Quote Unquote – David Rose, Sales Director, The Alternative Pallet Company

WLN – What’s the most exciting thing about your job?

I love the varied businesses we speak with and I never know what type of business is going to telephone in next! I’m new to this industry and really had no comprehension of how many companies use pallets – they’re everywhere!

WLN – Who’s inspired you most in your career?

A bit of a marmite answer this one. Steve Jobs. Not that I’ve met him of course, but I admire anyone who has the gumption to set up a business from an idea. His relentless passion for quality as well is something we can all learn from.

WLN – If you were an item in a warehouse, what would you be?

A Pallite® of course!

WLN – If you had to do it all over again, what would you do different?

Taken more risks. I think we’re all conditioned to not make mistakes these days and that’s not good for business. Anyone or any company that hasn’t made mistakes haven’t pushed their boundaries – and without sounding like a training book, we only develop if we bump the kerb a few more times and take some more risks.

WLN – What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you at work?

I can’t put in writing what ‘the’ most embarrassing thing is, but probably one of those ‘red face’ moments came where I was in a meeting with Pizza Hut (when I was working in a Sales & Marketing Agency) for the first time, pitching my business and the lady we were presenting to had a very distinctive German accent. I wanted to show her how observant I was and said “Oh, I was born in Germany (which is true), where in Germany are you from?” She then turned round and said “I’m Dutch and have no fond feelings for the Germans!”

We didn’t win the business.

WLN – Who or what makes you laugh?

Blackadder… David Brent… my eight year old daughter.

WLN – Do you have any hidden talents?

No hidden ones – if I have a talent, I tend to show as many people as possible!

WLN – Who would be your favourite party guest?

David Attenborough – I imagine he’s got some amazing stories about his travels and experiences. Or maybe Karl Pilkington?!

WLN – What is the greatest luxury in your life?

My new golf Driver! Sad isn’t it, but I recently won it in a competition and I love it!

WLN – What is your favourite guilty pleasure?

Bacon… or golf… or both.

WLN – Do you have any secret ambitions?

I’d love to be a mystery shopper, mystery shopping holiday destinations, hotels and airlines! I have a thing about bad service.

WLN – What’s your dream holiday destination?

New Zealand – been there once for a month and loved it. You’re not more than half an hour from the sea, or mountains, or anything that isn’t rugged nature!

WLN – What are your three favourite movies of all time?

Jaws, There’s Something About Mary and An American Werewolf in London.

WLN – What is your favourite book of all time?

The Afghan by Frederick Forsyth – thrilling read and couldn’t put the book down.

WLN – What’s your favourite pastime?

Other than going on holiday and spending time with my family… golf of course!

WLN – If you won the Lottery, what would you do?

Spoil the people I’d want to spoil… travel… see the world… and then maybe set up a business that prepares youngsters for life in the big bad world of business!

WLN – What would be your advice to someone thinking about coming into the industry (apart from “don’t do it”)?

Do it! The world would come to a standstill without logistics and warehouses. There can’t be many industries that are pretty much time proof? With people wanting more products faster than they’ve ever wanted them before, the future of this industry surely has to look good, doesn’t it?!

The Alternative Pallet Company

The Alternative Pallet Company manufacture (in the UK) the Pallite®, a robust and ultra-lightweight alternative pallet made from fibreboard, which is available in Euro, UK standard and bespoke sizes.

We understand that wood has a place in the supply chain, but we also know customers want to reduce the impact wood has in their supply chain.

The Pallite is made predominantly from recycle paper and glue, is totally recyclable, strong enough to hold 750kg of load yet only weighs between 5kg and 9kg yet contains no nails or splinters – so is a lot more hygienic and safer than wood! No brainer.