For an organisation built on precision, partnership, and performance, “ON TARGET!” proved a fitting theme for the UPN Annual Awards 2025.
The United Pallet Network (UPN) palletised freight distribution network now connects and coordinates palletised freight movements between over 100 Team UPN partners. All partners, independent transport and logistics companies, link nationally through a highly reliable dedicated shared hub-and-spoke system.
The event at the East Midlands Conference Centre (EMCC) brought together members from across the UPN network for a celebration that combined competition, charity fundraising, recognition, and social connection.
In his welcome address, UPN Director Mark Drobka noted, “Tonight, we are coming together not just for an awards ceremony, but to celebrate the people, the depots, the partnerships, and indeed the friendships that make UPN unique in the UK pallet network sector.”
That sense of collective identity continues to play a central role in the organisation’s development and standing within the wider industry.
This year’s event introduced a new feature: a large-scale darts competition. The EMCC’s banqueting suite was reimagined as “Pallet Pally,” a nod to the iconic “Ally Pally” Alexander Palace Darts Venue.
Hosted by TalkSport and Sky TV Presenter Andy Goldstein and revered darts personality Bobby George – “The King of Bling” – Pallet Pally created an exciting backdrop for the inaugural Inter-Network Darts Championship.
Eight regional teams—the Southern Sharks, Northern Penguins, Wild Westerns, Central Cats, Celtic Eagles, Eastern Grizzlies, UPN VIPs, and UPN Night Owls—competed in knockout rounds, supported by a hugely enthusiastic audience. The competition concluded with Leanne Hunter of the Northern Region securing the title.
While the darts element added entertainment and friendly rivalry, the core focus of the evening remained the UPN Member Awards, recognising operational excellence, reliability, and collaboration across the network. The awards acknowledged the efforts and achievements of both individuals and depots.
The event also highlighted the network’s charitable commitment. A raffle and auction raised more than £17,000 for three selected UPN charities: The Youth Sport Trust, St Giles Hospice, and the Alzheimer’s Society—the latter nominated by the 2024 UPN Members Depot of the Year, Liam Connolly Road Freight.
Following the awards and competition, guests continued the celebrations with live music from the fabulous Club Orchestra band.
The 2025 event was supported by sponsorship from several UPN suppliers, including TRL, Everywhen, Aganto, Carbon Neutral Britain, Olcan Digital Marketing, and production partners White Label.
Reflecting on the evening, Managing Director David Brown commented, “This year’s Awards Night wasn’t just ‘On Target’, it hit the Bullseye. It showcased everything that makes UPN exceptional: our people, our passion, and our commitment to excellence.”
Overall, the event demonstrated strong engagement across the network and reflected UPN’s continued focus on community, performance, and shared success as it heads into the year ahead. upn.co.uk
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