members with a marketplace advantage and their customers with an unrivalled and streamlined service for freight distribution across the island of Ireland.

Woodside Logistics Group has become the latest member of the award-winning

Palletforce express distribution network and will handle the network’s operations in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Headquartered in Ballynure in Northern Ireland, and with operational

NEW MEMBER

PROCESS & ENHANCED DELIVERY SERVICE FOR MEMBERS

Our expertise in handling freight crossing the Irish Sea and focus on simplifying the processes around customs clearance will provide Palletforce members with the confidence to offer their customers a market-leading solution across Ireland. depots across the Republic of Ireland, Woodside Logistics Group was established in 1967 by Robert and Ian Woodside. The group employs 670 staff and operates nearly 300 vehicles across general haulage, motor freight, tanker

and bulk logistics and global freight forwarding businesses.

Today Robert’s son Simon is Managing Director of the Woodside Distribution division, a specialist in the movement of palletised freight between the UK and Irish markets and will operate dedicated Palletforce branded, double-deck trailers and a fleet of rigid collection and delivery vehicles on its operation.

With simplified processes and enhanced customs clearance, the new service will provide Palletforce members with a competitive advantage when it comes to shipping freight across the Irish Sea. A member of the Transport Association, Woodside Logistics Group’s decision to join Palletforce was based on the close alignment of business values around trust, service and a culture of delivery excellence. The new partnership will also help create operational advantages for Woodside and its customers as they benefit from the Palletforce network, infrastructure and expertise across mainland UK. Simon Woodside, Woodside Distribution Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to be joining the Palletforce network. As a family business, we share similar synergies around customer care, service excellence and providing a hasslefree approach with professional depot communication and interaction.

“Our expertise in handling freight crossing the Irish Sea and focus on simplifying the processes around customs clearance will provide Palletforce members with the confidence to offer their customers a market-leading solution across Ireland, opening up new trade opportunities.

“We’ve invested in additional vehicles, extended our cross-dock facilities and recruited staff to bolster our customs clearance and customer service resource, and are excited by the opportunities it creates for us.”

Mark Tapper, Palletforce Chief Executive, said: “Securing a marketleading freight transport business with the reputation, customer-centric approach and market expertise that Woodside Logistics Group possesses is an extremely important move to deliver the best possible solution for our members.

“This new partnership with Woodside allows us further enhance the personal approach by improving depot communication, removing hassle and streamlining processes to enable greater trade.

“I’m extremely confident that Simon and his team will deliver a trusted service to enable our members and their customers to develop market opportunities across Ireland, safe in their knowledge their freight is being handled by the market experts.”

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NEW MEMBER

IRMS ROWING OGETHER

Picture On POD boosts customer service with image at delivery

Palletforce strengthens network with another new member

P

alletforce continues to strengthen its network in strategic areas with the addition of new member hauliers, and West Sussex business FGT is the latest to join the Palletforce ranks.

Based in Bognor Regis, and established in 2004 as F&G Transport, the business operates from two strategically located sites with a combined 30,000 sq ft of warehousing space, offering a comprehensive range of distribution solutions, container services and contract logistics.

Catering to a diverse client list across the manufacturing, home, garden supplies and automotive sectors,

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FGT’s business ethos has consistently centred on the development of its pallet network operations.

Covering western PO postcodes around Fareham and Wickham, the business has joined Palletforce to capitalise on its exceptional

THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

service levels and harness the expansive reach of its network to ensure customers benefit from unrivalled UKwide service.

Emma Lindsley, FGT Managing Director, said: “Service, quality and credibility are crucial to our business and joining Palletforce provides us with all of that and more.

“Through this partnership with one of the biggest and best pallet networks, Palletforce will be able to support our growth aspirations. The quality of the entire network and its membership will ensure we uphold the highest service levels across the UK,

further strengthening our commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence.”

Chris Dennigan, Palletforce Member Relations Director, said: “We’d like to welcome Emma and the entire team at FGT to Palletforce. The quality of the Palletforce network offers our members and their customers the stability of unwavering, best-in-sector customer service.

“It’s for that reason that we continue to gain significant market share as our members benefit from a collaborative approach which delivers unrivalled service continuity and consistent performance that their customers trust.”

SUPERHUB VISIT

The finest levels of customer service

Nestle staff get the lowdown on the whole Palletforce operation

T

he Palletforce sales team hosted Nestle employees at our SuperHub. The Nestle employees spent the whole day at Palletforce to get a full overview of the operation.

Sales Director Simon Bradbury gave a presentation, while there were EV Cargo divisional presentations from Commercial Director Dan Mowbray and Ruth Bardsley, Divisional Director Supply Chain Management EV Cargo Global Forwarding.

Nestle were also given a review of 2023/24 service, volume and trends as well as demonstrations of the Palletforce Alliance portal and the forklift trucks.

Simon Bradbury said: “We hosted multiple Nestle employees at our SuperHub so that they could learn more about what we do, how

we deliver their goods and understand EV Cargo’s wider offering.

“The day included a welcome lunch, presentations

from members of the team, an FLT demonstration and of course an evening hub tour to see the Palletforce magic in action.”

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AWARDS SUCCESS

Campeys of Selby receive their award from Alan Carr (left).

CAMPEYS ARE THE

BEST OF HAUL Family firm named Haulier of Year at Motor Transport Awards

C

ampeys of Selby has been named Haulier of the Year at the 2024 Motor Transport Awards, with judges celebrating a “forward-looking haulier that sees challenges as opportunities”.

Campeys beat competition from some of the UK’s biggest and best logistics companies to claim the award.

The judges’ decision, announced at the glittering Park Lane awards ceremony in early September, is recognition of one of the UK road haulage sector’s outstanding success stories.

Campeys’ focus on intelligent leadership, environmental awareness, innovation and customer service has combined to bring growth and success.

The company has grown from two

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

vehicles in 2007 to 130 trucks today.

And this forward-looking philosophy has enabled it to have the agility to respond to market challenges and new environmental expectations.

Led by Managing Director Paul Campey and his son Harry, the Commercial & Operations Director, the business undertook a significant strategy review after Covid to ensure it

AWARDS SUCCESS

Palletforce guests at the Motor Transport Awards

could overcome any future market and economic challenges.

They focused on efficiency, sweating business assets, creating value for customers and ensuring the company had the agility to respond quickly.

They embarked on a journey to be net zero by 2030 and Campeys is now an industry leader in sustainability and decarbonisation.

Campeys grew turnover by 38% from 2021 to 2022. In the last 12 months, in the face of rising operating costs, economic challenges and declining volumes, Campeys continued to deliver service excellence, cost reduction and sustainable transport to a growing customer base.

Its Palletforce volumes have increased

from 98 pallets weekly in 2022 to 1,348 in 2024.

This robust financial performance during 2023, coupled with Campeys embracing efficiency, digitalisation and sustainability to reduce waste, create customer value and protect its business, was one of the major factors in the victory.

The judges said: “Campeys is a forward-looking haulier that sees the challenges as opportunities.

“Its progress on decarbonisation of the fleet is commendable and of scale in relation to its overall fleet, which shows its commitment to invest for the long term.

“This is a family business that is displaying all of those values, has a focus

on the drivers and uses the latest in-cab technology.”

Paul Campey said: “We are absolutely delighted to win this award. It is a tribute to every one who works with us every day to ensure we provide the best, most efficient, most environmentally aware service to our customers.”

Harry Campey added: “We conducted a review after the Covid pandemic to ensure we were in the right position to overcome any future challenges.

“The way everyone in the team responded to that – from our increased focus on customer service to the changes we are making to be as environmentally responsible as possible – has been brilliant and the secret of our success. The challenge for us now is to continue to innovate and to continue to find new ways to stand out from the crowd.”

The win was particularly welcomed on the Palletforce table. Palletforce sponsored the Operational Excellence Award this year.

Palletforce Chief Executive Mark Tapper said: “It was wonderful to see Campeys collect such a well-deserved award.

“They are a company that everyone in the industry can look up to and learn from and we are incredibly proud to see a network member be honoured at the Motor Transport Awards.”

Some Really Clever awards submissions Campeys’ winning Motor Transport Awards submission was written and produced by Really Clever PR, marking another notable success for the specialist logistics PR and marketing company.

The Campeys submission impressed judges by clearly focussing on the most important and relevant aspects of the business for the Haulier of the Year category.

Really Clever PR has years of experience in writing entries for transport and logistics awards and has produced winning MTA submissions for Palletforce and EV Cargo in recent years.

The company has exclusively provided PR support to Palletforce for nearly 10 years and offers a range of discounted

packages to Palletforce members.

• For more information email Glenn Patterson at glenn@reallycleverpr.com.

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MEMBER ANNIVERSARY

From left: Mick McDowell (General Manager), Maggie McMellon (Finance Director), John Philips (CEO), Paul Bailey (Warehouse Manager), Alan Simpson (Managing Director), Karrie Hughes (Commercial Director), Diane MacDonald (Traffic Office Manager).

50 YEARS OF THINKING ABOUT THE J FUTURE ohn K Philips is celebrating 50 years as one of the highest regarded hauliers in the north west – not by looking back but by literally moving forward.

John K Philips Group has relocated from St Helens to a state-of-the-art, carbonneutral new 135,000sq ft warehouse and office building in Warrington.

The facility – Solar 120 ‑ is powered by solar panels and includes LED lighting, 20 electric charging points, two level access, 10 dock level loading doors and heat pumps. It won Building of the Year at the National Sustainability Awards last year and shows the group’s commitment to sustainability with the ability to offer carbon-neutral warehousing to clients.

Commercial Director Karrie Hughes says: “Sustainability is a big priority over cost for larger companies and we are planning a significant investment in electric vehicles to add to the five electric forklifts which are powered by the warehouse’s solar panels.

“The new location is close to the motorway and more central between

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

John K Philips celebrates milestone in revolutionary carbon-neutral warehouse Founder John Philips

Manchester and Liverpool, which should attract new customers and reduce delivery miles. That all goes alongside our membership of the Palletforce

network, which allows us to provide an environmental solution to reduce empty mileage and delivery emissions.”

All this focus on technology and

MEMBER ANNIVERSARY

Commercial Director Karrie Hughes

innovation might seem a long way from the company’s humble beginnings in 1974, when as a truck repair garage owner John Philips was asked to do some deliveries. But it isn’t. Fifty years on, John K Philips still has the same core ethos – delivering what their clients want.

Karrie adds: “From the off, when there was a customer-led demand for us to branch out into deliveries, to now, when companies are demanding sustainable logistics solutions, our relationship with our clients has been key.

“Over the years the approach has always been about adapting to customer requirements and never saying no.

Our slogan is ‘Your complete logistics solution’ – we always aim to deliver on time, provide service excellence, be honest with our customers, build relationships on a willingness to adapt and change to meet our customer needs.

“The move was a win-win for us - we wanted to be one of the most environmentally friendly logistics

companies in the country and our customers are desperate to decarbonise their supply chains.”

And throughout all of the changes, John Philips has been a constant presence helping to guide the business forward and expand its operations.

He says: “We have made a significant investment in our new headquarters and warehouse to give us additional storage capacity in line with our plans for future growth. We’ve been growing steadily year-on-year by 15 per cent, and our aim is to continue to expand at this rate.

“Sustainability is a priority for our business and our relocation to Solar120 enables us to deliver significant further progress in this area.

“Alongside this, we continue to invest in our people and in technology to drive efficiency and productivity.

“It’s an exciting time for the business as we celebrate our 50th anniversary.”

As the company added to its fleet throughout the 1970s, a pivotal moment

was winning a contract with an international paint business and the business grew from there.

In the late 1980s the business moved to a site in St Helens and built offices, 40k sq ft, and then won another paint contract in 2003 and moved to a new 120,000 warehouse in the town.

The 2000s have been characterised by rapid growth – 40% from 2016-2018, thanks to a contract with Honeywell and an appointment as its DC for chemical storage and distribution, a deal with JD Outdoors in 2019 with the contract growing five times in a few months, and 15% year-on-year from 2019 under new MD Alan Simpson.

Karrie adds: “He ensured we had the right team, streamlined processes, cut costs, invested in technology.”

John K Philips now has a fleet of 35 trucks and 32 trailers and employees 80 staff. All of its drivers have specialist ADR training and its fleet is ADR compliant.

Being part of the Palletforce network continues to be a major driving force, with four trucks travelling to the SuperHub every day and the network accounting for 70% of its business.

Karrie says: “This is an amazing time for everyone here. To move to such an extraordinary warehousing and office building, to be leading the way in sustainability and to be celebrating 50 years of business, it has been busy but brilliant.”

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SUPERHUB SHOWCASE

PALLET SECTOR’S FIRST EVER SHOWCASE HELPS MEMBERS

SHOW

BUSINESS A customer showcase event, the first of its kind in the pallet network sector, has allowed Palletforce members to strengthen customer

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

relationships and secure new business by giving them an insight into the operational excellence at the beating heart of the network.

More than 100 attendees including Palletforce members and their

customers joined the showcase event at the Palletforce SuperHub in Burton upon Trent which included presentations, a complete tour of the national hub and a behind-the-scenes look into the quality processes that

SUPERHUB SHOWCASE

STRENGTHEN RELATIONSHIPS WITH THEIR CUSTOMERS

The showcase event has helped us strengthen our customer relationships and secure additional new business. Our customers were very impressed with the hub operations underpin the network’s reputation for customer and delivery excellence.

An exclusive tour through the centre of the SuperHub immersed customers in the energy and scale of the network operations, where freight from 15,000

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SUPERHUB SHOWCASE

daily trading customer accounts is handled every night.

There was an opportunity for customers to experience Palletforce’s patented technology in action, including instant pallet weighing, scanning and image capture, which allows it to provide real-time updates and unrivalled freight visibility as goods pass through the hub.

The award-winning systems deliver efficiency benefits, helping decrease turnaround times and allowing members’ trucks to return to their depots earlier.

Simon Bradbury, Palletforce Sales Director, said: “We are fortunate that we have the SuperHub as a sector-leading

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

facility to showcase the infrastructure, processes and technology that is the bedrock of our network operations.

“It’s fair to say customers were blown away by the scale of our hub operations, and how the efficiency of our processes, combined with the award-winning technology deployed on our forklifts, helps generate additional customer value.

“The event helps our members retain and win new business, as well as cementing customer relationships.

It has really given customers a unique insight and better understanding into how the entire network is focused on

delivering excellence and the highest possible quality service.

“We also discussed a range of other exclusive benefits including our EV Scope emissions reporting tool, our commitment to quality through SMETA

It’s fair to say customers were blown away by the scale of our hub operations, and how the efficiency of our processes, combined with the award-winning technology deployed on our forklifts

SUPERHUB SHOWCASE

accreditation and how Palletforce is the first network to achieve the RoSPA Order of Distinction for excellence in health and safety.”

Anthony Delaney, Sales and Marketing Director at Palletforce member Onpoint Group, said: “The showcase event has helped us strengthen our customer relationships and secure additional new business. Our customers were very impressed with the hub operations and those who may have been hesitant to use a pallet network were converted by the quality processes, technology and skilled people than underpin our service offering.”

Sign up to join the brunch bunch The showcase was such a success that Palletforce is holding another customer brunch event on October 8, from 11am until 3pm.

Simon Bradbury added: “This is a great opportunity for members to invite new prospect and existing customers to gain an insight into the pallet network sector, a chance to find out more about the Palletforce member network, our fantastic services, people, hub, IT platforms and what makes us different.

“Our aim at Palletforce is to collaborate with our members and customers to ensure the trading relationship remains at the forefront of a successful and sustainable partnership.”

To secure your place, please confirm your attendance with the Palletforce Events Team at events@palletforce. com by Friday, 27th September. All customers who attend the event will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win a weekend city break.

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ANNUAL GOLF DAY

PERFECT

DRIVING

Record entry and charity fundraising at annual golf event

P

alletforce’s annual golf day attracted a record entry as colleagues, members and customers took on the world-famous Brabazon course at the Belfry Golf

Club.

A total of 110 players – up from 71 last year – enjoyed a day of high-quality golf, presentation ceremony and an evening dinner at the Belfry, in the process raising over £1,000 for charity.

A joint team from Wyvern Cargo and Wm Armstrong won the day, while the best individual golfer was Matthew Canwell.

The 110 players included teams from Palletforce members and their key

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

more people want to join us on the golf day every year shows just what a great event it is.

“Everything Palletforce does is about its members and it was great to see so many of them at such an iconic venue.

“It is such a fun day and being able to raise so much money for a charity as important as Fareshare is an added bonus.” customers. The day raised £1,040 for the Fareshare food charity, of which Palletforce has been a long-time supporter.

Palletforce Executive Vice President Marketing and Communications Dave Holland said: “The fact that more and

ANNUAL GOLF DAY

WINNERS NEAREST PIN 12TH: LONGEST DRIVE 8th MOST GOLF PLAYED THIRD SECOND FIRST TEAM WINNERS

Greg Wright Nick Lloyd Stuart Pearce (2pts) 37pts Joseph Burns 40pts Paul Booth 42pts Matthew Canwell 89pts Wyvern Cargo & Wm Armstrong: Simon Sparrowhawk, Evan Sparrowhawk, Geof Armstrong & John Sansby

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ANNUAL GOLF DAY

The 2024 winning team from Wyvern Cargo and Wm Armstrong

Beat the pro: Evan Sparrowhawk

Nearest the pin: Greg Wright

Longest drive: Nick Lloyd

Most golf played: Stuart Pearce

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

ANNUAL GOLF DAY

First place: Matthew Canwell

Second place: Paul Booth

Third place: Joseph Burns

19

SAFETY RECOGNITION

The highest order Palletforce earns Order of Distinction for safety from Royal Society

P

alletforce is continuing to set health and safety standards in the sector after becoming the first UK palletised freight network to receive the prestigious Order of Distinction from RoSPA (the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) for earning its 15th consecutive Gold Award.

The Order of Distinction recognises Palletforce’s remarkable consistency in displaying the very highest levels of health and safety in the workplace for 15 consecutive years.

Palletforce prioritises safety on a daily basis with an unrelenting focus on the safety and wellbeing of its employees and visiting member drivers to ensure everyone gets home safely every day.

The RoSPA Health and Safety Awards are the largest occupational health and safety awards programme in the UK and recognise organisations’ commitment to continuous improvement in the prevention of accidents and ill health at work.

Palletforce works closely with its 120 member transport businesses to drive the highest levels of safety through the implementation of the latest health and safety procedures and investment in welfare facilities for staff and visitors.

Palletforce Health and Safety Manager Beverley Knight said: “It is an amazing honour to receive an Order

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of Distinction from such a prestigious organisation as RoSPA. The exceptional levels of safety and longterm consistency required to achieve this are a testament to how hard everyone at Palletforce works to maintain standards coupled with our ongoing investment in safe operating processes to ensure we continue to lead the sector.

“We know that accidents at work and work-related ill health not only cause major disruptions to business processes, but the effect on quality of life to the individual cannot be understated, so our safety procedures are never taken lightly.

Mark Tapper, Palletforce Chief Executive Officer, added: “To be awarded the gold standard from RoSPA for 15 years has needed investment, innovation and dedication as well as a laserlike focus on the safety and wellbeing of our colleagues

THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

and visitors to drive continuous improvement.

“Palletforce is an ethical and socially responsible company and keeping both our staff and our visitors safe is central for us and is a key part of our governance and sustainability strategy.”

The RoSPA Awards are one of the most prestigious and recognised schemes in the world with almost 2,000 entries every year across nearly 50 countries and a reach of over 7 million employees.

Julia Small, RoSPA’s Achievements Director, said: “Workplace accidents don’t just pose financial risks and operational disruptions; they significantly impact the quality of life for individuals.

This is why acknowledging and rewarding excellent safety performance is vital.

“We congratulate Palletforce for winning a prestigious RoSPA Award and showing an unwavering commitment to keeping employees, clients and customers safe from accidental harm and injury.”

BUSINESS PROMOTION

Great exposure at transport show

Highlighting the qualities of the Palletforce team at Expo

T

he Palletforce team exhibited at the Road Transport Expo in June.

The purpose of the event was to connect within current members and speak to hauliers who are looking to join the Palletforce network.

The Expo focused on fun at the fair, with Palletforce running its own hoopla stand, with prizes ranging from Palletforce bucket hats and giant teddies to the chance to win an iPad. And there were Palletforce popcorn and candy floss machines on hand too to keep everyone sweet.

Head of Marketing & Communications Danielle Owen said: “This was a great way to meet current and

potential members.

“We concentrated on showcasing how much emphasis we place on building personal relationships.

“We are not a faceless organisation and Palletforce prioritises always being there to help members.

“It was lovely to get to see people and everyone enjoyed having a go at the hoopla – and testing the popcorn and candyfloss.”

The Palletforce stand highlighted that the company has a fun and friendly team to work with, alongside being a leading pallet network.

At the Road Transport Expo, Palletforce also sponsored the business breakfast event.

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TECHNOLOGY UPDATE

TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS INTRODUCED TO INCREASE

PUTTING YOU IN

THE PICTURE

Picture On POD boosts customer service with image at delivery

P

alletforce, the UK’s premier express freight distribution network, continues to lead freight visibility in the pallet network sector with its new Picture On POD technology helping strengthen its range of initiatives to keep customers connected with their goods.

The new Picture on Pod service provides all members and their customers with a photograph at the point of freight delivery for all pallet consignments, part of the network’s commitment to an unrivalled customer experience.

As well as visual confirmation to ensure transparency and accountability, Picture on POD adds significant value to members, allowing them to verify the condition of goods upon delivery, facilitating smoother transactions and making the delivery process more efficient.

Picture on POD is the latest addition to Palletforce’s sector-leading technology offering and ensures Palletforce members can offer unrivalled visibility of their customers’ goods at every step of the delivery process.

Palletforce was first to launch the Pallet Selfie, where instant images are taken by

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the company’s fleet of forklift trucks at the SuperHub. Using patented technology exclusive to Palletforce, they instantly weigh, scan and image capture every single pallet of freight passing through the network, helping deliver live tracking and real-time updates.

Combined with Alliance Sense, unique AI-inspired technology which predicts potential delivery issues

THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

before they happen, and EV Scope, an innovative tool which reports on emissions for every single consignment, Palletforce members have access to exclusive innovations which provide them with a competitive advantage.

Palletforce CEO Mark Tapper said: “Customer experience and service excellence continues to drive everything we do at Palletforce and the launch of Picture on POD, alongside our established imaging and tracking platforms, will

ensure our customers stay connected with their freight at every step.

“Our unwavering focus on service is resulting in Palletforce gaining market share and, in today’s competitive marketplace, the strength, stability and reputation of our network and the consistent quality performance it delivers is solidifying our position even further.”

Our unwavering focus on service is resulting in Palletforce gaining market share

TECHNOLOGY UPDATE

FREIGHT VISIBILITY AND DELIVERY TIME INFORMATION

A TIMELY

ARRIVAL

New service increases our freight traceability

P

alletforce is adding to its technologyled offering with an Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) feature for deliveries.

This enhancement provides customers with a precise three-hour window for their shipments, allowing them to plan and manage their day more effectively.

Key benefits of the new system for members include: PRECISION AND CONVENIENCE: Our ETA windows deliver precise timing, so there’s no waiting around—just reliable, ontime arrivals every time.

FLEXIBLE AND ACCURATE: Enjoy a delivery window of

up to three hours or even less.

REAL-TIME UPDATES: Receive notifications via email or text with the ETA details, helping your customer stay informed every step of the way.

ENHANCED EFFICIENCY: Reduce time spent on answering phone calls and manually tracking consignments. Let our

system do the work for you.

Palletforce’s advanced tracking software calculates the ETA for each consignment. The software integrates seamlessly with members’ transport management systems for automated ETA calculations.

Members also have the option of manually adding ETAs per individual

consignment when needed, to provide extra flexibility and control.

The system also has options for both email and SMS notifications.

Palletforce CEO Mark Tapper said: “ETAs are something that our members asked for and, as always, we responded to that and have been determined to provide the best possible system, with the highest levels of integration.

“This is all about ease of use and making sure this is a real selling point for our members to use to promote their services to their customers.

“The ability to share ETA information with customers will help to manage their expectations and ensure a great relationship between them.

“Technology has always been at the heart of Palletforce’s offering and we take great pride in the visibility and traceability we provide for all consignments.”

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EXCELLENCE IN ACTION

IT’S A VISION

T

THING

he Palletforce team came together for an unforgettable event to celebrate the launch of the new Mission, Vision, and Values (MVV) and the introduction of the “Excellence in Action” employee champion programme.

The Mission, Vision, and Values are more than just words – they are the guiding principles that shape our daily work and future E WHO WE AR aspirations: MISSION: Be the express pallet ution network s pallet distrib d our Be the expres distribution network of choice for r members an ou for ice cho of first tomers. cus ’ ers mb me our members and their customers.

R VISION: Become the market leaders STRIVE FO WHAT WE of the express palletised distribution sector. the express rket leaders of Become the ma on sector.

VALUES: Act with Integrity, Be uti trib dis d ise pallet Courageous, Drive Innovation, Stay INCIPLES Agile, Embrace Teamwork.

GUIDING PR These elements define our ans e, integrity me commitment to excellence, innovation, ITY At Palletforc nsparency, and ACT WITH INTEGR y, tra ritising honest trust and prio g ly ldin ent bui sist s, con and integrity, and they are the tion in all our interac accountability foundation upon which we build reliability. letforce, courage at Pal , S We embrace g the status quo our strategies and interactions. As a BE COURAGEOU ves, challengin iati init head-on d bol et challenges me encouraging to er oth g each forward-thinking company, we aim to and empowerin ss. to drive progre orce, driving ensure every team member thrives, is key at Palletf that N Innovation and processes , ies DRIVE INNOVATIO log hno ideas, tec s. contributing to a positive and dynamic us to seek new er experience tom cus and ncy enhance efficie quick work environment. ability to make s, ility defines our ng circumstance our STAY AGILE Ag iftly to changi sw ining pt inta ada ma ns, The event also marked the launch of decisio er needs, tom cus and s, market demand e. our “Excellence in Action” champion competitive edg one cohesive orce, we are ORK At Palletf , MW TEA programme. This initiative is dedicated to EMBRACE ion, and values vis n, sio . mis in our eptional results team, united to deliver exc ssly mle sea ting fostering positive change and building a collabora culture of wellness and teamwork within Palletforce.

OUR MISSION OUR VISION

OUR VALUES

Through “Excellence in Action,” we aim to: PROMOTE POSITIVE CHANGE: Encourage innovative thinking and initiatives that enhance our workplace and operations.

SUPPORT WELLNESS: Prioritize the well-being of our team, ensuring that everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered.

BUILD TEAMWORK: Strengthen our 18/04/2024

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

Mission vision

values banner.indd

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14:56

EXCELLENCE IN ACTION

MEET OUR NEW...

Employee EINXCAECLTLEIONNCE Champions Kate Brooker

kate.brooker

@palletforce. com 07849 082953

Shona Callow

shona.callow

@palletforce. com 07702 520646

EXCEL IN ACTLENCE ION

Kim Raffle

kim.raffle@pal letforce.c 07749 415801 om

Lee Matthews

lee.matthews@

palletforc 07849 086599 e.com

tia.

Tia Newbold

newbold@pal letforce.com If you have 07743 930782 any suggestio ns for making would like to Palletforce an raise any co ncerns, pleas even better pla e speak to on e of the Emplo ce to work, or yee Champio ns.

collaborative spirit, making teamwork an integral part of our success.

We believe that by focusing on these areas, we can create a workplace where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.

The event was a vibrant celebration of our team’s dedication and the bright future ahead. With engaging

activities, team-building exercises, and inspiring presentations, we reaffirmed our commitment to our new MVV and celebrated the introduction of the “Excellence in Action” programme.

Palletforce CEO Mark Tapper said: “Our journey is powered

by the incredible people who make up Palletforce, and together, we are a force to be reckoned with.

“As we embrace our new mission, vision, and values, and champion excellence in action, I am excited about the positive impact we will continue to make, both within our company and in the wider industry.

“Thank you to everyone who made the event a success, and here’s to a future filled with growth, innovation, and collective achievement.”

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MEMBER ENGAGEMENT

The commercial workshop at Elland Road, Leeds

ON THE ROAD TO SUCCESS

Operations Roadshows and Commercial Workshops help provide members with ideas on gaining a business advantage

P

alletforce has been travelling the country holding a series of commercial engagement workshops and showcasing its operations roadshow.

The commercial engagement events were held in Leeds, Nottingham and

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

Watford.

They provided presentations to members on value-based selling, AI innovations and how they might be used to improve members’ customer offering and market conditions.

They also looked at the recruitment of Woodside Distribution to the network

and how this will improve and simplify the import and export process with Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Expert guest speakers at the events including James Walker, Katem Logistics’ Commercial Director, Wilmotts Transport Sales Manager

MEMBER ENGAGEMENT

The operations roadshow

Members met at the City Ground, Nottingham for one of the commercial workshops

The Watford commercial workshop

Daniel Hart and Steve Telford, Logistics Manager U & Ireland, and Sandra Rogers, HR Manager, of Ideal Standard.

The workshops are designed to help members maximise their commercial opportunities and give them information on what Palletforce can do for them to consolidate their business and help them attract new customers.

One member said: “The mixture of content on presentations during the workshop seemed a great balance and gave us some great ideas. It was also really interesting hearing from a customer and a fellow network member.”

The Operations Roadshow has visited Reading, Ideal Standard, Leeds and Glasgow.

On the agenda was a range of topics looking at the current performance of the network and the overall business situation.

Members were also told about the new product and process launches, including the new estimated time of arrival system.

There were also presentations on how members can increase their engagement with the network, best practice and the ethos of Spirit of the Network.

Feedback from members included: “The Operations Roadshow provided valuable insights into network performance and new processes, with practical strategies to boost engagement and align with our ethos.”

The mixture of content on presentations during the workshop seemed a great balance and gave us some great ideas

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MEMBER NEWS

PANEL SHOW

Solar panels, renewable fuels and new, cutting-edge vehicles among green innovations as members embrace sustainability

F

arrall’s Group have announced the installation of a 552kWp solar system at our Deeside office, featuring 1,346 x 410W tier 1 solar panels and 9 x 50kW three-phase inverters.

The cutting-edge system maximises solar energy capture, decreasing their dependence on nonrenewable energy sources, while reducing energy costs.

A Farrall’s spokesman said: “At Farrall’s Group, our core values include a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence.

The new solar system is a key part of our broader strategy to achieve our sustainability goals. We anticipate a substantial reduction in our annual carbon emissions through this project. By integrating renewable energy into our operations, we are taking a proactive stance

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against climate change and setting a new standard in sustainable logistics.

Our sustainability initiatives extend beyond energy consumption. We have ordered a BEV to integrate into our fleet, which will be powered by the solar energy generated at our Deeside office. This forward-thinking move not only demonstrates our dedication to reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also enhances our operational efficiency by utilising clean energy.

As we embrace a sustainable future, the importance of renewable energy in logistics becomes increasingly clear. The solar installation at Farrall’s Group’s head office sets a benchmark for how logistics companies can innovate and

THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

Matthew Farrall

adopt greener practices.

By integrating solar power into our daily operations, we are reducing our carbon footprint, improving energy efficiency, and leading the way in sustainable logistics.”

They have also been trialling the Electric Volvo FM from Thomas Hardie Commercials Ltd and have announced an agreement with Hydrogen Vehicle Systems to explore the integration of hydrogenpowered fuel cell heavy-duty vehicles into the fleet when

the ground-breaking zeroemission vehicles become available for trial next year.

Matthew Farrall, Managing Director, said: “Our partnership with HVS allows us to explore the benefits of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and helps us to deliver a greener running fleet to improve our impact on local communities.”

SOLAR SUCCESSES lddis Transport’s investments to reduce its carbon footprint were recognised with a shortlisting in the Excellence in Sustainability category of the United Kingdom Warehousing Association annual awards.

E

MEMBER NEWS

CAKE FOR BIRTHDAY TEE?

The north-east based haulier has also been working with its customers to reduce their environmental impact.

It has introduced solar panels on all its warehousing at Taylors Business Park, which it owns, and has installed panels on the warehouse and offices of snack wholesaler Epicurium.

Elddis said: “It is great to work with our customers to reduce their environmental impact.

“We not only have solar on this site, but now on all of our warehousing. This is a major investment to reduce our impact on the environment long into the future.

“Further investment in electric fork trucks is further helping our warehouse customers reduce Co2 emissions in their supply chain.”

LINKS IN BIO arry Campey, Commercial & Operations Director of Campeys of Selby Ltd, was one of the guest speakers at the Road Transport Expo.

Harry outlined how Campeys have been making huge leaps forward in their move to sustainable transport methods, switching to bioCNG.

H

A

special edition anniversary truck, a charity golf day and a fantastic cake – just some of the ways Premier Logistics has been celebrating its 20th birthday.

Premier Logistics said: “Acknowledging these milestones helps us reflect on our growth, appreciate

the hard work of our team, and stay motivated for the future. It reinforces the strong bonds within our company and the importance of our collective efforts.”

The golf event, at Lingdale Golf Club, saw suppliers and customers coming together to support the Bodie Hodges Foundation, which supports

families who have lost a child.

Nick Hodges and Ian Stringer played pivotal roles in making the day a success, helping to raise £1,850 for the foundation. Team Menzies Distribution were the winners.

Another highlight was a delicious cake baked by Nana Jacquie.

PULLING PINTS

F

agan & Whalley decked out one of its trailers in Tiny Rebel branding as it made its way to the Great North West Truck Show in Manchester. It was one of 400 spectacular trucks and came away with a third place in the Combination Category!

Then it headed to the heart of South Wales, Newport, for Tiny Rebel’s Rebel Fest 2024 this weekend, with the trailer transforming into a stage, showcasing a fantastic

lineup of local Welsh music performers.

The company also had an unforgettable evening at the Burnley Business Awards 2024.

They drove away with not one, but two awards: Large Business of the Year and Employer of the Year!

The company said: “These awards are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our amazing team, and we couldn’t be

prouder. It was a night to remember.”

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MEMBER NEWS

– with a series of deliveries, including to the iconic Pyramid Stage.

CARNIVAL TIME imarco pulled out all the stops this summer and have been an integral part of another fantastic community event – Maldon Carnival.

Fancy dress, dance troops and a Caledonian Pipe Band filled the streets as part Maldon’s Carnival Week.

Simarco said: “We were

S SERVICE INDUSTRY npoint Group was thrilled to deliver a spectacular event today in collaboration with Barclays Bank, the proud sponsor of Wimbledon. We showcased a massive tennis ball and stand that added a unique flair to the games.

Onpoint said: “A big thank you to everyone involved in making this event a smashing success.”

O

really got behind their sponsorship of the Essar Chester Half Marathon – with six members of staff entering the race.

Matthew Farralls, Managing Director, said: “We are proud to be sponsoring this year’s Essar Chester Half Marathon. Not only do we have six members of #TeamFG running, I had the privilege of starting the race with the air horns on the shiny Scania Group P6 ECF.” The staff members were running for the Countess of Chester Hospital helping to raise money for a new retinol eye scanner.

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PYRAMID SCHEME &D South West helped to set the stage for the summer’s biggest music festival – Glastonbury

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THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

CURRYING FAVOUR SD welcomed a local celebrity to its depot.

The Samosa Wallah is well known in Melton Mowbray and the drivers enjoyed sampling all the food he brought.

M

SHOW AND TELL

W DAF-Y DUCK? arrall’s Group had a special entry in the Chester Duck Race The Duck Truck took its place in the race – and thankfully all went swimmingly.

Meanwhile, the company

proud to transform our trucks into festive carnival floats and be part of another fantastic parade.”

M Armstrong, though its Armstrong Vehicle Centre, has invested £150,000 in a new showroom in Carlisle.

The site will complement the company’s existing workshop just seven miles away in Longtown, and its Scottish base in Glasgow.

Ian Legg, Managing Director of Armstrong

Vehicle Centre, said: “Isuzu Truck UK has provided outstanding support over the two decades we’ve been working together, helping us to build and solidify our reputation in the area. That hard work has culminated in the opening of this new site and the six figure investment we have made represents a huge step forward for the business.”

MEMBER NEWS

OUR NEW VIEWS

PROUD TO HELP Owens Group have shown their support Llanelli Pride by supplying two trailers to act as stages for the festivities

D

obbs Logistics and UK Freight Masters have both updated and modernised their websites.

The new sites are more

tailored to attracting new business and are more userfriendly, in order to make the browsing experience simpler for customers. The websites

- dobbslogistics.co.uk and UKfreight.co.uk – focus on what the businesses can offer existing and potential customers.

TUNNEL OF LOVE

C SAFETY FIRST LH Transport is working with local schools to emphasise road safety.

The Ely firm is backing the ‘Slower is Safer’ campaign, and welcomed children from local school Robert Arkenstall Primary, who have designed the campaign posters.

M

DRIVING OFF M Stafford have said goodbye to two highly regarded colleagues.

Bobby has been with the team for nearly 20 year and has driven routes to partners in Nottingham, Wakefield, Belper and the Palletforce SuperHub. Commercial Director Nicola Stafford said: “He will

B

hambers & Cook have been celebrating 30 years of the Channel Tunnel – and the 50,000-plus journeys they have made through it.

Chambers & Cook said: “Our partnership with Eurotunnel means that service levels for our customers are continually maintained and improved, especially with time bound and express freight.”

Operations Director

Jamie Stephenson recently presented a 30thanniversary gift from Eurotunnel to international driver Sean Gosling, who utilised the efficient crossing to return early for a weekend getaway with his partner.

certainly be a miss. Thanks Bobby.”

Colin, who joined BM Stafford in 2007, has retired.

Owner Mark Stafford said: “He’s carried one or two pallets for us , covered a few miles for us and never let us down. For 17 years, night in, night out he’s hauled all manner of things to and from the hub and I have never had to worry that the trailer wouldn’t be gone on a night and back in the morning. An important cog in the wheel who will be greatly missed.”

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MEMBER EVENTS

Fun in the sun at Chester Races

Look at all the horse power VIP day celebrates members’ faultless service

T

he members of the Palletforce 100% Club were rewarded for their achievements with a glitzy day of VIP hospitality at Chester Races.

Announced every year at the annual Gala Awards, the 100% Club is the pinnacle of excellence for Palletforce members.

To reach those echelons, members must have delivered a 100% performance record of quality service throughout the year, making every

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delivery on time and in full.

Well done to all members of the 100% Club for

THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

demonstrating our Palletforce ethos of quality service.

Members joining the 100% Club were: Edwin C Farrall, BM Stafford + Sons, Evans Transport Ltd, Baynes & Son Haulage, Q Delivery Services, Delamode Nidd Transport, 4S Distribution, Mitchell Storage & Distribution, Knowles Transport, Campeys of Selby, Premier Logistics, Chamberlain Transport and Avon Freight Group.

Meanwhile, members and their customers were Ladies Day at Burton Albion

MEMBER EVENTS

100% Club

Presenting the prizes at Uttoxeter

treated to a sumptuous three-course lunch followed by a delightful afternoon tea at Uttoxeter racecourse, providing the perfect setting for networking and to have some fun.

The day included VIP entry, lunch, afternoon tea, an exciting afternoon of races, the awarding of the best-groomed horse inside the horse enclosure, and a DJ set by Ronan Kemp to wrap up the event. A special congratulations to Charlie’s Glance, his trainer Andrew Martin, and jockey James Martin for winning the Palletforce Handicap Chase 2M, a Palletforce sponsored

race.

The event was a trial as Palletforce aims to add more inclusive and diverse events to our 2025 calendar, ensuring that there is something for everyone in our Palletforce community.

And there was more racing on offer as Burton Albion FC held its popular Ascot Ladies Day event.

Representatives of Avon Freight and Customer 1st joined Palletforce team members to watch all the racing action at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium and enjoy lunch and afternoon tea.

SOCIAL SERVICES

All of the stories on our member news pages first appeared on or were promoted on our social channels. To find out more about how Palletforce can help you utilise social

media to shout about your achievements, sell your services or highlight the good work you are doing in your community, email Shona Callow at marketing@palletforce.com.

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MEMBER NEWS EXTRA

Rising to the occasion

N

igel Cook, Executive Chairman of Elddis Transport completed a 160-mile, two day bike ride to help raise more than £50,00 for Transaid, which helps to transform lives through safe, available and sustainable transport.

Nigel raised more than £1,000 riding from Newcastle to Edinburgh, a route with more than 7,000ft of climbing. It was his third major charity ride of the year, coming after the Beast of Durham and the Great North Bike Ride.

Nigel said: “It was a great group of riders raising money for a great charity.

Thank you to everyone who sponsored me.”

Premier Logistics’ Client Relationship Manager Macauley Christopher took on the Snowdon Challenge in aid of the Men Walk Talk charity, which encourages men to open up and talk.

He and a group of friends did the walk in memory of one of their friends. They have raised nearly £3,000 from the arduous accent of Snowdon.

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Tim jumps at opportunity Hospice skydive in memory of his little brother

T

im Grayson has completed a skydive in aid of the children’s hospice that cared for his little brother .

Tim, of Palletforce’s longtime print and promotions partner Grayson Design & Print, undertook the 14,000ft skydive at Langar Airfield near Nottingham, and has raised over £1,100 for Acorns Children’s Hospice.

He said: “A skydive has been on my bucketlist for a long time and I wanted to raise awareness and money for Acorns.

“My little brother used to go there for respite for my parents and he loved it there and the staff were amazing.

“Before the jump I was excited, during the jump it was amazing complete

THE NETWORKER: AUTUMN 2024

silence up in the sky, the staff were amazing and so welcoming too, made you feel at ease. And after the jump I was on such an adrenaline high it was great.

“I was thinking of Jamie and how proud my mom was of me.”

Acorns provides care, support, fun and laughter for children with life limiting or life threatening conditions and their families. In the past year, it has supported 756 children and 973 families, including those who have been bereaved.

It has hospices in Selly Oak, Walsall and Worcester. It costs around £11 million to provide children’s hospice care to nearly 1,000 families each year.

Tim’s tandem partner on

the skydive was Matyt of Skydive Langar.

“Once we left the plane and floated through the sky and the parachute opened it was so peaceful, then my tandem partner Matyt passed me the straps to do twirls and tumbles up their which was loads of fun and more of a rush for me.

“I would say to anyone thinking of doing charity work that its great fun and for a good cause and your own memories of why you have done it and it makes you feel that you have helped them when they have helped you or your family in these times.

Go to www.justgiving. com/page/timothylangford-1718616861822 to donate to Acorns.

MEMBER EVENTS

REMEMBER THE DATE

Palletforce Members’ General Meeting, February 6, 2025 Don’t miss the ultimate Networking event! Our next Members’ General Meeting will be once again held at the magnificent St George’s Park, Burton upon Trent. Find out about new network innovations, share knowledge and best practice with fellow members – and enjoy the evening entertainment.

BOOK YOUR PLA CE TODAY

Email events@palletforce.com to book.

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Sustainability in action

EUROPEAN SERVICES

EVSCOPE EMISSIONS REPORTS FOR EVERY CONSIGNMENT

• EV Scope tracks emissions associated with all network deliveries • Easily generate reports for individual consignments • EV Scope reporting tool exclusive to Palletforce members @Palletforce www.palletforce.com