Haulier of the Year

Boughey Distribution has enjoyed a dynamic year which has included a strong financial performance, the launch of a series of colleague welfare initiatives and a commitment to applying for B Corp certification.

Boughey operates 140 vehicles and 250 trailers, and manages 1.1 million sq ft of ambient warehousing at its sites in Nantwich and Crewe. With particular expertise in the ambient grocery sector, the company provides storage, distribution and specialist valued-added services to the food industry including consolidation, e-fulfilment and contract packing.

Our judges said: “Impressive improvement in profitability together with a commitment to the environment with the experiment with electric trucks.

“A strong commitment to environmental goals and employee engagement, Boughey is clearly a business with high standards.”

Browns Distribution offers comprehensive solutions across every facet of the distribution supply chain. Browns’ forward-thinking team has been pushing the boundaries of road haulage and pallet distribution since 1955. Welcoming of change and embracing of technology, Browns consistently strives to improve and evolve with the ever-changing industry landscape.

Our judges said: “Impressive growth in profitability and an innovative approach to driver recruitment and retention. A good well-run business at the start of a threeyear journey. Favourable customer testimonials from a varied range of clients and product types state reliability, accountability and care with a personal touch.”

Goldstar is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023, growing from a modest courier service to become one of the most prominent operators in the commercial airfreight transport sector.

Throughout this growth, the business has retained its core values and operates on a partnership approach with its customers and team members. This has been at the heart of its financial success.

Our judges said: “An outstanding example of adaptability and resilience over the last three years. With the collapse of the airfreight sector Goldstar was able to deliver a 65% increase in turnover and 163% increase in profitability over three years through the development of new customer relationships. In addition it achieved an amazing 10% reduction in CO2 emissions.”

Thanks to a forward-thinking strategy and willingness to diversify, Stephen Sanderson Transport has thrived during recent times of unprecedented instability.

Attaining BRCGS AA accreditation has provided access to the food and drinks distribution sector, and has created a positive impact across the whole business. Sanderson’s entire transport operation has moved to a new, state-of the-art site, enhancing its fully integrated customer offering and improving staff welfare.

Our judges said: “A new site coupled with maintenance of high service levels produced above average profitability. [This is] a family-orientated business that gives great service and recognises its responsibility in the community. It has the desire to be here in years to come, a sound financial case and continually invests in the future.”

Macroeconomic disruptions continued to amplify pressure across the haulage market during 2022 as demand from end consumers on delivery increased disproportionately to available resources.

Walkers’ long-standing strategy in serving a highly diversified customer base and premium service positioning provided operational resilience against the impact of industry pressures, and in particular, the e-commerce boom.

Its highly developed operational IT capabilities, combined with its 17-strong team of professional customer service advisors, ensure Walkers provides superior service.

Our judges said: “Positive testimonials giving a strong indication of excellent customer service. Strong commercial strategies in place to embrace the challenges in the future and maintain customer relationships.”

Willmotts Transport, part of the Stotts Group, has grown substantially in recent years and is now seen as a premier BRCGS-certified warehousing and distribution business in the South West.

Despite difficult trading conditions, Willmotts has driven consistently high performance in growth, investment and customer service across every area of its operations, developing a portfolio of transport solutions.

Our judges said: “Significant improvement in turnover and profitability in a turbulent and complex market sector. A proactive response to the driver shortage together with continued investment in staff welfare. A good haulier in all aspects.

“Positive customer testimonials evidencing personal relationships.Working with external partners to build a workable path to carbon net zero and clear working practices to reduce environmental impact. Exceptional financial performance year on year and a very clear focus on safety and compliance.”