Palletline PLC, the UK’s premier palletised distribution network, has officially launched its new Scottish hub based in Cumbernauld, Lanarkshire. Opened by Keith Brown, Scottish Transport Minister, the new hub is set to become the nexus for Scottish freight.
“Pallet volumes in Scotland have been increasing for some time, representing a significant boost for the economy,” said Kevin Buchanan, Managing Director of Palletline. “The surge has been powered by the many businesses which rely on cost-effective, efficient transport of their goods – delivered by dedicated Scottish distributors.”
During the last two years, five new member companies have joined Palletline, which is renowned both sides of the border for quality, reliability and customer service. Many of the Scottish member companies have more than doubled their volumes in less than 12 months after taking advantage of the newfound efficiencies and business opportunities afforded by membership.
The Cumbernauld site is an important addition to Palletline’s network, joining existing hubs in Manchester and London and a central Birmingham hub.
“We’ve long been committed to investing in our Scottish operation and growing our membership with some of the country’s finest distributors. Now our Scottish members will be able to consolidate freight in Scotland rather than transporting the additional miles to our other hubs,” said Kevin.
“The new hub will save time and money, and increase the availability of members’ fleets for additional jobs -not to mention reducing emissions. In addition, customer service will be enhanced for all Scottish customers, who can now take advantage of next day delivery to and from Ireland.
Kevin added: “The move will be particularly valuable for member companies serving the more distant Highlands and Islands locations, improving competiveness.”
Keith Brown, Transport Minister, said: “I am delighted to be opening this new facility, the first of its kind which will make Cumbernauld a freight gateway in and out of Scotland for hundreds and thousands of pallets every year.
“This is a fine example of investment by the freight industry in infrastructure which will improved the efficiency of freight movements and offer a valuable service to Scottish businesses. The overall project will save several million road miles a year, as freight will now come direct to Cumbernauld instead of going via Birmingham or Manchester.
“I congratulate all of those involved and wish them every success for the future.”
Palletline is targeting 100% growth of inter-Scottish freight volumes over the next 12 months. The network expects to transport more than a quarter of a million pallets per annum via the Scottish hub by the end of 2013.
Currently celebrating its 20th anniversary, Palletline revolutionised the market by creating an innovative ‘hub and spoke’ based system – meaning that all freight to be transported outside of a distributor’s local area is consolidated and sent to a central point before delivery to the customer. This model creates significant operational and environmental efficiencies, and reduces the cost of transporting smaller palletised shipments long distances – ensuring it remains the industry benchmark today.
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