A major force in palletised distribution
October 10th 2007 PalletFORCE is one of the fastest-growing palletised distribution networks in the UK, with over 95 shareholder member depots across the UK, who combined have over 3,000 vehicles, and more than 4 million sq. ft. of warehousing.
The Network’s strategically-located depots around the country serviced by the central hub in Lichfield, together handle over 7,300 pallets per night.
According to PalletFORCE’s Business Development Director, Alan Cooke, the future looks promising for PalletFORCE, and for palletised distribution as a whole. “The sector has got second wind after a slight downturn last year and we are experiencing year-onyear monthly increases of 20-30% over 2006 pallet numbers.
Although this growth looks set to last for the foreseeable future, Alan nonetheless advises caution. “To facilitate growth at that rate will present a huge challenge – and there is always the possibility that the market might flatten at any moment. Growth must be managed - not overcooked.”
Recently, PalletFORCE has expanded into a fourth warehouse located at its Lichfield hub, creating a total space of 210,000 sq ft and a capacity of 10,500 pallets per night.
Investment in specialist software has enabled the Network to simulate a virtual hub in order to maximise the benefits of this expansion. The strongest opportunities exist for the bigger players in the market “The size of the market does not depend on the amount of business available, but is controlled by there being a finite number of quality transport companies,” comments Alan “If the number decreases, then inevitably the best transport companies will want to ensure that they are in the best networks”
“PalletFORCE defines strength not simply by volume, but on the longer-lasting benefits brought by attention to service levels Excellent Service is paramount within our industry and by delivering a quality network with consistently high standards we are in a strong position to retain and grow our membership base”
Unlike most other networks, PalletFORCE is owned by its members, creating an unrivalled commitment to quality and service. During the past year, PalletFORCE has significantly strengthened its membership in line with its consolidation strategy, in order to improve service levels and the long-term stability of the Network. An intense period of recruitment has seen 17 new Shareholder Members join during the past year 18 months.
In addition, PalletFORCE knows that it cannot rest on its laurels but is always seeking to expand its business into new areas that will provide added value to Members and their end users. Recent investment in state-of-theart check-weighing systems, for example, has made the Network well prepared for full implementation of its innovative IT track and trace system happening later this year. In short, after six years and nearly six million pallets, PalletFORCE has proved itself to be one of the palletised distribution sector’s greatest successes, and is well placed to develop further. “It’s all about maintaining service level and stability, and successfully managing growth, “concludes Alan Cooke “Get those right and profitability isn’t a problem.”
For further information, please contact:- Trevor Mudd, Executive Sales & Marketing Manager, PalletFORCE plc, Hangar 15, Gorse Lane, Fradley Park, Lichfield, WS13 8EN. More articles from PalletFORCE plc: | 
