Spring 2014 Magazine www.pallex.com
Pall-Ex Depot of the Year awards
2013
2
7
10
In this issue Pall-Ex backs the fight for fair fuel prices / P3
Retail update
Supply chain: adapting to market demands
CJE success
25 per cent year-on-year growth
Royal thanks
Pall-Ex has donated ÂŁ20,000 to Carers Trust
Women at the top: Pall-Ex’s international female leadership / P12-13 Impressive growth for the Pall-Ex Group / P14
2
STAFF NEWS
Welcome to our Spring edition of Fastlane
PALL-EX NEWS
Pall-Ex stretches from our members through to their customers and we firmly believe that this will facilitate even further growth in 2014.
I am so encouraged by the optimism which is driving Pall-Ex’s membership. The continued growth throughout our UK and European networks is fitting at a time when moods are inspired by Springtime. New shoots of growth for the economy echo our network’s positivity and appetite to achieve even more, in terms of quality as well as volume increases. Confidence in
I’d like to personally congratulate the recipients of our Pall-Ex awards, which celebrate the collaborative relationships and outstanding individuals who power our network. Likewise, it’s great to see that PallEx’s efforts on behalf of charities, including the Carers Trust, are as enthusiastic as ever. Our people are, more than ever, motivated by the logistics industry’s potential as a facilitator for economic growth and social influence, with the capacity to make an impact both locally and globally.
We at Pall-Ex have spoken out against rising fuel costs and argued against this strangulation of our industry. Expect us to further consult our members and use our voice to take even more action in 2014. Finally, I’m pleased to announce that PallEx will have a strong presence at one of Europe’s leading transport and logistics events in Paris this April. From the SITL exhibition, we will look to further develop our European operations and showcase our capacity to provide quality logistics services across the continent. Hilary Devey Founder and CEO, Pall-Ex Group
Retail update: adapting to market demands The retail supply chain is experiencing challenging times. While the economic situation allows for cautious optimism, conditions remain tough on the high street. The retail sector is even more cost-conscious than ever before, leading retailers to assess the value of their logistics provision. Retailers are looking to hold less stock and require a fast, cost-effective delivery service which can replenish shelves without downtime. In a competitive market place, brand reputation is critical. Retailers must be seen to deliver on time. A reliable logistics partner and transparent supply chain are crucial. Hauliers must optimise efficiencies in order to maintain their competitive edge. Restricted access to retailers’ stores remains a problem. Short windows of time and limited space are an issue, particularly when pallets often need to be split on location.
Fast-paced online retail, which demands reduced consignment sizes, is perfect for our business model: small consignments and rapid deployment are our core strengths. Pall-Ex is always looking to develop value-added services, and is seeing an increased uptake of its Eco Drive initiative; which sees Pall-Ex members collecting waste packaging for recycling: a great selling point, enhancing everybody’s green credentials. Likewise, our Retail Plus service is utilised by a wide range of major retailers and 3PL clients.
It’s official: fuel is the number one crisis in UK logistics Pall-Ex’s members have railed against the rising cost of fuel as a major sticking point for the logistics sector. In a recent survey, fuel costs were highlighted as the network’s biggest concern; an issue which CEO Hilary Devey has branded as “crucial”. Members also reported that they do not think the The Government does enough to support the current fuel logistics industry, and duty rate of 58p even undervalues its role in the economy. per litre represents
a significant bulk
“I’m not at all in the costs of surprised that fuel came up as such a running a haulage major sticking point business for our members,” Hilary Devey commented.
Pall-Ex believes that the demands of retailers can be converted into opportunities.
“Personal and commercial transport is the foundation of a strong infrastructure. If the costs of products and services are reduced as a result of cheaper transport, the economic benefits are enhanced. So why must we all pay such extortionate amounts?” Retail Plus includes home delivery and timed deliveries outside of trading hours. The service dramatically improves retailers’ environmental credentials, and the storeroom service that our drivers undertake is unheard of in competitor networks. This crucial ability to deliver according to our retail customers’ evolving requirements has been critical in winning the trust of service-users. While we should see a much greater degree of stability for the high street over the coming months, Pall-Ex expects to see competitors following in its lead. Our network will respond by continuing to develop services which acknowledge the challenges faced by our customers.
Next Fastlane: Summer 2014 News & feedback: contact Nicola Forman – PR and Marketing Assistant E: nforman@pallex.co.uk T: 01530 239079
3
From 3D TVs to holiday vouchers…
START DATE 17TH MARCH
Export freight through the Pall-Ex network to win fantastic prizes! Put our excellent value and fantastic service levels to the test… Simply register to enter; then send pallets via Ace Express in order to be in with your chance to win!
Managing director Adrian Russell believes that ignorance of the logistics sector presents the industry with one of its biggest struggles. “Many issues have affected the logistics sector in recent years. The recession took out an appalling number of haulage businesses. “Legislation has also had an impact. The likes of EU proposals to restrict double-deck trailers, which we at Pall-Ex successfully campaigned against, all cost money that could otherwise be spent on services and innovation. “Logistics organisations can do their best to cut costs in almost every other area of their business. What we can’t control is the cost of the fuel that keeps our fleets moving. “The expense of fuel duty appears to send a message from the Government that road transport is an unnecessary, wasteful inconvenience which clogs up the roads. “Our model attracts customers and members because it saves fuel. Yet, while our members benefit from Pall-Ex
membership, the cost of filling their trucks is still their main concern. “The logistics sector, and its importance, is often under-appreciated in consultations on fuel duty. “I suggest that the Government should encourage more transport overnight, lessening the pressure of daytime traffic and allowing for the smoother transportation of goods. “Co-existent policies for rail and road must be developed. Until coherence can be achieved, transportation in the UK will continue to be an expensive and unstable business.” Pall-Ex, which is working to support the FairFuelUK campaign, believes that the rising cost of fuel is an unnecessary strangulation on the growth of both the industry and the economy. Pall-Ex will continue to carry out regular surveys of its membership in order to strengthen its service and address industry issues.
Join the fight for lower prices at the pumps: Sign up and support the FairFuelUK campaign!
www.pallex.com
FASTLANE SPRING 2014
4
PALL-EX NEWS
PALL-EX NEWS
Pall-Ex Depot of the Year awards 2013 Depot of the Year: Linkline Express Services Pall-Ex’s Depot of the Year title was awarded to Birmingham’s Linkline Express Services Ltd (D29); with Cheshire’s STD Developments Ltd (D57) and Elland-based A.D.D. Express Ltd (D73) recognised as close runners-up.
benefits, the company focusses on opportunities to assist and develop the entire network.
superb customer service. They are all great ambassadors for the company.
Managing director Gerard Culbertson explained, “We literally get out what we put in. Pall-Ex business is a key part of our strategy and success and we treat our co-members with empathy and respect.
“As much as they deserve this, I don’t think anybody could quite believe we’d finally won!
Outstanding Contribution to the Network: STD Developments
“We’re proud of our contribution, and appreciate the hard work and dedication of our fellow depots.”
Pall-Ex freight makes up around 90 per cent of Linkline’s business, with the company inputting and delivering hundreds of pallets per night on behalf of the network.
Linkline’s award is a first for the depot, which has scooped Outstanding Contribution to the Network and a number of runnerup prizes in previous years.
Congleton-based STD Development services a range of industries and distributes freight, from crockery to agricultural supplies, throughout Cheshire, Warrington, Manchester and Stoke.
The depot is pleased to provide additional coverage for Pall-Ex whenever the need arises, enjoying the benefits and challenges of this growth; and has recently extended its Pall-Ex operations to cover the whole of Birmingham.
According to Gerard, the win will drive his staff to do even better in future. “It was about time, too,” he laughed, commenting:
Linkline approaches its Pall-Ex membership with confidence, positivity and pride. Rather than simply aiming to extract
“Our loyal and dependable employees are brilliant and provide
The depot, managed by brother and sister team Craig and Lynne Stevens, is characterised by a sense of commitment, continuity and personal responsibility. This ethos has served the company well: its latest accolade is STD’s 14th Pall-Ex award.
Operating from a 3,000 square foot warehouse, the depot is located at the heart of Saltley’s trade district. Linkline, which operates 29 vehicles and employs more than 40 people, has had a great year, retaining and adding to a mixed portfolio of customers.
“We’re hungry for more.”
Above left to right: Rita Culbertson, Sue Weston, Gillian Glass, Faye Williams, Dennis Thorne and Gerard Culbertson
Trunk Drivers of the Year 2013 Wayne Talbot was named as Night Trunk Driver of the Year 2013. Wayne, employed for more than 15 years by Ilkeston-based PMB Pallet Express Limited (D02), emerged as a generous and cheerful team-player with a reputation for happiness, punctuality, helpfulness and excellent communication skills. PMB Pallet Express general manager, Ben Lavin, described
Wayne as “a valuable, longstanding colleague, whose knowledge makes him crucial to our operations,” and commented: “Wayne is an all-round good guy who knows his job as well as our Pall-Ex colleagues and operations inside out.” Wyn Court, employed for more than 35 years at Avon-based Massey Wilcox Limited (D09), was named as Pall-Ex’s Day Trunk Driver of the Year 2013.
“
Athoroughly deserving, reliable and dependable winner, and a credit to the profession
Known as a tireless team player, Wyn was described by depot principal Rob Wilcox as “a thoroughly deserving, reliable and dependable winner, and a credit to the profession.” Wyn and Wayne were presented with Pall-Ex model trucks and high street gift vouchers by Fraser MacNeill, operations director at Pall-Ex’s Ellistown hub.
Next Fastlane: Summer 2014 News & feedback: contact Nicola Forman – PR and Marketing Assistant E: nforman@pallex.co.uk T: 01530 239079
Trunk Drivers of the Year 2012 Fastlane would like to commend 2012’s winning trunk drivers Ian Fairbrother
S TD Developments (D57) scooped Pall-Ex’s Outstanding Contribution to the Network award, with A.D.D. Express (D73) and Lincolnshire’s Cartwright Bros (Haulage) Ltd (D80) named as highly regarded runners-up.
Linkline Express Services (D29) has been a Pall-Ex member since the network’s inception in 1996.
5
Transport runs in the Stevens family. Established by the late Fred Stevens, STD joined Pall-Ex in 1998. Lynne, an accountant, joined the business upon leaving education; while Craig trained as a chef and ran a pub before joining the company. With two generations of three different families currently a part of its close-knit team, the depot employs 38 local, long-standing members of staff. STD sponsors Congleton Football Club and plays a responsible and active role in the community, creating opportunities for workexperience, apprenticeships, and training for young people interested in transport, mechanics, and office-based roles. Lynne Stevens commented: “We’re so lucky to have a fabulously loyal, wonderful workforce. We’re like a big family, which is what makes our work so enjoyable. www.pallex.com
Top row from left to right: Robert Mitchell, Marc Cooper, Lynne Stevens, Steve Mitchell, Adrian Russell, Craig Stevens, Jill Galagher. Bottom row: Nathan Cooper
“
I cannot praise our people enough. Everything we do and everything we have ever achieved is due to their hard work and team efforts.
The depot’s Pall-Ex business is a matter of continuity and inclusivity. Keeping the network on track is a high priority for Lynne and Craig, who emphasise the importance of communication, aspiration, and pride within the network. Craig Stevens commented: “Pall-Ex has allowed our business to achieve more. Within the network, we all belong. As one another’s customers and colleagues we are a community, and it is important that we assist and work alongside one another. “As Pall-Ex members, we are concerned for the success of our fellow depots and, while there will always be differences of opinion; respect, encouragement and the willingness to learn are always at the forefront of our interactions.
Ian Fairbrother of A.D.D Express Ltd (D73) was 2012’s Day Trunk Driver of the Year. A valued employee since 1996, Ian began his career with A.D.D. by driving a 7.5 ton collection and delivery vehicle, but undertook the depot’s day trunk role after acquiring his HGV class 1 license. A.D.D. Express director David Fairbrother commented: “Well-liked by all of his colleagues, Ian is an experienced and very dependable member of the team. He is a great person and a great employee, always kind, consciences and empathetic. Ian is a model employee and is a pleasure to work with.”
Iain Robinson Iain Robinson, employed for nine years by Murray Hogg Ltd (D72), won Pall-Ex’s 2012 Night Trunk Driver of the Year accolade. Director Alyson Summerhill praised Iain’s faultless performance, explaining: “A hub colleague once wrote the comment: ‘top bloke’ on Iain’s manifest, and this description sums him up perfectly. Iain does an excellent job. “Undeterred by traffic, bad weather and other impediments, Iain always manages to ensure freight makes it to and from our depot on time. His attitude and performance are outstanding and his contribution helps Murray Hogg to deliver excellent service throughout the Pall-Ex network.”
“We are all in this together.” FASTLANE SPRING 2014
6
MEMBER NEWS
MEMBER NEWS
Worldwide Pallet Logistics extols growth-boosting benefits of Pall-Ex membership
Founded by Nick Carter in 1987, CJE proudly reported 2013 sales of £3.8 million. CJE has explored new ways of working which have presented a range of benefits.
Group sales director Chris Tancock visited Tanzania to advise upon strategies for reducing transport and logistics costs in East Africa.
In 2011, Nick Carter joined ‘Going for Growth’, a governmentbacked enterprise which helped CJE to draw up a gamechanging five-year growth plan.
Chris was part of the Government’s Department for International Development (DFID) delegation, and reported:
Worldwide Pallet Logistics Ltd (D62) has revealed figures announcing a 31 per cent year-on-year sales growth.
“The region must overcome hurdles to ensure progress. Logistics operations are slow and overly-legislated, with huge delays at border crossings.
The Erith-based haulier has enlarged its customer base by 27 per cent and delivered 40 per cent more freight via Pall-Ex’s network.
“
“Unstable regulations result in cost and delays. The road infrastructure requires upgrading and the lack of mechanisation is a hindrance.” Chris observed a great deal of positivity during his visit, adding: “I was impressed by the ambition and entrepreneurship among the people I met. There is an enormous will to succeed and an appetite to grab opportunities.
“The nation’s hauliers, despite being in competition, are speaking as one to improve trade conditions. It was impressive to see a collective approach to facilitating eventual gain for everyone. This emphasised the ways in which partnership can assist the logistics industry in stimulating economic growth worldwide.”
CJE Logistics attributes growth to collaboration and investment in people Hull-based CJE Logistics (D92) has revealed new figures showing 25 per cent year-on-year growth during a milestone year of progress.
Pall-Ex shares logistics sector expertise in Africa
I was impressed by the ambition and entrepreneurship among the people I met
7
WPL attributes its success to a number of factors. The depot, which employs 20 staff, utilises a cost-efficient, subcontracted core fleet of 14 vehicles which are deployed whenever and wherever they are needed. Drivers are also subcontracted: managing director Peter Benson explained that this practice is extremely beneficial: “Our core of regular drivers is as much a part of the staff as our direct employees. We can make adjustments easily, according to the demands of our day-to-day operations.” Director Robert Brooks believes Pall-Ex membership is essential to the depot’s success. Network freight accounts for more than 60 per cent of its business. Robert Brooks commented, “Pallet networks are the future for hauliers and their customers, and, for us, Pall-Ex is the best.” Nine years of membership have allowed WPL to take advantage of a wealth of Pall-Ex benefits. The depot takes full advantage of Pall-Ex’s incentivised rates for the distribution of Euro, half, and quarter pallets; extending costsavings to its customers, a strategy which has attracted new business.
Robert Brooks commented, “We pass on the benefits we receive. Especially during times of hardship for many, this feature of Pall-Ex membership allows us to add value to our service and enables us to send even more freight through the network, which is excellent news for everybody.” Pall-Ex’s IT offerings have also been maximised. Peter Benson explained: “Pall-Ex’s technology cuts costs for everybody. We have transferred our entire transport management system to TWINE, making our operations smoother and simpler. Since adopting SMS-EPOD, we’ve noticed a real gain in time and efficiency.” WPL maintains a strong focus on delivering its core strengths, using Pall-Ex’s telesales team to great effect and never hesitating to create leads; conducting email and flyer campaigns and always looking for opportunities to up-sell. Excellent customer services have contributed to WPL’s success. Business from existing clients has increased by 20 per cent. Robert Brooks added: “We’re proud of our success. Our KPIs speak for themselves in promoting our business and increasing custom from existing clients. “Pall-Ex membership has allowed us to increase our business with freedom and flexibility: we’re proud of our contribution, and in return we benefit from Pall-Ex’s strength and support. Our partner members take great responsibility for our customers and their freight, and the scale of Pall-Ex’s operation means we can offer our customers the best service at the best price.”
Next Fastlane: Summer 2014 News & feedback: contact Nicola Forman – PR and Marketing Assistant E: nforman@pallex.co.uk T: 01530 239079
A new ‘Roadmap’ strategy was built around CJE’s existing ‘It’s All About People’ initiative; a business improvement campaign driven by staff and customer satisfaction goals and a focus upon positive change. CJE’s plan has already achieved above and beyond its initial expectations. Future-thinking has been crucial, explained Nick Carter, who commented: “The transport industry has relied upon historical practices, but the need to evolve is imperative for survival.
“With the addition of only two extra vehicles, we have massively increased our freight volumes and maximised the utilisation of existing business assets.”
enabled staff to add value to their roles through industry-recognised qualifications.
CJE compiled a list of cost-saving KPIs, equipping its drivers with specially configured smartphones, and fitting its vehicles with onboard cameras.
Hull University graduates Mila Sklare and James Johnson bring a fresh dimension to CJE’s capabilities and the appointment of Debra Hart, former Pall-Ex commercial director, has further enhanced the depot’s development.
Outsourcing has allowed CJE to focus upon service-delivery, and CJE-BEST, an internal skills development programme, has
Nick Carter commented: “We are all so pleased with our achievements, and are looking forward to further developments in the future”.
T&R Phillips calls in new mobile solution New arrivals for the Fairbrother family David Fairbrother of A.D.D. Express (D73) and wife Victoria recently welcomed identical twins into their family. Edward Alexander weighed 3.10 lbs and William David 2.15lb. The boys, who now weigh more than 5lbs each, are happy and healthy and making excellent progress, much to the delight of proud Dad Dave!
www.pallex.com
T&R Phillips (D53) is benefitting from a new mobile system, which supports the roadworthiness and compliance of its fleet. The company, with depots in Swansea and Cardiff, operates more than 50 HGV vehicles. Owner and managing director Ian Phillips invested in electronic defect management solution, SmartCheck, from Mobile Solutions. The system records data from drivers’ daily walkaround checks on a smart-phone, ensuring VOSA compliance and removing the need for paper-based records.
Photos are included in drivers’ reports, allowing fleet managers to make proactive maintenance decisions across the company’s fleet. Data is now retained electronically in the office as well as on drivers’ phones; simplifying VOSA spotchecks and proving conformity to vehicle check directives.
“SmartCheck has saved us a lot of hassle,” he continued. “Specialist technology is coming to play even more of a vital part across our entire operation.”
T&R Phillips utilises the new system to log daily tyre tread depths and compile a running record of tyrewear per vehicle. “We need to ensure our vehicles are road-worthy, and that we can prove that they are,” commented Ian Phillips. “We take road safety extremely seriously. With two locations and a large fleet, there is a lot to monitor.” FASTLANE SPRING 2014
8
MEMBER NEWS
P2P boosts business with NAVistics P2P Logistics (D90) has optimised its logistics operations with a new NAVistics transport management system from Pall-Ex partner Cooper Parry. Stoke-based P2P almost doubled its freight volumes last year; but still achieved cost-savings, thanks to its new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, supplied by NAVistics. Depot 90, which handles more than 50,000 pallets a year, offering radioactive and pharmaceutical movements as well as general haulage, required a system which could record a precise audit trail. P2P director, Mark Barfoot, is impressed with the cloud-based system. Invoicing and reconciliation now take just minutes, resulting in reduced administration and better utilising of resources. “We have visibility and control of our whole fleet and costs, from quotations to ledger, and a breakdown of management data, all in one place,” said Mark Barfoot. “We can assess profitability in an instant, which allows us to set rates accurately.” P2P services customers throughout Stoke and Staffordshire, where its business has increased well beyond the sector’s 12% growth rate. Despite its enhanced activity, P2P is operating with fewer people and lower costs.
Unlike many TMS systems, which rely on ledger accounts packages, NAVistics provides full accountancy functionality. “With the exception of vehicle tracking, NAVistics is the only software we need for the whole company,” Mark Barfoot explained. “NAVistics has functions covering other areas which we may one day explore, such as warehousing, scanning and stock capabilities,” he said. “That future-proofing is important.”
50,000 pallets a year handled by Depot 90
New fleet additions give PPL’s operations a lift Premier Palletised Ltd (D91) has taken delivery of five new Hiab lorries. The 26-tonne flatbed vehicles, fitted with atlas cranes and capable of lifting up to 13 tonnes each, are equipped with satellite-trackers and windscreen cameras.
Managing director Adam Hopcroft commented: “We’re all delighted with the new vehicles, which allow us to better manage our contract with a local builders’ merchant. “They allow us to diversify and extend our appeal to even more sectors. With ‘turf season’ almost upon us and various plans in the pipeline, the Hiabs are really proving their worth.”
MEMBER NEWS Ace Express Freight recognised for pharmaceutical operations
Firm foundations: gaining and retaining new business
Ace Express Freight (D06) has added to its credentials with a Good Distribution Practice Passport, awarded by the Irish Exporters Association.
Commercial manager Bruce Macmillan met Alyson Squire, business development manager at A.D.D Express Ltd (D73), to discuss the Elland-based depot’s on-going success.
The award covers the safe and secure handling of pharmaceutical and medicinal products and recognises the depot’s compliance and quality, from its warehousing facility to its logistical operations. Ace Express Freight is based in North County Dublin and provides an important gateway for Irish import and export services. As the only pallet distribution network to gain this accreditation in Ireland, Ace Express Freight has enhanced its competitive edge and reputation for complete supply-chain competence. Managing Director Philip Tracey commented: “We’re proud that our procedures fully conform to the high standards required by the pharmaceutical industry.”
“
Next Fastlane: Summer 2014 News & feedback: contact Nicola Forman – PR and Marketing Assistant E: nforman@pallex.co.uk T: 01530 239079
The company’s business-building formula is to find prospects, convert, and retain them. A simple strategy: but how is this put into practice? Smart data-handling is crucial. The depot creates and maintains extensive customer profiles, which are essential in targeted sales and account management. This database is updated with details of meetings and of individuals’ requirements and concerns, which assist in developing an informed relationship with current and prospective customers. On the same day that Alyson establishes dialogue with a prospective client, she mails a brochure, providing an overview of A.D.D. Express’s services. She never submits a rate tariff until she has gained a full understanding of the customer’s operations. Comprehensive, right-first-time quotations are key to earning the trust of prospective customers. When quoting, Alyson ensures that every charge is fully understood and obtains signatures to ensure that all parties assent to a visible, written agreement.
Appropriate customer services and a thorough understanding of clients’ operations is imperative in securing and developing new business. Alyson ensures that her team is fully briefed and aware of all aspects of a customer’s requirements at all times. The depot’s employees play a massive part in building and retaining productive relationships with new customers. Its team is knowledgeable and capable, and staff are available at all times to respond effectively to customers’ enquiries. Alyson recognises the importance of the role played by the depot’s drivers: sales professionals who interface with existing and potential customers on a daily basis. All drivers are uniformed, helpful and attentive to detail. Drivers are trained according to the demands of their roles; their vehicles are clean, fully-equipped and well-maintained. Alyson takes personal responsibility for coordinating a smooth transition
9
Comprehensive, right-first-time quotations are key to earning the trust of prospective customers for new clients; closely monitoring initial collections and deliveries at this business-critical time. In the coming weeks she gradually hands over operations to the depot’s staff, while remaining a dedicated contact for the account’s day-to-day functions. Bruce Macmillan commeted: “Alyson and the team at D73 are forwardthinking and passionate about their business as well as the Pall-Ex network. They treat and respect our members’ freight as if it was their own, and I’d like to extend my thanks to A.D.D. Express for their willingness to share the methods of their success, as well as for all of their continued hard work on behalf of the network.”
A.D.D. Express performs credit checks immediately and opens accounts on the day of application wherever possible, demonstrating its commitment, professionalism, and keenness to take responsibility for the new account.
The depot creates and maintains extensive customer profiles, which are essential in targeted sales and account management. At times, Alyson will seek an opportunity to handle part of a larger prospect’s freight distribution services. This creates an opportunity to build a rapport and showcase the depot’s abilities, often resulting in the gain of increased input from the customer. She is careful to make fully deliverable promises and never undertakes work in which any element could be left to chance. www.pallex.com
FASTLANE SPRING 2014
10
MEMBER NEWS
IT UPDATE
Pall-Ex receives royal thanks for £20,000 donation Pall-Ex has donated £20,000, raised during 2013 through its ‘Penny-aPallet’ scheme, to Carers Trust.
The initiative, devised by Hilary Devey, has been running since 1996 and sees one penny donated to charity for every pallet delivered through the Pall-Ex network.
for Carers Trust. This is a testament to the growth of the Pall-Ex network and the ever-increasing number of pallets successfully delivered across the UK and mainland Europe.”
A cheque was presented to the president of Carers Trust, HRH the Princess Royal, by Pall-Ex marketing director Jean-Paul Benizri, at the Carers Trust fundraising evening at London’s Claridge’s Hotel.
Alison Houghton, senior fundraising manager, Carers Trust added: “Pall-Ex’s support is vital in helping us to continue providing support to unpaid carers across the UK. We are extremely grateful to the whole team.”
“Carers Trust carries out vital work across the UK and it is a privilege to be in a position where we can donate such a large amount of money,” commented Hilary, who is vice-president of Carers Trust. “Pall-Ex’s ‘Penny-a-Pallet’ scheme grows in line with the business, allowing us to increase our donation year on year. To date, we have raised over £150,000
“
To date, Pall-Ex has raised over £150,000 for Carers Trust
Pall-Ex climbs a fundraising mountain for the Carers Trust As Fastlane went to print, Steve Underwood, long-serving health and safety manager at Pall-Ex’s Leicestershire hub, was poised to climb to the peak of Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. His high-altitude expedition is in aid of the Carers Trust, which assists and supports more than 450,000 unpaid carers throughout the UK. Hub staff undertook a fitness-focused fundraising mission, participating in a circuit training marathon and clocking up the kilometres at a treadmill desk, donated by Gymworld, which allowed them to burn calories by walking as they worked. To counter these healthy efforts, a bake-sale was held at the hub, raising a further £70.
Pall-Ex’s UK depots, including PPL (D91), PMB Pallets (D02), Young European (D55), Shears Bros (D56), Intercounty Distribution (D98), P2P (D90), Bowden Transport (D17), Bullet Express (D105), A.D.D. Express (D73), Cooperson Transport (D47), Pall-Ex South West (D10), Longs of Leeds (D03), and D Moody Haulage (D23), donated a fantastic £1,000 to the Carers Trust in support of Steve’s climb. Steve will fly the flag for Pall-Ex, unfurling a co-branded banner at the summit.
Show your support for the Carers Trust and make a donation at www.justgiving.com/ClimbKili-Steve
Next Fastlane: Summer 2014 News & feedback: contact Nicola Forman – PR and Marketing Assistant E: nforman@pallex.co.uk T: 01530 239079
11
...was a significant date in Pall-Ex’s IT diary Sean Sherwin-Smith, Group IT director
This was the date that Pall-Ex officially became a full, real-time proof of delivery (POD) network. While, of course, the network has had mobile POD solutions in place for a considerable length of time; there have occasionally been ‘gaps’ where agency staff were deployed to help maintain our highest services levels during volume spikes or holiday periods. During such times, in the mornings, for example, when depots are under pressure to push drivers and vehicles out on their rounds, time in which to train subcontracted staff in the use of a full PDA system can be extremely limited. This, in particular, is where our SMS POD system proves its considerable value. Pall-Ex’s new mobile system, which became mandatory on March 3rd, means that POD capture is now as simple as sending a text message. Depots and customers alike have commented on the positive impact our real-time POD is already having upon their businesses; with members fully supported and incentivised, ensuring the highest compliance possible. This POD positivity is not just making an impact in the UK. Pall-Ex has deployed mobile POD solutions across the entire Group’s operations; meaning that we are one of the few
www.pallex.com
exclusive logistics providers able to offer real-time POD to our customers across the whole continent. Another development over the last few months has been the introduction of enhanced functionality which allows users to scan and upload their customers’ own paperwork (COP) onto Pall-Ex’s core TWINE system. This allows the delivering depots to print COP notes (rather than standard TWINE delivery notes), and results in massively increased efficiency in the planning of deliveries as well as a huge boost in compliance and dramatically reduced customer invoicing queries across the network.
“
Finally... I am pleased to announce the appointment of a new member in the hub’s support team. Vijay Ponnapalli (pictured below) is a great asset to the department; bringing six years’ IT experience to his various help-desk, support and software testing roles.
Pall-Ex’s new mobile system means that POD capture is now as simple as sending a text message FASTLANE SPRING 2014
12
LEADERSHIP
Women at the top: Pall-Ex’s international female leadership The logistics sector is all too often perceived as a rough and tough man’s world and has often been cited as an industry lacking in gender diversity. However, when it comes to driving business forward, multi-talented women play a key role in Pall-Ex’s operations. Pall-Ex sets the standard when it comes to inspirational and talented female leadership. Fearless, skilled, and visible: Meet Pall-Ex’s international power-trio of female CEOs.
LEADERSHIP Hilary Devey CBE
Figurehead, chairman and CEO of the Pall-Ex Group, Hilary Devey is the awardwinning businesswoman and entrepreneur who established Pall-Ex in the UK in 1996. Raised in Bolton, she watched bailiffs empty the family home following the bankruptcy of her father’s central heating business, and decided that she would always strive for self-empowerment. After leaving school at 16, Hilary served in the Women’s Royal Air Force, before forging a seven-year career in the distribution sector and eventually deciding to found her own company. Single mother Hilary sold her house and car to obtain the capital necessary to launch Pall-Ex, which distributed 117 pallets on its first night of operations. Pall-Ex now has access to more than 7,500 trucks, 5 million square feet of warehousing and 100 depot locations throughout the UK. The
Melissa Alberti
Pall-Ex Group, with partners in Poland, Italy, Iberia, France and Romania, now commands revenues of £100 million.
Described as ‘an iron fist in a velvet glove’, Melissa Alberti is managing director of Pall-Ex Italia, and maintains that women at the top can ‘have it all’ if they strike the right balance.
Hilary has always campaigned for worthy causes. Vice president of the Carers Trust, in 2012 she launched Pall-Ex’s Penny-A-Pallet scheme, which generates a charitable contribution for every pallet processed by the Pall-Ex network.
Mother of two Melissa dedicates herself to business matters during the week, immersing herself in family life at the weekends.
Hilary has become a muchloved public figure through her appearance on British TV and is passionate in her support of ambition, entrepreneurship, and community spirit.
Melissa puts great emphasis on understanding the perspectives of others when doing business; but is never afraid to acknowledge her own instincts; commenting, “final decisions will ultimately be attributed to me; therefore, after weighing up the opinions of others, I always consult myself last of all.
Hilary is proud to be a role model, and advises budding entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams, commenting: “I am living proof that if you set your mind to doing something, anyone can achieve amazing results.”
“I always have my mind on the future. I have goals in sight for myself, my staff, and my company. But I am always ready to adjust my thinking. I don’t believe there is any goal which cannot be achieved.”
Melissa studied economics in Milan, developing a love of business before entering her family’s international transport business.
“
Next Fastlane: Summer 2014 News & feedback: contact Nicola Forman – PR and Marketing Assistant E: nforman@pallex.co.uk T: 01530 239079
Katarzyna Chabinka
Pall-Ex Polska’s CEO has no fear of challenges. Katarzyna Chabinka completed a degree in molecular biology before being persuaded to join a friend in his transport company. Recalling that, “there was simply no comparison”, she has never looked back. In 2002, Katarzyna launched her own company, KMC-Services Ltd. Starting out with five employees, Katarzyna made great progress. She recalls, “In the early days, I often came to work on Saturdays to clean the office!” Within a few years, Katarzyna’s company was Krakow’s leading logistics supplier, with more than 70 employees. She comments: “There were ups and downs; but setbacks only made me stronger and more determined to succeed. I learned from my mistakes and implemented solutions for the future development of the company.” In September 2013, KMC-Services launched its operations as Pall-Ex Polska. Katarzyna reports: “We are thrilled with our progress. There is huge potential for growth: our new services have been enthusiastically received and allow us to appeal to many new customers.
I am living proof that if you set your mind to doing something, anyone can achieve amazing results.
www.pallex.com
13
“I firmly believe in our joint vision of a pan-European Pall-Ex network. The foundations are in place and I am proud to be a catalyst for its rapid deployment.” Katarzyna admits that heading up an international logistics business requires sacrifices and can be unrelenting; but she welcomes the challenge.
“
There were ups and downs; but setbacks only made me stronger and more determined to succeed.
The mother of two adult daughters plans to establish a foundation for the protection of animals. A keen photographer, Katarzyna loves to travel and meet people, describing herself as 75 per cent Polish and 25 per cent a citizen of the world. She reflects: “Do I have any regrets? My response is an emphatic no! I love my life and honestly wouldn’t change a thing.”
FASTLANE SUMMER 2014
14
EUROPEAN EXPANSION
EUROPEAN EXPANSION
Impressive Group growth
New managing director for Pall-Ex France Pall-Ex France has appointed Christophe Poupart as its new managing director. Formerly sales director for one of the network’s largest founding members, Still International, Christophe has declared his ambition of processing 5,000 pallets per night within three years, and will participate in the hosting of Pall-Ex’s booth at SITL, Paris, from 1st to 4th April.
Pall-Ex Polska continues to embed itself in the marketplace, producing steady week-on-week volume growth.
28
The number of members that comprise Pall-Ex Romania. Growth doubled last year, demonstrating the commercial viability of Pall-Ex’s model in Eastern Europe.
Expansion: Europe Pall-Ex’s continental expansion continues, with talks with potential partners underway in Turkey and Scandinavia.
New figures show a pallet volume increase of 22 per cent across Pall-Ex’s European network. These Group-wide figures come as Pall-Ex’s European networks begin to reveal their individual results for 2013. The first to do this is Pall-Ex Iberia, which operates across mainland Spain, Portugal and the Balearics. As part of the network’s fifth convention of members, it was announced that Pall-Ex Iberia closed 2013 with an impressive turnover increase of 50 per cent, with membership up 20 per cent.
Pall-Ex Iberia’s 2014 forecasts show further predicted growth, with membership estimated to increase by 15 per cent and pallet volumes by 32 per cent. With considerable growth across the Group and several more European networks on the horizon, international traffic is set to increase dramatically. For Enric Estruch, managing director of PallEx Iberia, the outlook is optimistic: “There is a great appetitite for the transportation of palletised goods in Spain and Portugal, as well as in the rest of Europe. “Since our inception in June 2011, we have worked to strengthen and encourage our partners, continually improving the dynamics of the network and showing our members they are part of something special. It is an approach that is working and producing real benefits for everyone involved.”
ddd
Pall-Ex will be exhibiting at SITL: Europe’s key meeting place for Logistics and Transport professionals
24
24
1-4 April 2014 PARIS NORD VILLEPINTE HALL 6 FRANCE
Stand H66 9.00am - 6.00pm (5.00pm on Friday)
www.sitl.eu / info@sitl.eu
Next Fastlane: Summer 2014 News & feedback: contact Nicola Forman – PR and Marketing Assistant E: nforman@pallex.co.uk T: 01530 239079
Champions League
15
WIN £250 EVERY MONTH!
Join Pall-Ex’s Champions League! Open to all Pall-Ex members the name of the game is to grow your European pallet deliveries throughout 2014. PALLETS MAKE PRIZES! Win £250 every month until November!
01530 23 9065 marketing@pallex.com www.pallex.com The competition runs from1st February – 28nd November 2014
Pall-Ex has also fired up its brand-building campaign, aiming to establish new national partners in Bulgaria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic; where it is looking to strengthen links across Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkan region. Pall-Ex requires its new partner hubs to be centrally located, near to major arterial road infrastructures; which will allow the selected companies to attract a strong membership of hauliers, as well as to service their territories efficiently. Bulgaria benefits from five established and developing pan-European transport corridors; offering an ideal opportunity for a logistics provider to take Pall-Ex’s pioneering model to the next stage of growth. The pallet network will likewise provide a pioneering business model in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, where potential partners will be in a unique position to take advantage of the market with the efficiency of Pall-Ex partnership.
34%
The contribution made by Pall-Ex’s European mainland networks to the Group’s growing volumes.
www.pallex.com
Based on incremental growth not percentage growth (compared with previous 3 months)
Pall-Ex Italia delivers goodwill Pall-Ex Italia has distributed hundreds of survival packages to families and communities in need. The Kilometro Solidale initiative, created and promoted by Pall-Ex Italia and undertaken in collaboration with the Project Arca Foundation, provides on-going support to underprivileged people throughout Italy. Members of Pall-Ex Italia’s network were the driving force behind the initiative, inviting donations from their customers and distributing donations free of charge. Italian national rugby players Alessandro Zanni and Leondardo Ghiraldini, ambassadors of the project, personally delivered parcels; each containing produce including pasta, olive oil, bread and honey. Melissa Alberti, CEO of Pall -Ex Italia, explained that in a very short period of time the network was able to progress from its initial idea to nationwide action, and commented:
“We are proud of the meaningful results we have been able to deliver so far, and grateful for the dedication and generosity of our network as well as the many companies who gave donations and made this initiative such a resounding success. “The project allows us to assist families in poverty and makes a real difference in our communities. We hope we will be able to continue to make a difference in the coming years as our network continues to grow.”
FASTLANE SPRING 2014
Pall-Ex invites you to our annual charity golf day When: Thursday 5th June 2014 Where: The Belfry in Sutton Coldfield The Belfry is nestled in over 500 acres of beautiful countryside in the heart of England, ideally located 10 minutes away from Birmingham’s city centre. Package details: • • • • • •
Tea, coffee and bacon rolls on arrival 18 Holes on the PGA National Championship golf course Longest drive competition Nearest the pin competition Course guide 3 Course set dinner
For more information please contact Abby Sheldon: asheldon@pallex.com or 01530 23 9065
GOLF
Remember to bring two pairs of socks in case you get a hole in one!