Logistics

James Hall & Co invests £200k in logistics operation

New forklifts and picking trucks have been bought as part of a replacement programme to help bolster manual handling operations.

James Hall & Co, Spar UK’s primary wholesaler and distributor for the North of England, has invested in new forklifts and picking trucks at its Preston-based Spar distribution centre.

Three new Linde R20 forklift trucks have been purchased on a replacement programme helping support the 15-strong fleet in the ambient warehouse. They have the capability to lift loads of 2,500kg with a reach of up to 11m in height.

Linde have also supplied the business with six new N20 front-facing picking trucks for the ambient warehouse as part of the 30-strong fleet, bringing the new total investment cost to approximately £200,000.

On average, a forklift truck will travel 90 miles and a picking truck 75 miles each week around the ambient warehouse and they are operational across a 24-hour period.

The trucks are fitted with exchange batteries that enable them to be operational continuously, and the front-facing picking trucks have improved comfort and efficiency for operators, while providing them with increased vision, leading to fewer impacts and damage.

James Hall & Co serves a network of 600 independent Spar retailers and company-owned Spar stores six days a week.

Les Abbott, warehouse manager at James Hall & Co, said: “We have held a relationship with Linde for 12 years now as our main manual handling equipment provider and we continue to invest in the highest quality equipment to enhance the business’ efficiency.

“Our ambient warehouse is an exceptionally busy place, and we need vehicles that we can rely on. We are very pleased with the nine new additions to our fleet, and they have helped strengthen our operation.”