Devereux blames fatal accident and fuel costs for slide in profits

Devereux Transport and Distribution increased sales by 6.4% last year, but the Billingham-based firm dipped into the red after it settled an HSE fine following a fatal accident.

The company reported revenues of £13.9m for the year ending 31 March, an increase of £835,000 on the previous year’s results.

Gross profit was £1.9m; however, it made a pre-tax loss of almost £93,000 after it received a fine, which it is understood related to the death of lorry driver Christopher Barnes.

The 69-year-old fell more than 7ft onto a concrete floor at a customer’s premises while he was unloading his lorry in April 2018.

MD Ken Devereux told MT the whole incident was still “very raw” and that it had given the customer its own safe systems of work, including working at height.

In its trading statement the company said that although sales had increased, rising fuel costs caused a small drop in its gross profit margin. “The company’s trading results for the year are in line with the expectations of the director,” it added.

Palletways has appointed two new managers (pictured) for its Cardiff depot.

Matt Carter, previously sales manager in Bristol, has been promoted to depot manager commercial for Cardiff and new face Sharon Askey becomes depot manager operations.

Palletways said both appointments bring a wealth of industry experience with them and they will be jointly responsible for the day-to-day running of the operation at Atlantic Way.

Carter said: “I couldn’t be happier to remain part of the Palletways family which has invested greatly in my develop- ment, allowed me to learn new skills and hone my experience.

Askey added: “I’m keen to help build on Palletways’ offering and operational efficiency, attract new business and strengthen the brand in South Wales.”