Motor Transport 8 May 2017

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Profit improvement plan and tough decisions help operator make it back into profit

Bibby bounces back

By Hayley Pink

NEWS INSIDE Blown away

Birds demise confirmed, but business as usual p3

Listen up

Is government listening to what industry wants? p6

Skills crisis

Trailblazer apprenticeships need focus to succeed p8

Borderline

Report calls for order at ports after Brexit

p10

Bibby Distribution’s turnaround strategy has resulted in the MT Top 100 operator moving back into the black after a recent tough period.

In the year to 31 December 2016, the firm made an operating profit of £2.3m, compared with an operating loss of £4.3m in 2015. This included an exceptional gain of £2.5m relating to a legal settlement regarding a historic contract. Without this, the company would have reported an operating loss of £211,000.

Although turnover fell 12% to £187m in the period (2015: £213m), pre-tax profit was up 67% at £1.6m (2015: £4.9m loss).

Bibby credited the bounce back on a profit improvement plan that looked at four key areas: organisational rightsizing; procurement; commercial review; and transport optimisation.

Chief financial officer Richard Morson said: “The improvement plan has been about reducing the fixed cost base of the business and making it more variable to revenue.”

Some tough decisions were made to achieve this, he told MT, including a reduction in headcount across back office functions, as well as a review of its property portfolio.

“Over the past 12 months there’s been a move from expensive properties, which are a fixed cost, to more costeffective properties in better geographic locations,” said Morson.

This included the opening of the 280,000ft2 G-Park facility in Wakefield last year, its Fusion hub in Bury and a second Max Park warehouse in Corby.

“Having the right facilities in the right place at the right cost means we can competitively win business, which is great,” said Morson.

A commercial review of the company’s historical contracts was also undertaken to ensure they were still profitable with rate increases secured or business exited if in a loss-making position. “It’s about the quality of earnings now,” said Morson.

“These are much better than 18 months ago as some of them were legacy contracts and not challenged.”

The company’s 90 sites are now under one transport management system, enabling Bibby to identify and sell spare capacity on the network.

Microlise telematics have been rolled out across the company’s 2,300 trucks and trailers, while recruiting a team of national driver trainers has seen an improvement in drivers’ performances.

Select committee slams delivery firms over workers’ status Delivery companies such as Hermes that use self-employed drivers need to change their business models, according to a report by the Work and Pensions Committee.

The abridged report into the so-called gig economy calls for self-employed workers to be reclassified as “workers” to ensure their rights to basic employment benefits such as holiday and sick pay.

The report is based on findings from the committee’s inquiry into the gig economy, which was curtailed when the general election was called. It heard from companies including Uber, Amazon, Hermes and Deliveroo, as well as the drivers who work with them.

The report condemned “the apparent freedom companies enjoy to deny workers the rights that come with

employee or worker status”. It called for a change in employment law to give self-employed gig economy workers greater protection. It said: “An assumption of the employment status of “worker” by default, rather than “selfemployed” by default, would protect both those workers and the public purse and would put the onus on companies to provide basic safety net stand-

ards of rights and benefits to their workers.”

The findings dismissed the argument that flexible employment can only be delivered via self-employment as “a fiction”.

“Profit, not flexibility is the motive for using self-employed labour in these cases,” it said.

The report came as the GMB launched legal action against Hermes over the employment status of its workers.

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03/05/2017 11:21:37 27/01/2017 16:17

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Arrow recovers after fire at hub Arrow XL’s Midlands and South West operation is up and running again after a fire gutted its Worcester hub last month (MT 24 April).

Approximately 150 employees were evacuated safely from the fire at the hub, declared a major incident by the police, which started in the early hours of 20 April.

Arrow XL chief executive Ian Howell told MT that the delivery firm resumed service on Friday 28 April from a relief site in Chepstow. “Volumes will ramp up in Chepstow over the course of this week and it is envisaged that the site will be operating at planned capacity by 9 May. “I would like to say a special thanks to a phenomenal team effort by all colleagues, and to our clients and customers for their support and understanding.”

The Worcester site, on the Blackpole Trading Estate, is one of Arrow XL’s four main hubs.

Last month, former DPD executive director Charlie Shiels joined Arrow XL as chief operations officer.

Ballyvesey says it is business as usual as Birds is incorporated into Montgomery

Birds confirmed extinct

By Chris Druce

Montgomery Transport founder Harold Montgomery has confirmed the demise of Birds Transport & Logistics, bringing down the curtain on the well-known Midlands firm.

In a statement sent to MT, Montgomery, who via his family’s Ballyvesey Holdings owns Birds along with a number of interests including trailer manufacturer Montracon, said: “There have been rumours and speculation about what has been happening with Birds Transport & Logistics in Oldbury, Birmingham.

“We wish to clarify the position for our valued customers,

suppliers and the industry.”

Montgomery said the transport and logistics operations and trade had been transferred to Montgomery Transport as of 1 April. They are under the control of Montgomery Transport MD Stephen Marshall.

“No customer of, or supplier to Birds Transport & Logistics will be affected in any way by these structural changes within Ballyvesey Holdings, with business as usual in both areas of the business.

“Ballyvesey would like to thank all our customers, suppliers and staff for their patience and understanding over the recent months and

would hope that this statement clarifies the position and gives comfort to all concerned going forward,” Montgomery said.

Birds Groupage Services, which was the holding company for the now-retired transport company, has been renamed Midlands Warehousing (MT 9 January).

It is now in effect a property company under the direct control of Ballyvesey Holdings director Mark Montgomery.

Ballyvesey Holdings purchased the loss-making Birds business for an undisclosed sum in February 2013 from family owners Andrew and Delvene Levett. However, efforts to turn around the

haulier proved fruitless.

In abbreviated accounts to 30 September 2015, auditor RSM raised concerns over Birds’ future. The accounts showed that, despite parent firm Ballyvesey Holdings’ waiver of a £4m inter-company loan, the haulier made a loss of £22,109 (following larger losses in 2014 and 2015).

Last year, Birds MD Patrice Schneider denied it had ceased operating after rumours began circulating.

In February (MT 20 February), it was revealed that an attempt to merge the Birds Business with the now collapsed Widdowson Logistics had been abandoned.

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03/05/2017 11:25:30

News

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RHA election manifesto acknowledged by Downing Street, spelling out issues government needs to address

Government may be listening

By Emma Shone

The government is beginning to acknowledge the importance of the road transport industry ahead of the general election, according to the RHA. Chief executive Richard Burnett (pictured with Prime Minister Theresa May) told MT that Downing Street had responded to the association’s manifesto for the election, confirming the document had been received and considered.

Burnett said: “I think it is listening and beginning to understand the importance and relevance, the criticality of making sure that we’re being supported.”

The RHA released the

manifesto last week, which focuses on what it considers the industry’s five most press-

ing issues and what it needs from the next government to address and resolve them.

The issues highlighted are: emissions and air quality; road investment and driver facilities; fuel duty; the skills shortage; and Brexit.

“We’re trying to provide clarity as to what challenges we are facing as an industry,” said Burnett. “We’re trying to lay out five clear issues needing focus from the government to understand the relevance and importance of the industry.”

Burnett said he believes the most important issue is keeping UK trade borders “frictionless” as it leaves the EU. Another priority, he added, is the national congestion slowing down the movement of goods, which, in turn, has a

negative effect on emissions and air quality.

Burnett said that while the document had been digested

by Downing Street, the election was frustrating for the RHA, which believes it could hinder progress toward resolving industry issues. “It’s incredibly frustrating from our perspective. It doesn’t matter which government gets in, we’re going to have to rebuild relationships,” he said.

“But, equally, we are still having conversations with civil servants ensuring we haven’t completely dropped the ball and we’re making sure work is still being done behind the scenes.”

IT’S LOGICAL: Culina Group has entered into a joint venture with Northern Irish haulage firm Morgan McLernon. A Culina statement said: “The joint venture is a logical next step. Due to the strong partnership between Morgan McLernon and Culina Group business CML Fulfilment & Logistics, it made sense for Culina Group to bring Morgan McLernon into the family.” CML Fulfilment & Logistics is based at Brockton Business Park, Halesfield, Telford.

Morgan McLernon Telford was granted a standard international licence at the same Brockton location in March to run 20 vehicles and 190 trailers, according to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner. It is also authorised for up to 80 vehicles and 10 trailers at nearby Harcourt Business Park.

Morgan McLernon works with retailers including Marks & Spencer, Tesco, Waitrose, Aldi and Sainsbury’s, and has headquarters in Lurgan, County Armagh.

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04/05/2017 12:35:50

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Nagel warns of Brexit effect Temperature-controlled specialist Nagel Langdons reported a 16% rise in turnover in 2016, but warned that increased consumer price pressures as a result of Brexit could affect the stable growth associated with the sector.

Turnover rose to £116m for the year ending 31 December 2016, up from £99.8m in the previous financial year. Pre-tax profit rose to £5.5m, up from £3.8m.

In October Nagel Langdons took control of its sister company, Nagel Langdons (UK) – which increased sales by £5.8m and profit by approximately £100,000.

MD Arran Osman told MT he was pleased with the progress the company had made. He explained that the integration of Nagel Langdons (UK) into the main trading business in October had created “a seamless connection to our unparalleled network across the major powerhouse economies of Europe and beyond”.

In the operator’s latest financial results filed at Companies House, the directors’ report said the temperature-controlled sector had historically seen steady, stable growth, but there were indications that there are changes occurring in the sector, with “increased price pressures due to Brexit”.

MD positive for 2017 after restructure and management changes reap rewards

Consolidation pays off as Expect profit rises

By Christopher Walton

Expect Distribution, which is shortlisted for three Motor Transport Awards this year, said it is positive about its performance in 2017 after a period of consolidation in 2016.

Bradford-based Expect reported a 2% rise in turnover to £22.1m in the year ending 30 November 2016 (2015: £21.7m) and a 43.2% rise in

pre-tax profit to £785,096 (£548,152).

MD Neil Rushworth told MT: “We spent a long time last year restructuring and there is a very good feel around the business. We now have a structure and a team geared for growth and there is lots of opportunity within the market for Expect.”

The business closed its

loss-making two-man distribution operation in 2015, which accounted for 6% of annual turnover. The most recent financial year also saw changes in senior management, including the appointment of a transport director.

Rushworth added: “We have positioned ourselves to be a solutions-based provider, adding value to our customers,

and we have invested in infrastructure with a 2-acre lorry park and a warehousing extension to cater for growth. The 2016 financials were pleasing and we are positive about this year too.”

Expect also invested in extending its distribution and storage warehousing in preparation for new contracts that will come on stream this year.

“OUR LIGHTEST TRUCK IS ALSO OUR TOUGHEST.” “We get paid by the tonne, so payload is critical to our business. But so is durability – we don’t get paid at all if they’re off the road. We rely entirely on Scania to maintain our vehicles, and the consistency and quality of their staff and dealer responses are the best in the market.”

Chris Cooling, Group Transport Manager Day Aggregates

YOU

SCANIA HAVE THE BEST MTR_080517_006-007.indd 7

03/05/2017 16:40:35

News

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Trailblazer apprenticeships are supposed to address road transport’s chronic skills shortage, but how effective are they and will the new levy help fund them?

Must try harder, must concentrate more...

By Grace Wood

Trailblazer apprenticeships have long been mooted as a remedy for road transport’s skills crisis. However the Commons Select Committee has warned they have a worrying lack of focus and will not fill skills gaps unless they concentrate on sectors and regions where training is most needed.

A committee report said while “the Trailblazer programme had done much to increase employer engagement and refocus it on higher level skills”, an annual survey of performance is required to ensure apprenticeships are of a high quality and to more accurately measure the policy’s success.

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But while the report called for greater coherence, organisation and a universal standard of quality to ensure all schemes were of a high standard, RHA deputy director of policy Colin Snape said it would rather see employers granted influence over how apprenticeships are designed and paid for.

Levy

The apprenticeship levy, which is used to fund Trailblazer apprenticeships, came into force last month. Under the scheme, firms with a payroll of more than £3m are required to contribute the equivalent of 0.5% of this to a pot from which the apprenticeships are then funded.

In the Apprenticeships report, the committee called the levy a “blunt tool in which contributions [the cost of the levy to employers] are unlikely to bear any relation to the skills needs of individual employers”, adding “it is not sufficiently focused on areas of the economy where training is most needed”, and concluded the “implementation has been uneven with repeated delay”.

Further criticism comes from the FTA, which believes the scheme, as it

stands, unfairly disadvantages the devolved nations. Skills policy development manager Sally Gilson (left) told MT there are better ways to encourage firms to run apprenticeships. “Northern Irish, Scottish and Welsh firms all have to pay into the levy, and while apprenticeships are available in the devolved countries, they won’t necessarily get logistics apprenticeships,” she said.

“In England there is an HGV driver option, and a logistics manager apprenticeship is being developed, but we need all options in all countries.”

Content

Road transport-relevant apprenticeships funded under the Trailblazer scheme include: express delivery operative; express delivery manager (which includes a degree); international freight forwarding operative; international supply chain manager; supply chain operatives; and HGV driver (see box).

Each lasts 12 months and has an indi-

vidual assessment at the end. The content of each apprenticeship is to be agreed between the employer and the apprentice provider, but under the rules of the levy, wages cannot be paid for by the scheme and are the responsibility of the employer.

Career advice

Gilson said that while the government had work to do to encourage more young people into the sector, the industry had not done a great deal itself.

03/05/2017 17:38:55

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Apprentice and employer options

“The responsibility is with both schools and the sector. Schools need better career advice and the government needs to ensure there is the knowledge available in schools to give students good career advice,” she said.

The government set a target to see three million apprentices employed through the levy across all sectors, but Neil Carmichael MP, chairman of the Education Committee and co-chairman of the Sub-Committee on Education, Skills and the Economy,

said: “The government has failed to show how its three million target and levy will create jobs that the economy needs.”

Good leadership

SP Training recently began an apprenticeship scheme with Stobart Group (SP chairman Robin Brown, above left, pictured with Stobart Group’s Dale Foster). MD Tony Higgins said vocational training had traditionally been an issue in the UK, but the situation

is improving. “The responsibility lies with the industry and the government,” he said. There had been a “market failure, but the government needed to show good leadership”, he added.

Higgins said: “The apprenticeship levy is a good initiative, but it’s a pity it’s had to come down to a tax on the industry. Logistics apprenticeships are really positive – for the first time, younger and older people can get good logistics training and it’s important that employers take advantage of it.”

The driver apprenticeship is available to applicants regardless of age and includes funding for licence acquisition and a full Driver CPC. The RHA guide to Trailblazer apprenticeships says the course includes “the core skills related to good driving practice”, including the Driver CPC Initial Qualification, and a full 35 hours’ approved training.

For the Trailblazer supply chain apprenticeships there are lower levels of funding available, with the government contribution capped at £2,000. But an addition to the scheme is the inclusion of a forklift licence.

The courier, or express delivery apprenticeship, includes customer service, real-time tracking of goods and communication throughout the delivery chain. It covers dealing with failed deliveries and returns.

Driving licence acquisition is not covered by this apprenticeship but the course includes the use of scheduling software, routeing and health and safety.

One option is to outsource the management of the apprenticeship scheme to an apprenticeship training agency, a list of which is available at gov.uk. While the agency will take a pay-as-you-go management fee, it offers flexibility for an employee as the responsibility for the individual apprentice lies with the agency.

“IT’S THE BACK UP – THE PEOPLE PART – WHERE SCANIA EXCEL.” “Scanias are tough but it’s their people that make the difference. Our local depot is very flexible and work around what we need. Even those dealers further afield always go out of their way for us. It’s all about the back-up.”

Terry Axon, Director Allan Morris

YOU

SCANIA HAVE THE BEST MTR_080517_008-009.indd 9

03/05/2017 17:39:28

News

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Five-point report urges government to be ready to keep order at the border immediately after Brexit

Calls for order at the border

Image: Shutterstock

By Chris Tindall

A five-point plan explaining how to avoid gridlock at Dover after Brexit has been presented to the government, with a plea to keep “order at the border”.

The queue-busting dossier calls for the new Thames Crossing and M20 lorry park to be implemented as soon as possible and for upgrades to the M2 and A2 to be completed on time.

The 50-page report, Ready on Day One, also urges an extension to the Le Touquet Treaty by way of an Entente Cordiale to cover customs co-operation and build deeper bonds with France.

It said that because there was a mindboggling array of ministries, quangos and agencies with border responsibilities, a single ministry should be created to avoid muddle and confusion that would undermine the UK’s ability to be ready from day one.

Dover MP Charlie Elphicke, who developed the plan, said it had the backing of industry leaders, haulage associations, ports and shippers. “Gridlock at Dover will mean gridlock for the UK

economy,” he said. “Yet with proper planning we can not only be ready on day one – we can make Brexit a real success. That’s what this plan is about.”

Elphicke said the roads from the Channel ports across the Thames were hopelessly inadequate and the new Thames Crossing had to be delivered

faster than in a decade. He also called for the M20 to be widened and the M2/ A2 to be made dual carriageway.

The report stated: “Dover and Eurotunnel act as the gateway to the UK for more than 40% of Britain’s trade with the EU. The road network is already finely balanced and overloaded – leaving the EU will add greater pressure, which is why urgent investment must be made over the next two years.”

The FTA said it agreed with the conclusions. Head of policy for London and the South East Natalie Chapman said: “The M2/M25 route is a vital cog in the country’s freight machine and it must continue to work as smoothly as possible as we move towards leaving the EU to ensure that British companies can trade without delays both domestically and internationally.”

Elphicke said it was also essential the country joined the Common Transit Convention, which would enable hauliers to trade without being stopped for customs checks at every member state border.

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Hauliers take on ME and TN postcodes

Abacus and Butlers join TPN South East

By Louise Cole

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Lenham-based Abacus International Shipping and Butlers of Kent have joined The Pallet Network (TPN), covering postcodes in the South East.

Abacus previously used five pallet networks to handle freight from the continent but wanted greater control of handling onward haulage.

Transport manager Craig Smith said: “We’ve had problems with other networks, but never TPN. We like its system and we know it works. We’re excited to be taking over from the previous member, Salvatori [now with Palletways].”

Abacus has bought a double-deck trailer, two 18-tonners and a Luton van to handle the 30 import pallets a night and Smith said it plans to add local customers in the

postcodes ME15 and ME17, and TN23 to TN27.

Maidstone-based Butlers of Kent MD Roy Butler said the company, which specialises in air freight and Hazchem work, was ready to diversify. It will cover the ME7 to ME14 postcodes, including Gillingham, Sittingbourne and Sheerness.

“TPN offered us the right postcode because it is 25 minutes from our depot to the outskirts of the delivery area.

It will help us to optimise our fleet and offer a more comprehensive service for customers that have non-hazchem freight.”

Butler said he expects to expand his 12-vehicle fleet this year and would like to develop links with Europe, perhaps through his forwarding business Consignments Worldwide.

Dempsey lands Clipper role Emma Dempsey has joined Clipper Logistics as chief operating officer (COO) with responsibility for customer operations, projects, IT delivery, quality implementation and operational innovation.

Clipper said the role is designed to ensure that it continues to deliver outstanding services to customers, particularly through continual innovation.

Dempsey previously worked for Accenture, Marks & Spencer and Unipart, and has more than 20 years’ experience working in the supply chain sector. Her previous roles in strategic consulting and retail logistics operations, and her experience in the industry perfectly position her for the new role, Clipper said in a statement.

XPO signs Premier Foods deal “The new KRONE axle and drum brake rolls really well. We are already seeing operational benefits through improved fuel consumption and our drivers say the trailers handle perfectly. Like any national operation, we cover a lot of miles and it’s important therefore to use an axle system which is hard wearing and cheaper to maintain. In this regard, we are delighted to be the first to put the new KRONE Drums to the test!”

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XPO Logistics has clinched a logistics contract with food manufacturer Premier Foods.

The operator will provide inbound transport, warehousing and outbound distribution to Premier Food’s customers in the UK and Ireland. Premier Foods will relocate its multisite warehousing operations to a single XPO-managed national DC in Tamworth, Staffordshire, under a phased transition programme that will

result in the centre being fully operational from mid-2018.

XPO is expected to manage approximately two million pallets a year at the centre, which has the capacity for 80,000 pallets. The 650,000ft2 site will employ an estimated 170 workers and be equipped with XPO’s warehouse management system.

Transport services will be handled with a dedicated fleet of 70 vehicles and 200 trailers.

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PETITION

Guidance due this year likely to focus on reducing pallet weights below 750g limit

HSE weighs up weights

By Carol Millett

Plans to update HSE guidance on pallet weights this year, after continuing concerns regarding the risk to tail-lift delivery drivers, could see pallet weight limits set below the original target of 750kg.

News of the change came as the daughter of a driver crushed to death after a 1,100kg of tiles fell on him during a residential delivery (MT 6 December 2016) prepared a petition calling for a change in the law to ban individual pallets weighing over 750kg (see box).

The new HSE guidance will be based on the findings of an industry working group, which was tasked by HSE last year to look at whether maximum pallet weights should be reduced to 750kg.

However, MT has learnt that the group’s findings could result in individual pallet weight limits falling even further than the suggested 750kg, with guidance being introduced as early as the end of this year.

Acceptable weight

Ray Engley, chairman of the industry group and RHA technical director, said: “HSE is aware of the problem and we are hoping for regulations on limiting pallet weights by the end of the year. We are asking what is an acceptable pallet weight? Is 750kg an adequate weight or should it be less?

Certainly a pallet weight of 1,100kg would not be acceptable.”

As part of the brief the group has been carrying out push and pull testing of pallet weights. Training standards are also being investigated, particularly among agency drivers. Engley said: 14 MotorTransport MTR_080517_014.indd 14

“We are particularly concerned about levels of training for people who do not normally do this type of work.

The big question is, are they adequately trained to do the job they are asked to do.”

Engley ruled out legislation on pallet weights on the grounds that it would take too long to bring forward. “If we have official guidance on pallet weights, anyone failing to observe that guidance will be held to account by the HSE,” he said.

Accurately identified

Asked if new guidance would apply to consignors as well as hauliers, Engley said it could require consignors to correctly identify weights on all pallets.

“We want to ensure all pallets are clearly and accurately marked and that appropriate pallets are used,” he said, adding:

“People don’t appreciate the effort it takes to make a pallet move on pallet trucks. We are asking if a single operator and a hand pallet lifter are adequate – are they sufficient to do the job?”

The sequence in which pallet loads are loaded into trucks for delivery and the locations to which deliveries are made are also being considered by the working group. “Both the loading of the vehicle and the delivery profile of that vehicle need to be considered. It is not an easy job, without having to shift pallets to get to other pallets.

Drivers have to deal with cambers and slopes during deliveries, putting a new aspect on it. It can be difficult to control a heavy pallet in those conditions. We are looking at every aspect of this issue,” Engley explained.

Rise in demand

The rapid growth in demand for pallet deliveries was a key factor in the rise in pallet weights, Engley said. “Pallet networks have been so successful they are now carrying goods such as aggregates and stone slabs that they’d never dreamed of carrying a few years ago.

They’ve been good at creating consolidation centres but now weights on pallets are different and that needs to be addressed.”

Referring to the death of Reason Transport driver Petru Pop, Engley said: “It is a tragedy and unfortunately it is not the first fatality and so it is very important we address all aspects of this issue.” He added that the regulations also need to ensure drivers are empowered to refuse to make a delivery where risks have been identified.

The daughter of a truck driver who was crushed to death while unloading a 1,100kg pallet of tiles is to launch a petition calling for legislation to limit maximum pallet weights to 750kg.

HGV driver Petru Soimu Pop, who was employed by Palletways member Reason Transport, died last November while making a tail-lift delivery to a residential address in High Wycombe. The Health and Safety Executive is investigating the incident (MT 12 December). Iulia Pop (below, with her family) told MT she and her family were devastated by her father’s death.

She decided to launch a petition after learning there are no legal limits to pallet weights in the UK. “The pallet of tiles that killed my father weighed 1,100kg. How can that be allowed? He was making a domestic delivery and had no help and the road was on a slope. How can one person be expected to deal with that weight?”

Pop said her father had joined Reason Transport nine days before his death and she was shocked to learn there are no legal limits on pallet weights. “I couldn’t believe it. I run a pub and we’re subject to many health and safety regulations. How can there be no laws for pallet weights? If there had been a law it could have saved my dad’s life. But now I hope my petition will save other people’s lives and stop other families having to suffer what me, my mother and brother are suffering,” she said.

Pop plans to launch the petition after the purdah period ends when a new government is elected. “I am appealing to all drivers and their families who have similar stories to come forward and share them with me to help get the petition going.”

She added: “I am aiming to campaign until we have enough online signatures to get the right to be debated in parliament.”

8.5.17 03/05/2017 17:50:47

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04/05/2017 09:21:51

Focus: Urban logistics

motortransport.co.uk

Frevue urges electrification of city fleets Freight in the City looks at the latest news and technology from the world of sustainable urban deliveries Frevue

Urban freight operators have been urged to back a campaign to boost manufacturer confidence in electric van and truck demand.

Limited availability and high prices are often cited as a barrier to operators looking to electrify their fleets.

However, many manufacturers do not believe there is sufficient demand for electric freight vehicles, according to the Freight Electric Vehicles in Urban Europe (Frevue) project.

The Frevue team has established a declaration of intent for an electric freight campaign and is urging all operators in urban areas to support it.

The aim is to persuade manufacturers to start or scale up development and production of fully electric or hybrid freight vehicles, and build the case for financial incentives.

So far, 22 declaration of intent forms have been signed in Europe, representing a potential market of 1,115 electric vans and 4,115 electric trucks.

Oxford Street

Freight vehicles could be removed or time-restricted from London’s Oxford Street, as plans for a major revamp take shape.

TfL has opened a consultation into proposals to make the Oxford Street area more pedestrian-friendly and tackle air quality and safety concerns from over-crowding.

At present, Oxford Street is open for freight deliveries at any time, with the majority being made between 10pm and 10am. Some businesses already have arrangements in place to make or take deliveries via nearby side roads or to loading facilities at the rear.

However, if the current status quo is maintained, planners say it would “greatly limit” their ability to transform the area. They would like to hear views on the options to remove freight from the street, and on the introduction of night-time-only deliveries.

TfL said both options would

increase space for pedestrians and the scope for transformation, but it admits that there might be implications for businesses or neighbouring traffic flow.

“We will continue to work with businesses to find new ways of improving the efficiency of deliveries and servicing, while reducing the impact of these journeys on those visiting, living or working in the Oxford Street district,” the consultation document said.

Options for restricting or rerouting buses, taxis and cyclists are also included in the early proposals.

Find out more and share your views at consultations.tfl.gov.uk/roads/ oxford-street.

PROJECT PORTAL: Toyota has started a feasibility study into fuel cell technology usage in HGVs. Dubbed Project Portal, a zero-emission concept vehicle will hit the roads this summer in California. The HGV has the power and torque capacity to transport cargo between the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach while emitting nothing but water vapour.

Bob Carter, executive vice-president of sales for Toyota Motor North America, said: “Toyota believes hydrogen fuel cell technology has tremendous potential to become the powertrain of the future.” The truck generates more than 670hp and 1,796Nm of torque from two Mirai fuel cell stacks and a 12kWh battery. Its gross combined weight capacity is more than 36.2 tonnes and its estimated driving range is 320km per fill.

ICONIC ECONIC: Mercedes-Benz Trucks said its new Econic urban tractor unit will be ready for operator road trials by the end of the month.

The 4×2 Econic 1835L tractor will operate at a maximum gross combination weight of 36 tonnes. It has a 7.7-litre straight-six engine, which transmits its 260 kW (354hp) output via a 6-speed Allison automatic gearbox, with Mercedes PowerShift transmission an option by the end of the year.

The cab incorporates refinements aimed at drivers and crew, including a taller, wider-opening driver’s door and a reprofiled floor to make cross-cab access easier.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks senior municipal sales and special applications manager Philip Chance said: “Our experience over the past couple of years in London and elsewhere has proved that the safety benefits the Econic offers in comparison to a conventional rigid truck chassis give it significant market appeal. It was a logical next step, therefore, to explore the potential for an Econic-based urban tractor.”

RANGE D EFFICIENTLY DELIVERED.

RETHINK WHAT YOU THINK YOU KNOW. CALL: 0870 60 60 660 EMAIL: UKINFO@RENAULT-TRUCKS.COM renault-trucks.co.uk proudprofessionals.co.uk 8.5.17 MTR_080517_017.indd 17

MotorTransport 17 03/05/2017 15:47:53

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03/05/2017 11:47:11

Highwayman

motortransport.co.uk

Those vital roadkill stats are finally revealed

If you have a story for Highwayman, send it to highwaymanMT@ gmail.com

Image: Shutterstock

Someone with clearly too much time on their hands issued the following Freedom of Information request to the DfT. “I would be grateful if you could please provide the following information concerning roadkill on motorways and major roads in England via email under the Freedom of Information Act: Q1: Please provide the number of dead animals found on roads in 2016 and in 2017 to date.

Please break down the figures by animal type.

Q2: Please can you disclose where (by road name) the incident took place?”

God bless our civil servants, because they actually responded to this request. So now we know that one dead wallaby was found on the M1 in that time period, as was one dead goat (A303) and one dead hare (A120).

The most often found items of roadkill are deer (611) followed by badger (534) and fox (471). The road that collected the most roadkill by some considerable margin was the A303, with 425. All in all some 2,231 items of roadkill were found during the requested period.

Thoughts on the industry and Twitter The road transport industry in the UK loves Twitter. I mean everyone reading this bloody loves Twitter. Sometimes Highwayman has to wonder how s*** ever gets moved up and down motorways on the back of a truck because that would mean getting off your bloody iPhones and doing some real work.

Coming off the back of the CV Show, nothing makes Highwayman want to stay away from Birmingham more than another tweet of a stand in the confines of the NEC. Oh yes, sorry, there is one thing.

A picture of a young lady in a tight-fitting dress standing next to the aforementioned

stand at the NEC – each and every one encouraging 50% of the population that a career in logistics is a rewarding one. Not to mention the Birmingham lap-dancing club that hijacked #CVShow should anyone not want to head down Broad Street for one of the finest baltis in the country after a hard day pounding the floors.

Still, it worked because we’re all talking about it! And probably a few of you are reading this and blushing at the thought of what happened in Legs 11, and wondering if the missus will really believe that you ‘missing the expenses claim deadline’ is the reason

you’re now not taking the kids to Alton Towers at half-term.

So if those 140 characters are not being put to best use to promote stuff at the CV Show – what can they be used for?

Well, you can attach a picture, because a picture tells a thousand words. Particularly if it’s the cartoon artist on the RHA stand illustrating the key themes of the day on a ‘feedback wall’ – and misspelling Stobart as Stobbart for the entirety of the industry on Twitter to see.

Or they could be put to their best use, which is sardonic wit. Something of which Highwayman is a big fan – even if it is yet to materialise

in this column. Unfortunately, not a single b****r at the CV Show used #CVShow to tell a joke. It’s almost like they were too scared to say something funny in front of the boss and prospective customers or something. But we could all do with a laugh every now and then, right?

So next year why not do some real-life tweets from the CV Show? Tell the world what you actually think of working in the NEC for three days straight without contact with your family or sunlight. Or just crack a funny.

Who knows, you might find a like-minded fellow who could become a prospective

customer because you bonded with them over a real human interaction.

■ Kudos to the optimistic company that tweeted us to say “Hey, please use our Snapchat filter whilst you’re there. Send us your pics and we’ll RT the best.” Snapchat? Do I look like I’m sitting my GCSEs? ■ Speaking of Twitter, Highwayman could write the column for decades to come and never even get close to the level of wit displayed by @MikeABeevers with this gem: Man from Wakefield on #Brexit: “They voted for a unicorn, but what they are actually going to get is a donkey with a carrot on its head.”

RANGE C EXCEPTIONAL WORK ETHIC.

RETHINK WHAT YOU THINK YOU KNOW. CALL: 0870 60 60 660 EMAIL: UKINFO@RENAULT-TRUCKS.COM renault-trucks.co.uk proudprofessionals.co.uk 8.5.17 MTR_080517_019.indd 19

MotorTransport 19 03/05/2017 18:08:22

Hall of Fame: Mike Williams

motortransport.co.uk

Leaving a legacy The Motor Transport Hall of Fame, in association with Scania, recognises those who have made a significant contribution to road transport, such as Mike Williams, former Dawsongroup group chief executive

D

awsongroup is arguably the most successful contract hire and rental company in the UK. The privatelyowned company prides itself on delivering high levels of service quality across an extensive customer base.

The culture throughout the organisation is one of integrity and honesty, instilled from the top by Mike Williams, its group chief executive from 1993 until he stood down in September 2016 for health reasons.

Williams had been with the company for 40 years, becoming MD of Dawsonrentals in 1979 and rising to the role of group chief executive in 1993.

Group chairman Peter Dawson said upon Williams’ retirement: “After working so closely with Mike for 40 years, it is hard to accept. His energy, commitment and commercial ability have been instrumental to the development of the business we have today. As has his very individual, slightly acerbic sense of humour; used so often to very good effect as he made his points both to suppliers and his own team alike! However, he would be the first to acknowledge the huge part played by the input and support of that team, a number of whom have been with him for many of those 40 years.”

All good things...

Williams had been planning his eventual retirement “towards the end of 2017”, adding it was “with real regret and a sense of unfinished business that I must now complete my time with Peter and the team. It’s been good – very good at times – but as the saying goes, all good things come to an end”.

20 MotorTransport MTR_080517_020.indd 20

Steve Miller worked alongside Williams for 30 years and succeeded him in the chief executive role. He said: “You don’t spend 30 years working with Peter Dawson, Mike Williams and the others without learning an awful lot.

This is a strong and successful business and there are things we do outstandingly well.”

Strategic opportunity

In 2015, when Dawsongroup celebrated 80 years in business, it made a pre-tax profit of £31m on a turnover of £197m, invested a record £183m and owned almost 21,500 assets.

While 9,500 trucks and trailers made these the biggest sector in the portfolio, the vans division has expanded rapidly and in 2015 ran approximately 5,000 vehicles. Williams says: “We saw this as a strategic opportunity. Big players had been reviewing their strategy and the timing became right for us. We saw good people coming onto the market and, with uncertainty among some competitors, we could get vans at good prices. Good people and wellbought assets gave us the perfect means of dovetailing the operation into our network and facilities.”

Williams has always been upfront about his reasons for preferring not to buy vehicles from manufacturers with their own rental divisions.

“Companies do things for different reasons, some right, some wrong. To me, manufacturers operating rental is not a good thing: why on earth would we buy from somebody who is going to compete with us?”

Stars of the future

Williams has always believed people not assets make the difference between a good operation and a great one, and under his guidance Dawsongroup launched an in-house management training programme. The vision was of a future where the long-service records of Williams and Miller would be replicated by a crop of bright young managers coming through the ranks. The benefits of a successful ‘grow your own’ approach are undeniable in honing and perpetuating the Dawsongroup ‘difference’.

Williams has always been modest about his role, preferring to let Dawsongroup’s success speak for itself. “The ethos is not to be out front shouting about our wares, but to be seen regularly doing the right things,” he says. “At the right prices and the right quality.”

On being inducted into the Hall of Fame, he said it was all about “taking care of customers, being fair to suppliers and setting the pace for our team – fortunately they all know what’s needed and are very capable of delivering”. ■ 8.5.17 03/05/2017 17:42:58

Viewpoint

motortransport.co.uk

The newspaper for transport operators

Tel: 020 8912 +4 digits or email name.surname@roadtransport.com Editor Steve Hobson 2161 Group managing editor Christopher Walton 2163 Group news editor Chris Druce 2158 Group technical editor Colin Barnett 2141 Aftermarket editor Roger Brown 2168 Vans editor George Barrow 2156 Urban editor Hayley Pink 2165 Ashleigh Wight 2167 Editorial Emma Shone 2164 Group production editor Clare Goldie 2174 Chief sub-editor Rufus Thompson 2143 Layout sub-editor Grace Wood 2174 Key account managers Andrew Smith 07771 885874 Richard Bennett 07889 823060 Display telesales Barnaby Goodman-Smith 2128 Group sales manager Julie McInally 2122 rtmclassified@roadtransport.com Sales director Vic Bunby 2121 Head of marketing Jane Casling 2133 Head of events/MT Awards Kelly Farley 2135

Head of product

Andrew Chilvers 2138

Managing director

Andy Salter 2171

Editorial office Road Transport Media, Sixth Floor, Chancery House, St Nicholas Way, Sutton, Surrey SM1 1JB 020 8912 2170 Free copies MT is available free to specified licensed operators under the publisher’s terms of control. To apply visit: mtcc.motortransport.co.uk or email roadtransport.pub@quadrantsubs.com Existing readers can update their address and renew their free copy at mtcc.motortransport.co.uk Subscriptions Tel 0330 333 9544 Quadrant Subscription Services, Rockwood House, Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 3DH Rates UK £125/year. Europe £160 (€235)/year.

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Anyone fancy a double-decker?

P ushing my way through the crowds at the CV Show last month, the focus on environmental issues was clear. Electric vans and gas and hybrid trucks were all in evidence – but let’s be honest they aren’t going to be sold in any volumes any time soon. Out of the 100,000 vans under 3.5 tonnes registered in the UK in the first quarter of this year only 335 were electric or hybrids, according to our friends at the SMMT. So while petrol and electric will probably be the power of choice for urban vehicles in the future, they aren’t going to stop global warming any time soon. But there were vehicles at the show that are making significant and immediate cuts in CO2 emissions per pallet – 52 pallet double-deck trailers. These 4.9m high, 13.6m long ‘mega’

trailers are now relatively common and allow operators to carry twice as many pallets as traditional 4m-high single-deckers.

Obviously double-deckers are not suitable for every operation and will never entirely replace the single-decker, but for trunking operations they can make huge savings on cost and carbon emissions per pallet. The problem can be payload – while Transdek’s latest model can carry 25 tonnes, some of these beasts can take only 18 tonnes, which works out at 346kg per pallet.

So come on Df T, isn’t it time for another look at the 44-tonne maximum GVW limit? Taking the GVW to say 50 tonne would dramatically increase the applications these highly efficient trailers could be used for.

Time to take wheel of driverless technology T Tristan Watkins CEO, BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions UK

he UK stands to gain substantially from investment in driverless technology, but the government has not done enough to prepare the industry for it or address the potential challenges. We need more research into all opportunities in the autonomous vehicles sector, as well as how driverless technology will affect the HGV and courier industries.

Its success will depend on how readily society and industry adapts to it – and will pay for it.

Driverless vehicles are inevitable, but the technology will need to be perfect, widely accepted and affordable. In the US, fully autonomous vehicles are illegal, but semi-autonomous vehicles, where responsibility still lies with a human driver, might actually be more dangerous.

A human back-up might be appealing to regulators, but there is a risk drivers won’t transfer their attention back quickly enough in an emergency. If drivers are otherwise occupied, their response time might be too late to avert an accident. Research shows that drivers of semi-

autonomous vehicles take up to six times longer than drivers of manual vehicles to brake in an emergency. The solution is to push for fully automated vehicles.

For fully automated vehicles to become a reality, we also need more detailed regulation to control the acquisition and use of data. New EU data protection rules in the General Data Protection Regulation aim to protect personal data for individuals in the EU. But there needs to be greater clarity around what constitutes personal data and, while fleets have the greatest business need for control of that data, it’s important that its collection and use is transparent and secure.

Driverless technology presents a promising but uncertain future – it’s time for government to take the wheel.

Got something to say?

If you would like to contribute to MT’s Viewpoint, email steve.hobson@roadtransport.com

RANGE K YOUR TRADE MARK.

RETHINK WHAT YOU THINK YOU KNOW. CALL: 0870 60 60 660 EMAIL: UKINFO@RENAULT-TRUCKS.COM renault-trucks.co.uk proudprofessionals.co.uk 8.5.17 MTR_080517_021.indd 21

MotorTransport 21 04/05/2017 10:44:36

Interview: David Ashwell

motortransport.co.uk

W

hen it was created in 2009, AO stood for “appliances online”, but if it stands for anything now it would probably be “anything online”, as the range offered by the fast-expanding e-tailer has expanded from white goods into electronic equipment such as TVs. It holds 5,300 stock-keeping units (SKUs) at its 360,000ft2 and 380,000ft2 NDCs in Crewe, more than any other online retailer, says David Ashwell, MD of AO Logistics. “We offer next-day delivery on every line ordered up to midnight the day before,” he says. “As well as delivering for AO we are a high-quality 3PL two-man home delivery company and we specialise in white goods and large brown goods. So we like stuff that’s big, ugly and heavy.”

The effect AO has had on the national psyche was illustrated by the fact that BBC Radio 4’s flagship morning news programme Today was presented from one of AO’s DCs on the day of the budget in March, with Ashwell’s opinion being sought on what AO’s increasing sales said about the state of the UK economy.

Ashwell gives a potted history of AO Logistics, which grew out of home delivery 3PL Expert Logistics. “Historically, Expert was owned by Iceland,” he explains. “I got here in 2006 and it was a bit of a basket case. The objective was to get it turned around or get it sold, and we did both. We turned it around, sold to a company called DRL Holdings in 2009 and were transformed into AO in 2014.”

AO Logistics still operates as a 3PL and while most of its volume is for AO.com, other clients include Argos, Electrolux and Hoover Candy.

Central stock

AO’s lean, mean and green approach to home delivery means all stock is held centrally and trunked overnight to 12 outbases for onward delivery. “A lot of other logistics businesses operate with more of a stocked element in regional areas, whereas we do everything from Crewe,” Ashwell says. “We built it this way so we can offer next-day delivery up until midnight. Our entire infrastructure was set up to do that and the most important things for us are time and efficiency.”

AO Logistics shifts 70,000 items in a busy week, all for next-day delivery anywhere in the UK. Orders placed up to midnight are picked 15 minutes later and everything is loaded on to a trailer by 1am. “Our trunks are on average 4.5hrs, which fits in with drivers’ hours rules,” says Ashwell.

“We can get to Exeter by 5.30am, where the night team loads the first vehicle, which will be going to Truro. By 6am it’s on the road and within 90 minutes it’s in Truro. That’s how we do it, and we do it seven days a week, 361 days a year.”

AO has two outbases in Scotland, in Larkhall on the M74, 14 miles south-east of Glasgow, and in Dundee. Product is dropped at Larkhall, which is within a 4.5hr drive of Crewe, and semi-trunked to Dundee. Its other outbases are in Spennymoor, Garforth, Heywood, Yaxley, Avonmouth, Exeter, Slough, Croydon, Basildon and Potters Bar. Product is held in 13.5m-high racking in the DCs and handled by lift trucks. AO is the only appliance retailer to use squeeze pads to gently but firmly grip the outer packaging of each appliance rather than palletise them and use forklifts. “We don’t use pallets because we don’t want to carry fresh air in the trailers,” says Ashwell. “The two-man delivery crews use sack barrows to move the appliances into customers’ homes.”

AO stopped doing same-day delivery 12 months ago, mainly because few customers wanted it. “Same-day deliveries were always an evening delivery,” says Ashwell. “But we found not many consumers wanted it. Consumers want the one thing this industry has never offered – to do what you say you’re going to do, and do it nicely.”

He points to AO’s online customer reviews, which average a rating of 4.8 out of five. “This means the majority of people are putting a five-star score down for us,” Ashwell says. “That’s because we do exactly what we say we’re going to do. If we say we’re coming to your house tomorrow, we’re coming. And if we say we’re going to send you a message, 22 MotorTransport MTR_080517_022-023.indd 22

Lean, mean a Goods ordered online will be delivered the next day, by helpful, polite drivers; that’s what AO Logistics MD David Ashwell promises Steve Hobson we’ll send you one. And if we say we’re going to hit that 4hr time window, we’re going to hit it. And if we say the driver will ring you with a close ETA, he’ll ring you.”

But a successful five-star delivery involves more than just being there on time. “The driver will come in, do the installation and be off without the customer ever noticing we were there, taking all the rubbish away. Customers say it’s amazing. What’s amazing about it? We did exactly what we said we were going to do,” says Ashwell. “I come from food retail and my job was to turn Expert around and make it customer-focused. Everything we do is to drive efficiency and speed and to ensure we’ve got happy people. When drivers arrive at a customer’s house, they do what they’re supposed to do to give the customer a good experience.”

Let’s talk

Ashwell believes the key to successful delivery is to encourage customers to talk directly to the drivers. When ordering via AO.com, customers have to enter at least one contact number to complete the order so a driver can always get in touch with them. “We inform customers who the driver is so when he rings they have his number,” he says. “When he rings he creates a relationship with the customer and has a dialogue about the delivery.

“When I buy from other sources, I’m regularly told I can’t ring the driver. I have to email somebody and lose the will to live. I’ve had so many bad delivery experiences from blue-chip companies.”

AO endeavours to be a cool place to work, with table tennis tables, a subsidised hair salon and free ice cream in the summer, all designed to build team spirit and a positive attitude. This is surprising as none of its drivers are employed 8.5.17 03/05/2017 16:36:25

motortransport.co.uk

HIGH CUBE = HIGH EFFICIENCY

n and green by the company. “All of our drivers are self-employed,” says Ashwell. “They provide themselves and a mate. The benefit of that is they’re at risk and reward. Amazing drivers can earn a fortune working for us because if they’re complimented, they get a bonus. But if they’re not so good, we deduct money and they won’t want to stay for long.

Sole traders

“The amazing drivers drive for us when they feel like it, don’t drive when they don’t. They can work four days a week, one day a week, take six weeks’ holiday if they want.

Our model is designed around getting them to buy into us as a brand, but also to understand that they are independent people who are controlling their destiny.”

Drivers can employ other people to expand their business.

“We have what we call sole traders, and if they’re good, they can become a multi-crew. They can then take two, three, four, 10 or 15 crews on and we pay for all of them. The multi-crew leader controls those crews but it operates under our O-licence with our vehicles.” ■

AO recently replaced its fleet of trailers with 100 new units from Tiger Trailers, the manufacturer set up in Winsford by brothers Steven and John Cartwright in 2014.

The units are double-deck curtainsiders that can carry 18% more than the conventional step-frame trailers they replaced – which were a significant improvement on the previous drawbar rigs. This was achieved using a lower 950mm fifth wheel height on the 2-axle Daf tractor units supplied by Ryder, lowering the trailers 300mm and building a simple-touse full-length hydraulic moving deck and roof system. “So we can grow by 18% without having to put a trailer on,” says Ashwell. “From that point of view, they pay for themselves.”

As well as extra capacity, the design brief was to have a 1.8m standard tall fridge on each deck, which could not be achieved with the previous trailers. “We talked to Tiger about improving our design,” says Ashwell. “It already had a moving floor but there was a swan neck and an aero roof that are believed to save money – but don’t – so were losing space at the front.

“The objective was to maximise the amount of stock we can get in those vehicles. We worked together on the design of the product and came up with our mega trailer. It is the standard 4.9m-high but the beauty of the raising roof is that it enables us to load the tall fridges top and bottom and then lower it down for driving.”

The Tiger trailers use four Siamese hydraulic rams at each corner of the full-length lifting deck rather than a wire and pulley system. “We’re pushing the boundaries of that technology and they’ve been really reliable,” says Ashwell. “We’re learning the lessons of how to operate these things properly, and Tiger is improving them bit by bit so we are developing a great product.”

One example of this is that the curtains are over-length and fold when the buckles are done up. When released, the extra length allows the roof to be lifted for loading through the rear doors while keeping the decks weathertight. And one lesson learned was that the trailers must be level before raising or lowering the deck.

“You have to comply with certain rules and as long as you do that, it works,” says Ashwell. “We’re very good at ensuring our people buy into things. We get people to understand what we’re trying to do and allow them to do a great job by getting on with it. The night shift guys bought into it completely.” This was probably because the Tiger trailer’s full-length moving deck is quicker to load. “We haven’t got that swan neck that was effectively a third floor halfway along,” says Ashwell, “so from a speed point of view, that helped us as well.”

The trailers are all 13.6m long, and Ashwell says there would be little benefit in running 14.6m or 15.65m longer semi-trailers. “The final delivery load will be carried in one 7.5-tonne or two 3.5-tonne vehicles,” says Ashwell. “These trailers can get six or sometimes seven loads on them, whereas the previous ones could get five. We want to haul them off and straight on to another vehicle. Getting a few extra products on a longer trailer is not conducive to efficient unloading. It might help us but we’ll cross that bridge later.”

The extra capacity of the trailers has also paid dividends in back-hauling product into Crewe from appliance manufacturers and importers. “We do back-haul for all the major white goods manufacturers and they pay us to bring our stock in,” says Ashwell. “They would have had to pay someone else to do it anyway, so everybody wins.”

RANGE T FUEL ECONOMY TO A T.

RETHINK WHAT YOU THINK YOU KNOW. CALL: 0870 60 60 660 EMAIL: UKINFO@RENAULT-TRUCKS.COM renault-trucks.co.uk proudprofessionals.co.uk 8.5.17 MTR_080517_022-023.indd 23

MotorTransport 23 03/05/2017 16:37:18

CV Show review

motortransport.co.uk

Daf's revitalised XF and CF and the debut of MAN’s TGE may have been CV Show headliners, but it was clear the spectre of emissions legislation has encouraged an explosion in alternatives to traditional diesel power

Latest generation Dafs set new fuel economy standards

By Steve Hobson

The new generation Daf CF and XF tractor units unveiled at the CV Show promise operators 7% better fuel economy on long-haul operations and weight savings of up to 130kg on the current line-up of the long-running cabs.

Drivers also get completely new interiors that are said to provide the highest driver comfort on the market, while engine service intervals have been extended to 200,000km.

At the heart of the latest trucks are new integrated drivetrains, with improved MX11 and MX13 engines, a new Traxon gearbox and upgraded drive axles that combine to produce a 3% fuel saving.

The MX11 is available in power and torque rating from 200hp and 1,350Nm to 449hp and 2,300Nm, while the MX13 goes from 428hp and 2,300Nm to a new top rating of 530hp and 2,600Nm. Both units continue to use a combination of SCR and EGR, but the exhaust after-treatment box has been made 40% smaller and 50kg lighter. As a result, it heats up to its optimum operating temperature more quickly, contributing another 0.1% improvement in fuel economy.

DAF WITH TRAXON CONTROL The new generation trucks see the first outing on a Daf for the ZF Traxon gearboxes, said to offer reduced frictional losses and faster gear-changing. The Traxon also improves driver comfort because it is quieter and smoother in operation. It is available with 12 speeds as standard and 16 speeds as an option.

New low-friction rear axles now include a taller 2.05:1 drive ratio that helps reduce engine speed when cruising in top gear.

Together these improvements contribute 1.7% better mpg.

A key feature is the ‘down-speeding’ of the engine, helped by the use of multi-torque settings that allow the engine to produce more torque at lower rpm in higher gears.

As a result, the engines turn over at just 1,000rpm at 85km/h, 100rpm lower than before.

A new turbo for the MX13 and a host of improvements to ancillary components contribute to the claimed fuel saving, while a 20% to 30% more powerful engine brake will extend brake lining life.

Improved aerodynamics on the cab exterior save a further 0.5% on fuel, with a redesigned sun visor and better airflow around and under the cab. An improved heating and ventilating

(HVAC) system that uses residual heat in the cooling system to warm the cab and avoid idling on cold days chips in the final 0.2% fuel saving.

Weight savings have been achieved throughout the truck, and come to 100kg on the 4x2 and 130kg on the 6x2 tractor with a new, lighter pusher axle.

The new interiors feature a revised instrument panel that now includes a tachograph countdown to warn drivers when it is time to take a break. The XF Super Space cab is still one of the most spacious cabs on the market with a total volume of 12.6m3.

“The new range is still offers the best in driver comfort,” said Preston Feight, president of Daf Truck. “We have made the best trucks on the market even better.”

The new XF and CF cabs will enter production this summer, starting with 4x2 tractor and rigid models, followed by the 6x2 variants.

UK preview of MAN’s TGE range ahead of September launch MAN gave its TGE range of LCVs a UK debut ahead of a full launch in September.

The van’s pricing will begin at £23,990 for the 3-tonner and £26,490 for the 3.5-tonner.

Weights range between 3 tonnes and 5.5 tonnes, and load volumes from 9.3m3 to 18.4m3, with front-, rear- and all-wheel drive versions. All are powered by 2-litre turbo-diesels with outputs from 101hp to 175hp, and 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmissions.

A key selling point is MAN’s aftersales package, intended to make heavy truck standards available to van operators. These include 17 sales centres and 65 service points, with the 24 MotorTransport MTR_080517_024-027.indd 24

same 24-hour MAN roadside assistance services as HGVs. Among the larger products that were on display, the star attraction was the UK debut of the TGX Performance Line, with its 640hp D38 15.2-litre engine, now available for general haulage.

For operators, a range of smaller D08 4- and 6-cylinder engines for the TGL and TGM ranges will be available this autumn. With outputs ranging from 160hp to 320hp, the engines feature SCR-only emissions control and produce more torque than the current equivalents while weighing 45kg less.

8.5.17 04/05/2017 08:34:05

CV Show 2017

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ALTERNATIVE ROUTE: LDV is positioning itself as a leading supplier of alternative fuel vehicles with the arrival of new electric, hybrid and hydrogen vehicles. The manufacturer launched an electric version of the LDV V80 at the show, which is already available to order in the UK. But Mark Barrett, LDV general manager at UK importer Harris Group, said a hydrogen V80 already exists and his company has looked at bringing it to the UK. “A hydrogen fuel-cell V80 is available but there is no infrastructure in the UK at the moment. In 18 months’ time the hydrogen infrastructure will be there, and we could look to bring it over,” Barrett said.

Transdek shows fixed-deck trailer with 24% more space Transdek UK showed two high-capacity fixeddeck trailers at the show, one of which can carry 52 pallets with a 25.4 tonne payload – a 24% increase on the typical carrying capacity. This has been achieved by using a lower fifth wheel on the tractor unit – 1,050mm instead of 1,250mm – to get 20% more capacity at the front of the wedge trailer.

In most conventional double-deckers the front of the trailer is underloaded while the rear axles are overloaded, which limits the payload to 18.1 tonne.

Transdek UK MD Mark Adams said: “Our fixed-deck double-deck trailer can carry twice the load of a single-decker. We shape the trailer

to get the full capacity with 20% more load over the fifth wheel.”

The ambient trailer also gives a full 1,863mm load height along the full length of both decks.

The other trailer has been developed for Boots’ large store delivery operations (pictured), and features a sliding rear door and fully enclosed silent tail-lift to unload the lower and fixed upper decks. Adams said that, at 4.1m high, the low-height insulated XL trailer can carry 38 pallets or 72 roll cages and go anywhere a single-decker can, including underground delivery areas.

The horizontally-split rear doors slide vertically to avoid opening doors out on to the road.

Tiger Trailers to build new £22m factory Tiger Trailers is to build a £22m factory at a new site in Winsford, Cheshire, four times the size of its nearby current facility.

The building will sit on a 20-acre plot of land and include multiple production lines, a dedicated trailer showroom, weighbridge, customer meeting facilities and parking for 350 cars as well as trailer parking.

It will house a fully equipped training school to help develop apprentices, and double Tiger’s painting capacity.

The firm has manufactured 2,500 trailers since it was founded three years ago. It employs more than 200 staff and can manufacture about 35 products a week in its existing factory.

Expansion at the site will take place in two phases – an initial £14m investment will see the firm break ground in early 2018, with production transferring to the 125,000ft² factory later in the year.

Phase two, which will be timed to meet business demand, will add another 100,000ft² of manufacturing capacity.

Terberg unveils the Urban Safety Logistics vehicle Terberg teamed up with sister company Dennis Eagle and other suppliers to create its Urban Safety Logistics vehicle.

Terberg DTS UK MD Alistair Couper said the brief was to go beyond the current trend for low-entry, high-visibility trucks and create a complete package to make urban deliveries safely and efficiently.

The truck is a Dennis Eagle Elite 4x2 rigid, with a 45m3 Gray & Adams refrigerated body with 7,750mm of internal length. The walkthrough cab features seating for a driver and two passengers, with storage for extra kit.

Nearside access is through a bus-style glass panelled folding door. This feature, enabling the driver to avoid emerging into the traffic flow, is carried through to the load area, where a traditional Dhollandia tail-lift is complemented by a second 500kg side-loading lift, forming the load floor at the rear nearside corner.

The truck features the latest Mobileye Shield + collision avoidance system.

Further tyre price increases ahead Tyre prices could rise further this year as the cost of raw material, especially natural rubber, remains high, Goodyear Dunlop UK commercial director Marc Preedy has warned.

Commodity prices spiked by approximately 25% in January, and while they have since eased, higher costs have yet to filter through the supply chain.

8.5.17 MTR_080517_024-027.indd 25

“The pain is easing a little now, but we buy six months in advance so this year will remain challenging for all tyre manufacturers,” said Preedy.

“We have seen some imported budget tyres increase in price by 25%, so we are at last seeing some sensible behaviour at the lower end of the market.”

MotorTransport 25 03/05/2017 17:33:09

CV Show review Putting the V into the Commercial Vehicle Show were a staggering amount of new van products, with some focusing on electric and alternative fuels. George Barrow reports from the NEC

Vantastic developments Citroën

Converted versions of the Citroën van range have increased more than sixfold since Jeremy Smith took over as head of commercial vehicles and business sector operations at Citroën UK. The market for a ‘Ready to Run’ range of readybodied conversions has grown from 120 units in 2014 to 750 at present, according to Smith.

A new car transporter conversion built by Advanced KFS and based on the Relay chassis was launched at the show. Constructed largely from aluminium and heavy-duty ramps, the Relay car transporter has eight tie-down points, a tool locker, a pair of work lamps and a set of securing straps. Customers can buy a recessed winch, and specify the vehicle with emergency beacons and marker lights. Prices start from £31,995 for a Relay 35 BlueHDi 130 6-speed manual, which comes with a three-year/100,000 mile warranty.

Volkswagen

Alongside the UK show debut of the Volkswagen Crafter, Volkswagen also premiered a small electric commercial vehicle, the Volkswagen E-load up!, pictured below. Although there are no immediate plans to sell the E-load up! in the UK, company executives believe it is a chance to gauge interest among customers.

Volkswagen hopes conversations from the show will reveal if there is an appetite for other electrified LCV models, as well as alternative fuel powertrains.

Volkswagen commercial vehicles director Carl zu Dohna said the technology exists within the Volkswagen Group for a number of alternative fuelled vehicle options, but that the decision to exhibit the E-load up! was to determine if there was an appetite amongst UK customers for either a small urban commercial vehicle or similar technology.

Mitsubishi

Following the launch of a new limited edition version of its L200 pick-up truck, Mitsubishi says it is considering more ‘one-off’ inspired versions of its popular truck.

The Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian SVP (Special Vehicle Projects), pictured above, was inspired by its one-off L200 Desert Warrier ‘Pre-runner’, a rugged-looking concept vehicle, also on display at the show.

The L200 Barbarian SVP will be limited to just 250 units, and gets flared wheel arches with 17in bespoke black alloy wheels and BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres, an all-new grille, new headlights, fog lamp surrounds, roof rails and rear bumper.

There are also shark fin-inspired side steps, load bed illumination, puddle lamps and a soft-opening tailgate. On the inside are new ‘six-pack’ leather seats with suede-like ‘Alston’ inserts, while each vehicle gets an individual limited edition number and the SVP logo stitched into the headrests.

The additional equipment does, however, come at a cost. The SVP is priced at £28,479, nearly £4,000 more than a Barbarian.

at the CV Show, with the aim of increasing sales volumes and making purchasing easier for customers.

The new Hilux will be available as a tipper and a dropside, pictured bottom, with the Proace van getting a refrigerated unit and new racking options, pictured below. TGS will convert the Hilux chassis, while CoolKit provides the fridge conversions and Bri-Stor the racking solutions.

All conversions will be supported by a five year warranty.

The new models also herald the introduction of a new authorised converter programme.

Currently, five converters have gone through a rigorous verification process to become authorised Toyota body builders. Chassis adapted by authorised converters will be backed by the standard Toyota five year warranty, while bodywork will be supported separately by the manufacturer.

SsangYong

Sales of SsangYong’s pick-up truck have doubled since revamping the model and introducing a new name. The SsangYong Musso was launched in October 2016, bringing with it a new engine, improved interior, subtle styling changes and a new name – it replaced the SsangYong Korando Sports, a model often confused with the SsangYong Korando passenger car.

Steve Gray, SsangYong UK marketing director, said: “The Musso has been a real phenomenon. We’ve doubled sales, and we have huge confidence. Despite all the changes, the biggest difference has been the introduction of red as a colour. Red trucks with black wheels and LED headlights have proved incredibly popular.”

Gray also confirmed that a new large pick-up, similar in size to that of the Toyota Hilux, will join the range.

Toyota

Toyota has launched a range of new bodied vehicles as part of its growing ambitions in the LCV sector. New conversations based on the Toyota Hilux and Toyota Proace were launched 26 MotorTransport MTR_080517_024-027.indd 26

8.5.17 04/05/2017 08:35:11

motortransport.co.uk

Your driver is being blamed.

He says he didn’t do it.

DFSK returns to UK with new range DFSK has returned to the UK with a new range of vans. The Chinese brand, best known for its small Loadhopper vans, which bear a striking resemblance to BMWs with their kidneyshaped grille, will be brought to the UK by Vehicle Import & Distribution. The firm, a subsidiary of Bassadone Automotive, is owner of the UK importer and distributor of SsangYong 4x4 cars and LCVs. The DFSK vans will arrive in the UK this summer with four models: the C31 single-cab minitruck; C32 double-cab minitruck; a 2.2-tonne GVW C35 panel van; and the C37 minivan.

Steve Gray, marketing and communications director at SsangYong Motor GB, said: “People are downsizing across the LCV sector and you wouldn’t expect to see small vans with petrol engines like these in the industry.”

The vans are powered by a 1.5-litre Euro-6B petrol engine.

Gray said that with the increasing demonisation of diesel, a small petrol alternative had the potential to appeal to councils looking to clean up their fleets.

Despite the ties to SsangYong, Gray said its dealers will not be forced into taking the DFSK brand, but he could foresee a number of SsangYong dealers with a base for CV customers adopting the Chinese manufacturer’s products.

You can see he didn’t do it.

False insurance claims by 3rd parties cost companies millions of pounds each year and put drivers under increased scrutiny.

Without solid evidence, it is often easier to settle.

Brigade’s new range of mobile recorders include WiFi and/or 3G wireless connectivity.

Brigade’s mobile recorder captures footage from up to 8 vehicle mounted cameras, plus vital GPS data such as time, date, location and speed. Wirelessly uploading to a secure server can save time, as data can be instantly obtained without the need to access vehicles. Perfect for refuting false claims and providing evidence in the event of an accident.

VB offers smoother ride ™ Airsuspension has launched VB-ActiveAir, an innovative adaptive suspension system designed to give the smoothest possible ride. VB-Active Air combines VB-FullAir 4C air suspension with the adaptive VB-DynActive shock absorbers to provide a controlled ride that automatically adapts to load and road conditions.

The system provides variable damping on both compression and rebound, with up to 10 times more damping force than standard suspension. It uses seven sensors to detect body movement and road conditions, and the suspension reacts in six milliseconds. As a result, the VB-ActiveAir combines a smooth ride with responsive handling, avoiding the usual compromises between comfort and safety.

The system has been developed for Morello luxury motorhomes, but versions are being developed for the MercedesBenz Sprinter and Fiat Ducato.

8.5.17 MTR_080517_024-027.indd 27

Protecting your driver.

Providing your witness. brigade-electronics.com Call on 01322 420300 or visit your stockist MotorTransport 27 04/05/2017 08:36:08

MT Awards 2017 shortlists

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Haulier of the Year Sponsored by

MT profiles the shortlists for this year’s awards

Abbey Logistics

Abbey Logistics is already in an exclusive club of four operators that have won Haulier of the Year twice, having picked up the accolade in 2010 and 2014. And if it repeats its success this year, it will become the first to make it a hat-trick.

Abbey, led by CEO Steve Granite, has had an impressive seven years since that first win under its original name Abbey Road Tanks, with turnover almost quadrupling to an expected £70m in 2017, diversification from its original liquid tankers niche into warehousing, powders and pallet haulage and a management buyout last year from the founding Lucy family.

Last year also saw Abbey secure its biggest single contract when it took over the British Sugar contract from Suttons Road Tankers, bringing with it 125 employees, and acquire its closest competitor Armet, leading to another 100 staff joining the Abbey roster. Despite all this activity, Abbey kept its eye on the ball, maintaining service levels to its existing loyal customer base, and retaining all its contracted business in 2016; as a result, sales rose 66% in 2016.

The judges said: “Abbey sees its customers as partners, proved by some impressive testimonials.” These testimonials included: “the knowledge, energy and positivity that Abbey exhibits, along with its attention to detail, really sets it apart”; “strategically it is first class, approaching each challenge with minimum fuss and always delivering an innovative solution”.

Elddis Transport (Consett)

Elddis was founded in 1971 and is still family owned and run, with CEO Nigel Cook, the son of co-founder Geoffrey, now heading the operation. In the past 45 years, the firm has steadily expanded and now runs 160 trucks and 320 trailers from 10 sites. Its financial performance has been consistent, with a pre-tax profit of approximately £600,000 on turnover of £26m for the past three years.

Elddis offers a range of logistics services from a single pallet up to full trailer high cube services

28 MotorTransport MTR_080517_028HAULIER.indd 28

using the UK’s largest volume longer semi-trailer. In 2016 the firm had only two annual test failures, giving it a 99.6% first-time pass rate. The company has invested £250,000 in an authorised testing facility lane at one of its workshops.

The company values its staff highly, an in the past five years has given back more than 10% of annual profit to staff in bonuses. This has been repaid with an average length of service of over 10 years, and one driver has worked for the company for more than 45 years. Elddis also enjoys long relationships with its customers, with more than half its business coming from businesses it has worked with for at least 45 years. It has invested in IT that provides customers with real-time web-based information and its customer services team with vehicle ETAs to highlight any late-running deliveries.

One judge said: “Strong relationships and great customer service ensures longevity of the business.” Another commented: “Nigel Cook lives and breathes the business.” “This is a decent family business,” said another.

Wincanton

Wincanton, the UK’s largest listed logistics operator with more than 200 locations, 3,500 vehicles and 5,000 drivers, has seen a remarkable turnaround in its performance in recent years. After some badly-timed overseas and UK investments ahead of the 2008 credit crunch, Wincanton struggled, with debts reaching £152m in 2011. Swiss turnaround specialist Eric Born came in as CEO and restructured the business, pulling out of Europe, and his successor Adrian Colman has continued the turnaround since his arrival in 2015. The company has cut net debt from £65m to £40m in the past two years and reduced its pension deficit. It made a pre-tax profit of £65m on a turnover of £1.1bn last year and the share price rose from 148p in March 2016 to 282p in February 2017.

Operating in the general haulage, container haulage, construction, grocery and retail, home and DIY and general merchandise sectors, Wincanton also owns the R&M network Pullman Fleet Services. Business highlights in 2016 were securing the national transport contract with discount retailer Wilko and entering the ready-mixed concrete market with an eight-year contract with Hanson. The company says health and safety is of paramount importance and has taken a number of innovative and effective steps to engage its staff with its safety messages. These include its Shela (safety, health, environment learning aid), which has helped the company achieve its goal of a 70% reduction in lost time injuries in the past five years, and the Wellbeing programme that has saved £869,000 in a reduced absenteeism.

“The focus on staff and safety is showing exceptional results,” commented one judge. “Wincanton is a fantastic business that has come through some difficult times,” said another. “This is a remarkable success story,” said another judge.

8.5.17 03/05/2017 16:57:53

At Volvo Trucks we believe that behind every great Haulier is a great truck.

Volvo makes great trucks, but it’s more than just this that make Volvo Trucks special – it’s our people.

www.volvotrucks.co.uk

Search: VolvoTrucksUK

Passionate people that want to keep your vehicle on the road, all the time. That’s why we are proud to sponsor the Haulier of the Year 2017 award. Just like the winner of this coveted award we have a real passion to see our customers succeed.

Volvo Trucks. Driving Progress 55911

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03/05/2017 11:49:39 18/04/2017 09:43

MT Awards 2017 shortlists

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Innovation Award Sponsored by

DPD

In 2016 DPD launched two major products – Precise and the DPD app. Precise enables online shoppers to select an exact one-hour delivery slot on the day of their choice, dramatically improving the delivery experience. Reports are produced daily for Precise, highlighting the performance of every depot and driver. The DPD app gives customers complete control over their parcel deliveries. Consumers can set up their own profile, set delivery preferences and track deliveries in real time. Also, the app contains up-to-the-minute information as well as real-time in-flight options, and allows people to set eight personal delivery preferences to reduce the chances of missing a parcel delivery.

Judges said the app is “ground breaking”. They also commented that the technology is industry-leading, focused on customer requirements as well as constantly measured, monitored and improved.

load correctly and prevents strap damage. It also dramatically cuts unnecessary physical strain on drivers and gives them peace of mind that their load is safely secured. It is available exclusively through the RHA. Judges commented that ExtraClick+ is a good solution to a clear problem, prevents damage to the load, and also offers health and safety benefits.

John Lewis Partnership

The John Lewis Partnership (JLP) transport team conducted a detailed investigation into the aerodynamic performance of its trailer fleet to look at potential environmental benefits and ensure its trailers operate at the same level as its tractor units. To reduce drag, the business wanted to reduce the height of its trailers, smooth airflow with a boat tail-shaped rear, with the trailer roof and sides sloped towards the rear. It also investigated airflow beneath its trailers, in particular the effect of side skirts and obstructions to the air flow. To test the research, JLP commissioned Gray & Adams to construct six refrigerated trailers to its specification. The trailers are now in service and have delivered a 7% improvement in fuel consumption and are the standard design used by Waitrose. There are 54 in service and 20 more will be ordered this year.

Judges said a lot of research went into developing the trailer.

Tiger Trailers

In 2015 Expert Logistics – the two-man delivery firm owned by retailer AO – commissioned Cheshire-based Tiger Trailers to design a double-deck trailer for its UK operation. The aim was to deliver financial, operational and environmental efficiencies across its trunking operation, which, at the time, used a fleet of 100 double-deck trailers that offered an 18-tonne payload capacity with white goods spread over three loading areas – on the neck, upper deck and double-stacked on the lower deck.

However, Tiger designed a double-deck trailer with a lifting roof, lifting deck and dual-length curtains that has increased load fill for Expert Logistics by 20% with no reduction in payload capacity; eliminated one in six journeys; reduced repair and maintenance costs by 40%; and improved safety thanks to a lower centre of gravity.

The judges said Tiger had produced a creative and innovative technical solution and developed a good partnership with the end user.

RHA/Extra Click+

As an engineer in the transport industry Bobby Connor saw the issues faced by drivers when attempting to secure loads and tighten ratchet straps. He also witnessed people using an array of unsuitable, potentially dangerous, implements to achieve an approximate tension of ratchet straps; this led him to develop the ExtraClick+ device. ExtraClick+ applies upward pressure on the handle and an audible “click” alerts the user that the required pressure has been reached. The device, which secures the

30 MotorTransport MTR_080517_030INNOVATION.indd 30

Transdek

Transdek developed its wedge double-deck box van/refrigerated trailer for Boots as an upgrade to the retailer’s fleet of step-frame trailers. The trailer includes a fixed second deck with 40mm double-skinned aluminium plank as well as a chassis that includes an slimline 76mm neck. It also features a new, double-deck specific form of rear door called the V-Glide door. The two-section doors are based on the design of sash windows and make opening and closing quick and easy. They slide within vertical columns set in the rear-frame of the trailer and remain sealed until after docking. Following extensive trials, Boots ordered its first 65 wedge trailers in August 2016. The wedge offers 18% to 25% more usable load space compared with conventional double-deckers and Boots predicts that it will make 1,092 fewer trunking deliveries as a result.

Judges described the trailer as efficient and environmentally friendly and praised the excellent door design.

8.5.17 03/05/2017 17:04:15

£1,600 saving per truck.* That’s fuel for thought.

The FUELMAX range Save up to £1,600 per vehicle.* The new FUELMAX Steer and Drive in combination with Marathon LHTII rolls efficiently to save you up to £1,600 on fuel per vehicle every year compared to the average of the tested competitors and up to £1,300 compared to its closest competitor.* Learn more at www.goodyear.co.uk/truck

* Fuel savings calculations made by Goodyear G*ICL are estimated and based on a typical five-axle 40 tonne tractor-trailer combination on sizes 315/70R22.5 on Steer and Drive and 385/55R22.5 on Trailer, assuming an average fuel consumption of 34 l/100 km, an annual mileage of 150,000 km/ year and a fuel price of £1.40 litre, knowing that actual results may vary based on, but not restricted to, road and weather conditions, driving style, wear conditions, tyre size, tyre pressure and vehicle maintenance

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03/05/2017 11:51:01

MT Awards 2017 shortlists

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Training Award Sponsored by

Cemex

With a 3,000-strong workforce, including 300 in-house drivers, Cemex has set itself a target of being an “industry leader in road safety and driver behaviours”. All new drivers received face-to-face interviews, driving assessments and a six-month modular training programme, available online to ensure a nationally consistent approach. Employees receive an annual review with line managers as well as being assessed through the Cemex yearly Talent Review process that develops succession plans for staff showing potential for career progression. In 2016, Cemex delivered 13,400 training interventions, which equated to 34 events per person. These included: a minimum of one Driver CPC day – this year focused on tacho rules and customer service; a safety stand down day – interactive safety group training; video safety alerts and toolbox talks; safer urban driving training to understand the hazards faced by cyclists; and Safed and telematics training. Cemex has partnered with external agencies, such as Fors, the FTA and TfL, to strengthen its training portfolio and has achieved a 32% reduction in accident damage and claims in 12 months.

The judges said the entry showed a high level of training across the entire company and demonstrated the positive difference it was making.

DPD

To support its rapid growth strategy, DPD wanted to ensure it focused on developing its talent pipeline with people who could help it achieve its goals.

This included four key areas: an apprenticeship scheme; graduate programme; management development initiative; and a new executive development programme (EDP) – the focus of its entry this year. Eleven candidates were selected through a nine-box grid used across the business to identify those wanting to progress up the ranks, with those in the Hi Potential category picked for EDP. In 2016, each EDP candidate received a £7,000 investment in training courses and 1-2-1 executive coaching, sourced by specialist CEB Talent Management following a competitive tender process. The board created 12 core competencies for the EDP programme to cover, which candidates were measured against before and after the coaching. Candidates were also given the opportunity to deputise at a board meeting and work on strategically crucial projects in the business. After 12 months on EDP, candidates showed a 46% improvement in core competencies, with five of the initial 11 promoted to more senior roles.

The judges said the entry showed excellent investment in ensuring internal candidates were trained to board-level potential, with clear progress demonstrated.

32 MotorTransport MTR_080517_032TRAINING.indd 32

Samworth Brothers Supply Chain

Samworth Brothers Supply Chain launched its Driver Academy in 2014 with two aims: to ensure its driver workforce kept performing at a high level; and to tackle the shortage of qualified drivers across the industry with a number of routes into a driving career for new entrants. An 11-strong driver training team is now able to take a car driver successfully through to a category C+E licence, resourced with two dedicated rigid training vehicles and two artics. All Driver CPC training is created and delivered in-house, with a particular focus on safety and fuel efficiency. As a result, the company has reported a reduction in accident damage and improvements in fuel economy across the fleet. In 2016, 20 new drivers were developed through the academy programme and now work as HGV drivers in the business. Four routes of entry – Warehouse to Wheels, Car to Lorry, Bakery to Wheels, Newly Qualified Driver Programme – aim to deliver 51 new drivers to the operation this year.

The judges said the training strategy clearly identified the need to tackle driver shortages and liked the multiple routes made available to a driving career.

UK Mail

UK Mail aims to be the “first choice for customers” and to help it achieve its goals decided to develop its Inspire to Aspire programme for client services team members. It was set up in 2016 to “support the creation of a customer services intervention that would create advocacy, belief and excitement in the business and increase customer satisfaction and quality”. Selected employees from across the business deliver the training, with all-important buy-in from senior managers through a series of taster sessions to showcase the programme. Training includes a four-week induction for all new starters and the use of role play with actors brought in to recreate a realistic interaction with customers. Since implementing the programme UK Mail has: seen more passion and empowerment from its staff; raised the bar in terms of customer service offering; demonstrated commitment to internal development of staff; and boosted revenue and profitability.

The judges said the entry showed a clearly defined need and well-thoughtout training and progression plan for employees.

8.5.17 03/05/2017 17:06:17

MTR_080517_D01AC73.qxp_CM_21.02.13_007DA1 28/04/2017 09:59 Page 1

The winning formula...

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03/05/2017 11:53:10

MT Awards 2017 shortlists

motortransport.co.uk

Fleet Van of the Year Sponsored by

Fiat Ducato

Described by the judges as “one of the most flexible manufacturers to deal with”, Fiat and its large Ducato model has been making inroads in to the fleet market thanks to an ever-improving range of vehicles, expanding dealer network and greater dedication to supporting its commercial customers.

Highly regarded in Europe as a chassis for motorhomes, the Ducato is now being recognised for its excellent payload capacity and much improved durability. Servicing intervals are now at 30,000 miles and the Ducato has been improved with a new clutch system, upgraded brakes, stronger door hinges and body panel reinforcements. These changes have been made to help prolong the life of the vehicle, and helped secure it some impressive new customers – most notably in blue-light services, where a raft of NHS trusts have added the Ducato to their fleets.

When Fiat launched the new Ducato it simply arrived and delivered. It’s unpretentious and proving reliable, and that in a nutshell sums up why our panel chose to include it on the shortlist.

Our judges acknowledged the efforts of the Fiat Professional network to ensure support is available, with improved opening hours from its 78 Fiat Professional dealers in the UK. It is backed up by a 24-month unlimited mileage or three-year 120,000-mile warranty, which, when it comes to servicing and repair, is supported by an array of dealers from an HGV background (courtesy of group partner Iveco). The panel noted the excellent parts availability they have encountered, but said that model availability can be an issue because of the high demand for Ducato chassis among bodybuilders.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The list of superlatives to describe Mercedes-Benz and its Sprinter van by the panel would run to several pages, such is the regard for this titan of the van world. Fleet operators have been buying them in droves, but the panel repeatedly returned to the fact that out of all of the competition mentioned in the same breath, driver acceptance of the Sprinter vans was second to none.

While our panel noted that residual values are no longer as strong as they once were – due largely to the fact that there are so many good examples of the Sprinter van at all ages now filling the market – the total cost of ownership of the Sprinter makes it a tough vehicle to better. The 24/7 roadside assistance of MobiloVan was highly praised by the panel, which identified Mercedes as the industry leader for support services and said the first-time roadside fix rate is excellent, with MobiloVan technicians having a very good first-time fix rate compared with other roadside services. “They know the problems and send the right vehicle to the breakdown,” said one judge.

Reliability has also seen members of the panel increase replacement cycles

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from five years to seven years, while Mercedes’ willingness to negotiate a capped nationwide labour rate has ensured consistency in the repair and maintenance costs for their fleet – “the in-life parts and support costs are the best in the industry”.

The Mercedes Sprinter notched up its ninth win in the Fleet Van of the Year category last year – could 2017 be its 10th victory?

Vauxhall Vivaro

It’s no coincidence that the three shortlisted vans for 2017 are from the manufacturers of the last three winners of the MT Fleet Van of the Year award.

Vauxhall’s Vivaro last won the award in 2015, when the panel was impressed with the manufacturer’s willingness to provide solutions to aftermarket problems direct from the factory, providing a great overall experience and a van that is at the top of the list in terms of total cost of ownership. Two years on, the panel believes the Vauxhall Vivaro’s proposition has strengthened, with a strong demand in the second-hand market as well as good reliability and warranty support. Residual values for the latest Vivaro remain high, making it an economical proposition on whole-life costs. The highly competitive upfront cost of the Vivaro has seen it continue to be a favourite for all types of fleets.

With excellent payload capabilities and a range that includes two different heights and two body lengths, the Vivaro is a flexible workhorse that trades as much on its operating abilities as it does on its Made in Britain values. In 2015, the Vivaro was strongly endorsed by drivers from several of the large fleets, and that acceptance has continued as the product ages. Operators tell us they have utter confidence in operating them on a five-year cycle and receive professional and competent dealer support.

While the Sprinter and the Ducato received both positive and negative remarks about its inclusion on the shortlist from our panel, a lack of critical comments directed at the Vivaro speaks volumes about its strengths and credibility as a fleet van favourite.

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Careers

motortransport.co.uk

DHL promotes equality DHL Supply Chain has said the diversity of its employees is a “genuine strength” after being named in The Times Top 50 Employers for Women 2017.

Also ranked on the list are the Royal Mail, the DfT and Enterprise.

The listing ranks UK employers that are making gender equality a key part of their business strategy, with consistent commitment to creating inclusive workplace cultures and progressing women in the workplace, across the entire organisation and at all levels.

Melanie Kreis, corporate board member for HR at Deutsche Post DHL, said of being placed on the list: “As a global company of half a million people, the diversity of our employees is a genuine strength, and this is is

why equality in the workplace is so important to us.”

Currently, 24% of all executive new hires and/or promotions at DHL Supply Chain UK and Ireland are women, just 1% away from its 25% target for 2020.

The company is also working towards the target of ensuring 100% of job roles can be adapted for flexible working.

Nikki Craig, senior vice-president HR, DHL Supply Chain, UK and Ireland, said: “For too long the logistics industry has had a reputation of being male-dominated and not supportive of women. We are proud to be reversing the trend and creating a team that better mirrors the diversity of our customers, suppliers and investors.”

Sean Negus joins Fowler Welch Fowler Welch’s new head of operations for its ambient service has said he will bring a “new approach” to the arm of the business.

Sean Negus (right) will be based at Fowler Welch’s ambient DC in Heywood and joins the firm after holding senior roles at businesses including Safeway and The Brakes Group. He replaces Jimmy Lee. Negus said: “The ambient supply chain is calling out for a new approach and I firmly believe we can develop solutions based on our chilled heritage, that will drive a step-change in both service offering and end-to-end efficiency.”

John Kerrigan, chief operating officer for Fowler Welch, added: “We have seen great vision and understanding

of the business’s objectives from Sean.

“His background gives us unprecedented insight into the future requirements from a customer’s perspective.

We are therefore very positive that he will continue to build on Fowler Welch’s successes.”

Paul Price is the new North East MAN MAN Truck and Bus UK has hired Paul Price to be its new area aftersales manager in the North East.

With 34 years of industry experience, Price joins MAN from Eurovia Group’s Ringway, where he was divisional fleets and workshop manager.

Price said: “I bring credibility and experience, having built up strong relationships with customers.

“I started my automotive career as a young apprentice and to now work for a quality, world-renowned brand, is exciting and a challenge I am looking forward to embarking on.”

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Staffing Matters

By David Coombes

Let’s have a secretary of state who stays in post for a sensible time Were many of us really surprised that the general election was called?

For me the only surprise was that Theresa May had rejected the idea quite so much in the preceding weeks.

But here we are, another opportunity to express our democratic voice, to choose a direction for the country, to give our mandate to one party or the other for the next five years.

Of course, Brexit will dominate the election, though there will be some mention of the NHS, schools, Trident and, of course, where the tax burden should fall.

But I doubt that transport policy will have even got near the focus groups arranged by the main parties when discussing their manifestos.

I’m afraid this election will once again illustrate that the logistics sector exists in a shadowy hinterland, ignored and avoided by politicians from all sides.

How I long for a genuine long-term transport strategy, one that brings together the various parts of the whole sector, one where passenger and freight needs are considered alongside each other.

But key to this is having a secretary of state for transport who stays in post longer than the average Premier League manager.

So far this century we have had 11 secretaries of state (health has had seven, foreign office seven, Treasury four). On average, they last 18 months.

How on earth can that be the way to administer effectively the department responsible for the key supporting national infrastructure?

So let me make my plea for the next government.

Please listen to the transport sector, to all its voices from all our subsectors right across the country, then develop a coherent strategy that clearly understands what we do, addresses our concerns and responds to our very real needs.

Then put the right person in charge of delivering it and leave them in post for five years. Constant chopping and changing does us no good whatsoever.

It’s not rocket science – but it matters to the whole economy. Treat us as the priority sector we so clearly are.

Follow me on Twitter @DavidCoombesSfL

Tel: 0117 9859 119 logisticsjobshop.co.uk admin@logistics jobshop.co.uk @LJSJobs MotorTransport 37 03/05/2017 17:58:06

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