Transport & Logistics Issue 154

cover154.qxp_Layout 1 16/01/2015 12:55 Page 1

ISSUE 154

TRANSPORT &LOGISTICS T H E

I N D U S T R Y

F O R WA R D

ISSUE 154

D R I V I N G

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

PRESTON BUS THE NETWORK FOR YOUR CITY

Page 60

e: d i s n i Also

UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK Page 10

MASSEY BROTHERS FEEDS Page 84

man financial services Page 78

PLUS: EAST LOTHIAN COUNCIL

Project3_feature 2 08/01/2015 15:25 Page 1

page 1 editor comment.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 10:13 Page 1

DOES SIZE MATTER? MASSIVE CONTAINER SHIP WOWS ONLOOKERS IN FELIXSTOWE his month’s biggest story has size on its side for more than one reason. The

T

Chinese-owned CSCL Globe, a grand container ship longer than London’s The Shard is tall, arrived in Felixstowe carrying a whopping 19,100 containers.

PUBLISHER: Noah Quirke GROUP EDITOR: Daniel Stephens EDITOR: Ciaran Jarosz MAGAZINE MANAGER: Shane Kelly

The sight of this huge carrier is important for a number of reasons. Not only does it represent a first for the UK but it is important economically, the direct call recognising the scale of the UK economy. The economies of scale provide the most efficient way to get UK exports to important Asian markets.

The CSCL Globe is so huge its capacity could include enough items for every sin-

FEATURE MANAGERS: Stefan Drakes Eddie Hunt Will Hewitt

gle person in the UK to have at least one. The containers can carry a total of 57,000

ART DIRECTOR: Steve Williams

electrical goods and furniture. Fully-laden, the ship can carry 156 million pairs of

ART EDITOR: Stacey Brewer DESIGNER: Carla Taylor CONTRIBUTORS: Jeff Senior

tonnes of cargo and on its maiden voyage the ship transported food, drink, clothing, shoes or 300 million tablet computers. Four thousand containers were unloaded at Felixstowe during its recent visit.

Built by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea, the massive carrier’s size is equivalent to four football pitches and weighs 184,000 tonnes. Its length measures

PRODUCTION: Vicki Lindsay Lisa Pollinger

1,312ft, a quarter of the mile give or take. The ship has now been restocked with

ADMINISTRAT0R: Lisa Barrans

Hamburg and Zeebrugge in Belgium.

ACCOUNTS: Nick Charalambous Transport & Logistics Magazine is published by: NQ Publishing, 6th Floor, Crown House Southgate, Huddersfield HD1 1DE Tel: +44 (0)1484 437300 E-mail: noah.quirke@nqpublishing.com www.tandlonline.com Transport & Logistics Magazine is published by NQ Publishing.

Company registered in England & Wales. All material is the copyright of NQ Publishing. All rights reserved. Transport & Logistics Magazine is the property of NQ Publishing. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form whole or part without the written permission of a director of NQ Publishing.

Liability: while every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of information herein, or any consequence arising from it. In the case of company or product reviews or comments, these have been based upon the true and honest opinion of the Editor at the time of going to press.

www.tandlonline.com

export goods from the UK and will return to the Far East after stops at Rotterdam, I joined a huge gathering of spectators at the Port of Felixstowe to watch the CSCL dock at the port’s deep-water berths eight and nine around lunchtime on Wednesday January 7th. It was an awesome sight, there’s no doubt about that. It’s also a major coup for the port.

Paul Davey, from the Port of Felixstowe, told me: “We've had the largest ships in the world before, but the ships keep getting bigger and keep choosing the Port of Felixstowe as their UK port of call, which is good news for us. It's also good news for the thousands of people in Suffolk who make their living in the transport industry.”

DANIEL STEPHENS GROUP EDITOR

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

1

contents 154.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:03 Page 2

CONTENTS

INSIDE SECTIONS NEWS

4

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET

10

NATIONAL CARBON EMISSIONS REVIEW

52

WASTE AND RECYCLING

58

BUS AND COACH

60

HIRE & LEASING

72

CARGO 2000 (C2K)

82

AGRICULTURAL

84

AWARDS

88

LOOKING FORWARD...

96

10

UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK

FEATURES News The latest top stories

4

United Aftermarket Network Everthing we do is black and white

10

GROUPAUTO The building blocks of success

28

Kuehne + Nagel Gold Standard

52

CIWM Support, develop, influence

58

Preston Bus The network for your city

60

Horseman Coaches Growth inspiring workforce

64

A.C Williams Coaches Attentive, cost effective travel

66

Moffat & Williamson Over 65 years of success

68

R. Robertsons Driven by experience

70

BVRLA Promoting responsible road transport

72

Northgate Vehicle Hire Redefining the van hire market

74

MAN Financial Services Proud funder and supporter of MAN Truck and Bus

78

IATA C2K - More relevant today than ever

82

Massey Feeds Feeding the Masseys

84

Drysdale Freight Award winning service

88

East Lothian Council Above and beyond

92

Looking Forward...

Skylon

96

Follow us on

88

DRYSDALE FREIGHT @TandLMagazine 2

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

contents 154.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:03 Page 3

CONTENTS

52

KUEHNE + NAGEL

66

A C WILLIAMS COACHES

60

PRESTON BUS

84

MASSEY FEEDS

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

3

154 news.qxp_feature 2 08/01/2015 11:39 Page 4

NEWS

BOEING ON A ROLL WITH 777F ORDERS

Boeing announced an order for six 777 freighters from an “unidentified customer” on Jan. 6. Cargo Facts, the sister publication to Air Cargo World, has speculated that the purchaser may be a lessor. (See Cargo Facts for an in-depth discussion of possible "mystery freighter" customers.) In addition, Qatar Airways has finalized an order for four 777Fs, valued at US$1.24 billion at current list prices. Qatar also has purchased rights for four additional aircraft, which, when exercised, will bring the combined value of the order to US$2.46 billion. The news is especially good for Boeing, considering that it needs to keep its 777 production line moving while potential customers consider delaying their purchases until the upgraded 777X model becomes available, perhaps as late as 2020. The 777F configuration – a far more fuel-

efficient option for carriers wishing to replace their aging, four-engined 747 gas-guzzlers – is an efficient way for Boeing to keeps its current 777 slots filled without cutting into future 777X sales, Cargo Facts said. Qatar Airways, the state-owned flag carrier, first announced its intent to order the four 777Fs at the 2014 Farnborough Airshow. Currently, Qatar Airways operates a fleet of thirty-seven 777-300ERs and 777200LRs, in addition to seven 777Fs. "We aim to make Qatar Airways one of the world's major air cargo players," said His Excellency Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways. Global air freight traffic is forecast to grow at an annual rate of 4.7 percent, doubling the amount of cargo traffic over the next 20 years, according to the Boeing World Air Cargo Forecast, released in October.

CUT DRINK LIMIT FOR LORRY DRIVERS

Scotland's tough new drink driving limit should be lowered even further for commercial drivers, according to an SNP MSP. The limit was reduced to 50mg per 100ml of blood last month, lower than the UK standard of 80mg but in line with other European countries.

But SNP MSP Christian Allard has called on the Scottish Government to lower it to 30mg for drivers of large goods vehicles or public transport.

Around one in ten deaths on

4

Scotland's roads involve drivers who are over the legal alcohol limit, he said.

"Large vehicles can cause catastrophic damage if they are involved in a collision, so we rightly require a greater standard of training from the people who drive them," he said.

"An LGV or a bus is the last thing that someone with any trace of alcohol in their system should be driving, so we should apply the same principle and lower the limit for people driving such vehicles even further.

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

THE HEAVIES 2015: CALL FOR ENTRIES The heavy haulage and abnormal load industry has only a few weeks left to enter The Heavies, its version of the Oscars.

Run in association with the Heavy Transport Association (HTA), The Heavies will reward those organisations (from sole traders to the very largest) making a significant contribution to the heavy haulage industry.

Operators, escort providers,

manufacturers and suppliers can all enter.

The black tie ceremony takes place on 27 March in Hangar 42 at Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground in Lutterworth, Leicestershire.

It will be hosted by motoring journalist and FairFuelUK campaigner Quentin Willson.

All interested parties should visit theheavies.co.uk for more info.

www.tandlonline.com

154 news.qxp_feature 2 08/01/2015 11:39 Page 5

NEWS LARGEST CARGO SHIP ARRIVES IN BRITISH PORT The world’s largest cargo ship has arrived at a British port for the first time.

The CSCL Globe is more than 400m long and carries around 19,000 containers on each voyage.

It is longer from bow to stern than the Shard skyscraper in London is tall.

The ship arrived at the port of Felixstowe at around 12.30 GMT yesterday. Spectators on the Suffolk shoreline watched the ship dock.

Registered in Hong Kong, the CSCL Globe left on its maiden voyage from the port of Qingdao in China in midDecember 2014.

It displaces 186,000 tonnes of water and was constructed by the South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries.

The ship is owned by China Shipping Container Line, commonly known as CSCL, and was ordered in May 2013 along with four other similar capacity

ships at a cost of around £463 million A port official watches as the CSCL Globe docks at the port of Felixstowe A port official watches as the CSCL Globe docks at the port of Felixstowe The vessel breaks the previous record for the largest ship at Felixstowe, which was won by the 18,000-container Maersk Triple-E in November.

The giant ship isn’t expected to hold the title for long: an even larger vessel, the MSC Oscar, is set to dock in Felixtowe sometime in the next few months, according to BBC News.

The Oscar is capable of carrying 120 more containers, the standard measurement of container ship size, though it is actually slightly shorter in length than the CSCL Globe.

Two new deep-water berths were opened in Felixstowe’s port in 2011 at a cost of £300m.

STEP INTO THE FUTURE OF LOGISTICS & SUPPLY CHAIN Access has launched two new white papers looking into how converging trends are shaping the future of logistics and strategic supply chain developments.

'Step into the future of logistics' examines how current trends are changing logistics. E-commerce has significant implications for warehouse and fulfilment systems.

Social media has undermined demand, and therefore production, forecasting and dramatically shortened product life cycles.

Competition is now based on service levels, and in particular the speed and accuracy of execution of fulfilment.

This is driving change in warehouse location, space requirements for new activities and technology. For warehouse systems, the new environment has suddenly become much more complex.

The second white paper: 'Step into the future of supply chain', takes in

www.tandlonline.com

the implications of trends such as near sourcing manufacturing, Corporate Social Responsibility, the 'Internet of Things' and a move to value delivery systems with organisations using social media to better manage forecasting, inventory and service as well as provide greater supply chain transparency.

Ian Roper, Director of Access, said: "Supply chains will need all the flexibility and adaptability they can muster to cope with emerging trends, with implications both for physical operations and the systems that support them."

He added: "Future warehouse systems will be an autonomous part of a much wider supply chain 'metasystem'. Through seamless integration with these systems, a warehousing system will 'know' everything. While we can't know the future of innovation, it is good practice to make logistics as device independent as possible."

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

5

154 news.qxp_feature 2 08/01/2015 11:39 Page 6

NEWS

CO-OPERATIVE OFFERS DRIVING LESSONS The Co-operative will begin to offer targeted online driving lessons for young drivers, based on their telematics data.

Customers who log onto their online 'Young Driver' dashboard will be targeted with training modules that correlate to feedback from their own driving data, collected by The Co-operative’s smart boxes.

The move to use telematics data not only to drive down costs but to actively change driver behaviour is an industry first and has been congratulated by national road safety charity Brake, which said: “Brake fully supports the use of telematics as an incredibly useful tool for measuring performance and helping to create safer drivers. The next step for telematics is training which creates behavioural change, and we are delighted to support the innovative system developed by The Co-operative and e-merge safer drivers.”

The firm claims 60,000 young drivers have installed black boxes as part of the insurer’s ‘pay-as-youdrive’ scheme since 2011, allowing them to improve their driving and reduce their insurance premiums.

The Co-operative Insurance telematics lead said: “With thousands of drivers already improving their driving and reducing their premiums by using our telematics technology. We believe that the modules will accelerate these benefits by providing additional tools to help our customers continuously improve their driving skills.”

Logistic firms and construction suppliers including Travis Perkins have reported a reduction in accidents after installing smart boxes into their fleets.

Many insurers are offering telematics technology however telecoms and car manufacturers are also hoping it will become a new revenue stream. BMW announced the first factory-fitted smart box to offer driver’s insurance premiums based on their usage and today Ford launched a pilot of its ‘Data Driven Driving’ arm in London.

The carmaker will allow drivers to check their usage, car health and fuel levels remotely through a smartphone app. Data pulled off smart boxes could be used to assist urban planning, Ford said.

CHINA SLOWDOWN CREATING FREIGHT UNCERTAINTY A slowing Chinese economy is creating uncertainty for shipping demand, but emerging and developing economies will boost markets in 2015 and advanced economies are set to stay on track to recovery, according to one leading analyst.

Peter Sand, chief shipping analyst at Bimco, said China’s “soft landing” would cause trading “turbulence”, not least because some indicators suggested official GDP data may not be revealing the true economic picture. But he said growth in emerging markets and developing economies would improve to 5% this year from 4.4% in 2014, while advanced economies were likely to see GDP growth accelerate to 2.3% in 2015 compared to 1.8% in 2014.

6

“The common challenges remain poor inflation expectations, a lack of structural reforms and lack of job creation,” he said. “There is clearly room for more political initiatives in 2015 to support the global economy.”

Bimco expects container ships to continue to get bigger this year, while the overall fleet will grow at its “new normal” level of around 6%. As a result, keeping a lid on freight rate volatility will require careful management of supply by lines.

“During peak season (in 2014), the steep drop in freight rates on the Far East to Europe trade lane made it clear that the utmost care is constantly required for the supply side while the introduction of ever-larger ships continues.”

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

154 news.qxp_feature 2 08/01/2015 11:39 Page 7

NEWS

UPS WORLDWIDE EXPRESS FREIGHT EXPANDS UPS have announced the expansion of its UPS Worldwide Express Freight service in 12 new origin and nine new destination countries for urgent, time-sensitive and high-value international heavyweight shipments. UPS now offers the guaranteed service – perfect for product launches, inventory shortages or equipment failure replacement parts – to 50 origin and 51 destination countries and territories.

Countries adding origin service include: Chile, Greece, Indonesia, Israel, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Slovakia, Turkey and Vietnam.

Countries adding destination service include: Chile, Indonesia, Israel, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Vietnam.

The service offers faster guaranteed palletized shipments, over 150 lbs. (70 kg.), in more

SCRAP OLD SHIPS TO IMPROVE RATES Shipping firms must scrap old ships and embrace private equity investors to succeed in 2015, an industry specialist has claimed.

Richard Greiner, shipping partner at adviser Moore Stephens, said the industry needs to adopt a “can-do attitude” to overcome a collapse in confidence which hit a two-year low at the end of 2014.

www.tandlonline.com

He said overtonnaging was “top of the list” of things that the shipping can change in order to improve slumping freight rates.“Accelerated scrapping is needed, together with an acknowledgement that there are already too many ships on the market and that, absent some form of rationalisation, freight rates will not pay the bills,” he said.

lanes than any other carrier. Delivery is door-todoor and day-definite, with customs brokerage service included. Saturday deliveries are available to select U.S. and Canadian postal codes.

“UPS can help make growing internationally easier with solutions like this urgent air freight offering,” said Nick Basford, UPS vice president of international marketing. “Worldwide Express Freight helps customers get everything, from parts to finished goods, to more destinations fast, enabling businesses of all sizes to better compete on a global scale.”

UPS Worldwide Express Freight service offers many of the same features as UPS’s Worldwide Express package service, including automated shipment preparation, online tracking and proactive notification technology. In addition, both express freight and package shipments are consolidated into one bill.

EMIRATES’ RETURN TO ALL-IN PRICING In a move generally applauded as overdue by many freight forwarders, Emirates’ SkyCargo freight division said it will return to a simplified “all-in” rate structure that eliminates the addition of various surcharges for fuel, security and other variables.

According to a letter sent to its customers on Dec. 31, 2014, SkyCargo said the single-charge

structure would begin Feb. 1 for airfreight shipments to and from Europe and March 1 for all other Emirates flights. The single fee, SkyCargo said, would be based on weight and would include fuel and security fees folded into one price. Along with added fuel and security fees, the new policy would also eliminate surcharges for other criteria, such as volume.

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

7

rif_feature 2 15/05/2014 10:36 Page 67

blackhouse jones 154.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 06:29 Page 9

LEGAL LOGISTICS

REFRESH YOUR MEMORY FINANCIAL STANDING CRITERIA – 2015 LEVELS

REVISED CRITERIA APPLIES TO EXISTING HAULAGE, BUS AND COACH OPERATORS AND NEW APPLICANTS.

S

tandard national and international licence applicants will be required to demonstrate £7000 (previously £7400) for the first vehicle and £3900 (previously £4100) for each additional vehicle they request to be authorised. Operators making variation applications will be required to demonstrate financial standing for their existing fleet and any additional authorisation against the new levels.

Any applicant or licence holder appearing at Public Inquiry before a Traffic Commissioner after 1 January 2015, where additional evidence of financial standing is requested, will be required to satisfy the new levels.

There is no change to the rates of finance which must be available to support a restricted licence or application: £3100 for the first vehicle and £1700 for each additional authorised vehicle.

The Senior Traffic Commissioner’s statutory guidance document on finance has been also amended to reflect the new rates.

The guidance indicates that where a standard licence holder cannot demonstrate financial standing, Regulation (EC) 1071/2009 allows (but does not require) the Traffic Commissioner to provide a period of time to rectify the situation. The operator may be given a limited time to make written representations before the Traffic Commissioner decides whether to allow time for rectification and for what period by way of a notice served under the legislation.

The financial limits set by EU Regulation 1071/2009 are 9000 euros for the first vehicle and 5000 euros for each subsequent vehicle. For member states not participating in monetary union, the regulation requires the equivalent in their currencies to be revised every year, using the euro exchange rate published in the Official Journal of the European Union on the first working day of October in the previous year.

For all related enquiries regarding Public Inquiries, defence of prosecutions, Drivers Hours, please contact Backhouse Jones on 08450 575 111 or email julia.davies@backhouses.co.uk www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

9

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 10

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK

EVERYTHING WE DO IS...

BLACK AND WHITE. United Aftermarket Network are currently celebrating a decade of success as of the most professional buying groups in the automotive industry 10

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 11

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

11

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 12

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 13

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK roviding distributors with the best possible purchasing terms from OE-quality suppliers, United Aftermarket Network (UAN) is an extensive and comprehensive buying group with the capacity to support distributors with greater, collective purchasing power and the benefits associated with economies of scale. Through liaising closely with reputable suppliers and buyers with great buying potential, UAN secures a prosperous future for the UK aftermarket through supporting the endeavours of all those operating within the aftermarket sector.

Established in 2004 by Andrew and Rachael Dickinson, UAN was established to meet the growing need for a different type of buying group within the automotive aftermarket.

Initially founded in modest circumstance, being a home-run operation with just two laptops, UAN serves as evidence of the potential for innovative entrepreneurs, such as Andrew and Rachael and the success that can be reaped given the correct expertise, hard work and ingenuity: “It was a difficult time to start off, but as it grew we began to see what it could become... the thought that it would be a company with a collective turnover of over 1bn – we'd have just laughed,” reminisced Andrew.

Being a response to the needs and advice of key market players and industry experts, UAN has enjoyed great success and has developed a tried and tested reputation for providing the most mutually beneficial supply agreements for some of the best brands, suppliers and buyers

P

within the sector and boasts a network of over 140 distributors and 200 branches throughout the nation.

UAN collects, administers and delivers supplier purchasing rebates with competitive pricing and rebates to increase distributor profitability alongside additional profit-boosting services such as: a centralised marketing programme to develop and support promotional strategies, promotion of distributor independence within the UAN umbrella, experienced field-based support and expertise and further supportive serv-

ices from an array of high class and reputable “Service providers” for the sector. In addition, UAN also ensures the highest standard of supplies and only the best brands for buyers, allowing such organisations to get the most reliable and quality branded goods within budget.

Right from the start, UAN has defined itself through a simple and clean market approach, preaching a “Black and white” philosophy and complete transparency in everything that it does. In addition to distributor contracts laid out to ensure minimum commitment periods of

RIGHT FROM THE START, UAN HAS DEFINED ITSELF THROUGH A SIMPLE AND CLEAN MARKET APPROACH 6 months which, coupled with transparency efforts allows security and stability for UAN suppliers and allows for sustained levels of business opportunity. Through the establishment of a market-leading rebate collection scheme established in 2012 and unusually long-term contract agreements with suppliers, UAN has since been able to extend that level of security and reassure both suppliers and distributors keen to make projections and ensure that their needs are met.

UAN Rebate and Marketing, which was launched in 2012 serves as the centralised infrastructure for rebate collections from approve suppliers and allows for distributors to more accurately identify specific benefits within sup-

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

13

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 14

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK plier agreements and UAN membership as a whole. By pushing the boundaries of what a group buying organisation can in fact offer, UAN works diligently to promote the interests of member businesses through objective strategies to maximise strengths and minimise weaknesses.

While UAN's work to promote all aftermarket member organisations in a number of ways, it still remains true to its nature as a buying group which provides the right agreements with the right suppliers and the best possible purchasing rebates. As one of the largest buying groups operating within the aftermarket sector, even the smallest of businesses are able to benefit from the combined wealth of UAN and benefit from keenly negotiated rates and offers.

Commenting on UAN's core principles as an aftermarket buying group, the company explained: “As UAN enters this exciting phase of centrally administering a distributor's purchasing rebates, we are only too aware and conscious of the extremely difficult trading conditions that distributors operate under.

“It is paramount therefore that UAN, as your buying group partner, continues to focus on the core benefits of UAN membership, ensuring we impact positively on the key areas of your business.

“With the substantial investment UAN has made to the infrastructure of its business, we are better equipped than ever before to support your future and

UAN HAS ENJOYED YEAR AFTER YEAR OF CONSISTENT GROWTH AND SUCCESS

this can only be achieved by continuing to work in partnership with you.”

Through substantial investment into the company, UAN has been able to greatly develop and expand upon the foundations of the business to extend both the level and scope of support which it is able to offer to members. Having constantly outperforming others in the sector, UAN has enjoyed year after year of consistent growth and success which has also enabled the company to continually develop further initiatives to benefit members.

Commenting on the level of service and support offered by UAN, Dave Clarke, Managing Director of Autosupplies (Chesterfield) Ltd commented: "UAN has played an instrumental role in the growth of Autosupplies and, from a central source, is able to positively influence many aspects of our business, while fully supporting our independent status," while Peter Joyner, Chairman of First Line also commented his experiences with UAN: "We have been a supplier to UAN since the beginning and are delighted to have been part of such a major success story in the automotive aftermarket. Its honest, transparent and wholesome approach to the supplier / buying group / factor relationship has spurred us on to becoming one the most prominent suppliers in the group’s history."

As part of UAN's extended service portfolio in support of members, UAN has a dedicated training and education division to support garages with the Continued on page 19

14

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 15

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 16

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 17

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 18

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK

18

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 19

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK expertise required so that they can service and repair today's increasingly complex vehicle.

Through keeping up to date with all the latest changes in technology and parts, UAN, as a key liaison between key suppliers and buyers within the aftermarket sector sits in the perfect position to inform, instruct and advise today's professionals about such changes.

Phil Dodd, Managing Director of UAN explained: “UAN Training & Education is at the forefront of this drive to educate and train motor factors and garages and to ensure the automotive aftermarket continues to keep up with an ever changing vehicle parc.”

UAN recognises that with many of the recent changes and developments in technology, combined with new agendas and themes has left many independent, traditional garages in a difficult situation and unable to keep up with the market itself. Though effective training and education with UAN, these garages are able to keep on the pulse of the aftermarket sector and not only rise to the challenges presented by it, but open up new opportunities on which the company explains: “The pace of change in the auto-

www.tandlonline.com

motive industry has been intense. Today, the complexity of the vehicles produced and the parts that make up these vehicles has far outpaced the development of skills required to service and repair them.What's more, in a global economic downturn, there is a real drive to provide motorists with the most fuel efficient and environmentally friendly cars at low costs. While some may view this as a threat to the traditional garage repairer, UAN believes this technology required to provide ultra efficient, but low cost vehicles will actually make the servicing and repair process a massive opportunity for properly trained technicians.”

Now in partnership with GTG, UAN is able to provide an industry-leading distributor training offer.Through GTG, organisations are able to

benefit from an extensive range of training support from its state-of-the-art training academy.

The GTG Training Academy is divided into two, a fully operational transport division for all automotive and transport training alongside a business section for traditional business skills, ICT and Health & Safety training. UAN also attended what was hailed as the midland's largest garage equipment trade show on Thursday, September 25th at the GTG Training Centre in Wolverhampton. Garages had the change to meet more than 40 suppliers of garage equipment and tooling products, with each supplier demonstrating their products, services and the unique benefits they are able to offer – this made it an exciting period for both suppliers to showcase their products and services while distributors

UAN HAS A DEDICATED TRAINING AND EDUCATION DIVISION TO SUPPORT GARAGES WITH THE EXPERTISE REQUIRED

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

19

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 20

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK

TIMELINE

UAN TIMELINE

10 YEARS OF GROWTH

UAN STARTED IN BUSINESS IN APRIL. UAN LAUNCH TEAM WAS ANDREW AND RACHAEL DICKINSON. COMPANY TAGLINE “EVERYTHING WE DO IS BLACK AND WHITE” ACHIEVED INITIAL TARGET OF 50 DISTRIBUTORS. GROUP PURCHASES EXCEED £20M. UAN BECOMES A LIMITED COMPANY. NEW UAN LOGO LAUNCHED, ILLUSTRATING A MORE PROFESSIONAL IMAGE. MOVE TO NEW LARGER PREMISES. COMPANY CONFERENCE IN BRUSSELS. COMPANY CONFERENCE IN PRAGUE. COMPANY TAGLINE “TRANSPARENCY IS OUR TRADEMARK”

were able to see some of the revolutionary new ideas and technologies out on the market.

UAN also endeavours to promote new additions to its supplier database through its own avenues, such as the UAN website where overviews of new product lines and services can be browsed by distributors or the public, thus supporting the development and success of new, innovative ideas and products. A recent addition to the UAN product portfolio would be Laser Tools’ new range of handy ratchet tap wrenches, regarding which UAN details: “Cleaning dirty or damaged threads or cutting new internal threads has just become easier with Laser Tools’ new range of handy ratchet tap wrenches. Part no 6000 is 90mm in length and covers tap sizes 3-6mm; part no 6001 is also 90mm and covers tap sizes 6-12mm; 6002 and 6003 are both 250mm long and cover the tap sizes 3-6mm and 6-12mm respectively.

“The smooth ratchet drive makes one-handed operation easy, forward and backward movement is conveniently controlled by a thumb switch on the side and the removable sliding T-bar gives just the right amount of leverage. Both lengths of tap wrench are particularly useful when access is difficult. An essential addition to any tap and die set, the Laser 4554 for example.

“The wrenches are designed for a long service life with a plated finish and hardened jaws which are replaceable.”

Continued on page 25

NEW CENTRAL MARKETING PROGRAMME LAUNCHED. COLLECTIVE DISTRIBUTOR TURNOVER EXCEEDS £175M. UAN LOGO AND SWIRL BECOME REGISTERED TRADEMARKS. GROUP PURCHASES EXCEED £70M. UAN TEAM REACHES DOUBLE FIGURES. COLLECTIVE DISTRIBUTOR TURNOVER EXCEEDS £200M. NEW REBATE COLLECTION PROGRAMME LAUNCHED AS “UAN REBATES & MARKETING” APPOINTMENT OF PHIL DODD AS MANAGING DIRECTOR. LAUNCH OF UAN MANAGED DISTRIBUTOR WEBSITES. LAUNCH OF UAN TRAINING & EDUCATION. 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCE IN MUNICH. COLLECTIVE DISTRIBUTOR TURNOVER EXCEEDS £250M.

20

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 21

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

21

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 22

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 23

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 24

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK

24

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 25

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK Through promoting and detailing new product lines in this manner, suppliers are able to benefit from extended UAN coverage and distributors are able to quickly and easily keep up to date with the latest ranges, complete with detailed product specifications and best-use suggestions. This allows UAN to work for the benefit of both parties and promote excellence within the aftermarket sector, whilst not marketing products in a way which may be conceived as biased or untrue.

Having last year reached its 10th year anniversary, UAN proudly celebrated its continued success in Munich at the elegant roof-top garden restaurant at the Hotel Bayerisch Hof on March 21st. UAN recognised six members present at the celebration with a 10 year membership award, presented to: Advance Autoparts, A and M Parts, ACD, Essex Motor Factors, JPR Motor Parks and S and W in addition to supplier awards recognised for their support, including: Delphi, FAI, First Line, Fuchs, Gates, Mahle, Manbat, Nissens, Remy, TMD, Transhock and ZF. Commenting on the milestone success of reaching its 10th year anniversary, UAN said: “This year, 2014, marks an important milestone in the progress and development of the United Aftermarket Network, celebrating its 10 year anniversary. It has been a decade of success which has seen the buying group grow sales – now with a turnover of £250 million, which is 10% of the total UK market - and its membership becoming one of the leading aftermarket buying groups in the UK.” Of those attending the celebrations, numer-

ous UAN members left comment including key individuals at Manbat Ltd and APEC. “UAN collects, administers and delivers supplier purchasing rebates with competitive pricing and rebates to increase distributor profitability alongside additional profit-boosting services such as: a centralised marketing programme to develop and support promotional strategies, promotion of distributor independence within the UAN umbrella, experienced field-based support and expertise and further supportive services from an array of high class and reputable “Service providers” for the sector. In addition, UAN also ensures the highest standards of supplies and

only the best brands for buyers, allowing such organisations to get the most reliable and quality branded goods within budget,” explained Paul Payne, Sales Director of Manbat Ltd. Additionally, Andrew Tsang, UK Sales Manager of APEC said: “This is a perfect event to cement relationships with new and existing customers as well as an opportunity to share and celebrate with UAN on their 10th anniversary.

Doing business with UAN and its members is always pleasurable. You know where you stand with them and hopefully it works both ways.

That’s why we’ve been partners for 10 years.”

UAN has also recently announced a 5 year

UAN ENSURES THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF SUPPLIES AND ONLY THE BEST BRANDS FOR BUYERS

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

25

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 26

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: UNITED AFTERMARKET NETWORK partnership with Unipart Autoparts, the car and commercial vehicle component distribution arm of the Unipart Group. Unipart Group itself boasts an annual turnover of over £1bn and employing over 8,000 individuals and it is thereforce expected that this partnership will greatly benefit UAN's distributor network. The arrangement itself will see Unipart Autoparts to supply UAN's distributor members with parts of trucks, trailers, light and commercial vehicles which will give UAN distributors stocking the Unipart brand the opportunity to supply product into the Unipart Car Care Centres.

Phil commented: “Following our long association with Unipart through the TTC brand we are delighted to now be in the position, along with Andrew Page, of being able to support and supply probably the best Garage programme in the UK... We look forward to working even closer with Unipart Autoparts and helping with the continued success of the Unipart Car Care Programme.”

Tony Sackett, Managing Director of Unipart Autoparts also said: “Following a long and successful relationship with the UAN with our TTC brand we are delighted to extend that relationship with our Unipart brand. The Unipart brand continues to be in great demand by car owners, Unipart Car Care Centres and the Express Factor network. This arrangement with UAN compliments the strategic collaboration recently announced with Andrew Page and provides access to Unipart products throughout the whole of Britain and Ireland.”

In recent news, new UAN supplier Rollco has also made great progress since joining UAN in converting

26

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

business from non-approved suppliers. Described as one of his best moves of the year, selling nearly 100 units per month and making surprisingly substantial profits during difficult times, Dave Baker of YES and Ken Hargreaves of KG Motaquip are both delighted by the new distributor agreements brought on board by Rollco. Chris Blogg from Rollco commented: "Becoming an approved supplier to UAN has enabled us to displace non-approved product within the group. Working with a structured price and rebate programme means that the UAN member knows exactly what is available and that their rebates arrive in a timely fashion."

DOING BUSINESS WITH UAN AND ITS MEMBERS IS ALWAYS PLEASURABLE. YOU KNOW WHERE YOU STAND WITH THEM It is expected that in coming times, as the economy continues to recover and further business opportunities open up to those within the aftermarket sector that UAN will continue to lead the way in innovative purchasing solutions, rebates and business support services so that both supplier and distributor members are able to truly benefit from the opportunities made available to them in coming times. We eagerly await to see how UAN will continue to develop its services in coming times and how it will continue to revolutionise the aftermarket sector with new, ground-breaking solutions.

www.unitedaftermarket.net Tel: 0121 323 4165

www.tandlonline.com

UAN.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 12:54 Page 27

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:58 Page 28

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

GROUPAUTO

The company providing the building blocks for your business and the foundations for your success riginally founded by Arnold Parker as the Factoring Services Group (FSG) in April 1974, the organisation then joined with GROUPAUTO International in 2002, with over 160 approved suppliers across 29 countries and a sales turnover in excess of 4.8 billion Euros per annum. Now serving as the largest, most reputable and industrywide acclaimed trading group within the aftermarket, GROUPAUTO boasts an individual UK turnover of £450m, making it a true powerhouse in the motor industry.

Leading the way in helping independent distributors to remain independent, but benefit from the processes typically associated with large corporations, GROUPAUTO believes strongly in the freedom of choice for: suppliers to deal openly with Europe's foremost Trading Group, independent members to choose preferred Tier 1 suppliers, independent garages to service and repair vehicles under warranty and for vehicle owners and operators to have their vehicles serviced where and when they choose – not simply what is most convenient for the manufacturer.

Detailing the sheer scope of the group and the associated benefits, GROUPAUTO explains: “The group currently has over 580 distributors and continues to grow.

This means increased buying power and extensive UK and international operational experience. Interaction between countries, market segments and members is an integral part of an open and fluid philosophy where best practice is identified and ideas are shared to add measurable value.”

No other trading group within the UK even comes close to the sheer size, scope and capabilities of GROUPAUTO, providing its members with incredible buying group savings which feed all the way down the supply chain, right to their respective independent garage customers. Through the commercial vehicle parts distributor programme operated by GROUPAUTO, GTruck, independent distributors are able to operate locally, regionally and collectively as part of the national Trading Group of over 80 distribution depots – this

O

www.groupauto.co.uk Tel: 01274 654600

28

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:58 Page 29

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

29

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:58 Page 30

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:58 Page 31

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO essentially allows independent distributors to share the business benefits of belonging to the G-Truck Network such as group buying benefits and the GTruck Service Promise.

Commenting on the benefits of the G-Truck Network, Martin Sangster, Commercial Manager of CV Products at GROUPAUTO explains: “GROUPAUTO has a brilliant model which can be of huge commercial benefit to all our members, on both sides of the operation. Basically, on the one hand we have agreements with most of the major components suppliers in the Commercial Vehicles sector. We agree high volume discounts with them which allow us to provide access to these parts of our own distribution channels at very competitive costs than would be available to them directly. On our distribution side we have a range of G-Truck distributors and factors, who source their parts directly from our approved suppliers. This cuts out the hassle for our distributors and allows for optimum delivery times. The big difference however is that the supplier then invoices GROUPAUTO for those parts delivered to our factors.

“What this means is that our distribution operations get great prices for the parts they source through the GROUPAUTO system, and only have one single invoice to cover all of the components they buy, independent of how many direct purchases they make from any of our suppliers. We consolidate all their purchases and send a single itemised invoice, this saves them hugely in terms of admin and management costs, as well as attracting a much better level of discount than they could ever agree on their own.

“To support our commercial vehicle distribution chain we also have a series of Top Truck garages, who are approved GROUPAUTO members and who can source the components they need through our brand-

www.tandlonline.com

GROUPAUTO HAS A BRILLIANT MODEL WHICH CAN BE OF HUGE COMMERCIAL BENEFIT TO ALL OUR MEMBERS ed G-Truck supply chain. And then, to support the garages themselves, we have a breakdown operation, which means that any vehicle that is brought in through the GROUPAUTO recovery service is recovered to one of the 27 approved Top Truck garages, thus stimulating their businesses, as well as driving business through the factors from which the garages source the necessary parts.”

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

31

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:58 Page 32

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET REVIEW: GROUPAUTO

Through supporting smaller, privately owned organisations, GROUPAUTO is able to assist these organisations with maintaining their individuality and often even the personal values and morals of smaller companies, whilst leveraging the added-value of a huge world-wide brand, which means that smaller companies can still maintain a prominent market presence and industry reputation at a fraction of the cost and without changing the nature of the business itself. In addition, this also means that companies who simply cannot afford to buy in large bulk quantities, which would result in the benefits of economies of scale, can do so through GROUPAUTO's systems and be able to offer equally competitive pricing as large, multinational or global brands.

32

Martin also adds: “We work with all our members to help them re-brand their premises with GROUPAUTO and Top Truck branding, which helps us to reinforce our brand image nationally, and helps them to boost their own market recognition. It really is a win/win situation, they are affiliated to a nationally recognised brand, whilst still retaining complete independence. We are always looking expand our national coverage into new geographies and territories and work closely with our existing partners to help them to maximise their own local business.�

Through Top Truck UK, a division of the European workshop programme, possessing over 550 workshops across the globe, GROUPAUTO is able to support independent businesses with a comprehensive programme of

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

support so that they can compete effectively against many of the industry giants and weather increasingly difficult conditions, strong competition and the increasing technical nature of the market. The programme itself offers a variety of services and support such as: image and branding, IT software solutions, marketing, technical and business training, commercial vehicle roadside assistance, a rapid-response recovery programme throughout Europe 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and the benefits associated with the Top Truck Apprenticeship Programme and IRTEC Accreditation Programme.

As part of a large, multinational organisation, Top Truck garages provides a partnership which truly benefits the independent garage, on which David Moore from HTF Commercial Repairs

www.tandlonline.com

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:58 Page 33

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

33

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:58 Page 34

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

34

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 35

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

gives his input: “The Top Truck partnership works both ways, although we are still 100% independent we benefit from the group infrastructure and image which benefits small businesses. The corporate clothing is great and we are proud to be part of a larger team.

Conversely, Top Truck is strengthened by companies like HTF and the resource that we bring to the network.”

GROUPAUTO IS ABLE TO SUPPORT PARTNER GARAGES WITH A STEADY FLOW OF INCREASINGLY SKILLED OPERATIVES

www.tandlonline.com

Commenting on the Apprenticeship Programme, GROUPAUTO explains: “We have recognised the lack of apprentices in the CV garages and have now launched our own apprenticeship programme. This ensures our Top Truck network will always have good quality, well trained technicians in our partner garages.”

Through such works, GROUPAUTO is able to support partner garages with a steady flow of increasingly skilled operatives, support local communities through additional apprenticeship opportunities and chances for career development and even support the industry as a whole through supporting it with an array of highly skilled individuals.

Through providing organisations access to Top Truck's fully inclusive branding package to assist organisations with areas such as: building signage, vehicle livery, workshop painting, reception desks, as well as branded work wear and stationery. With additional funding support made available for independent garages to re-brand their premises and vehicles with the distinctive Top Truck branding, any organisation, be it large or small can benefit from the increased publicity and brand recognition of Top Truck - “The Top Truck garage network is one of the best in the industry, so as a Top Truck garage you need to shout about it,”

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

35

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 36

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO explains the company.

Further supported by Top Truck's comprehensive marketing programme, garages are able to utilise Top Truck's marketing materials to promote their brand further, as well as increase the overall branding benefits already mentioned.

Marketing materials made available to independent garages include: branded promotional items and point of sale material, template software to create personalised material for individual brands and services and the usage of On Route Magazine, the commercial vehicle magazine distributed through “Commercial Vehicle Workshop” and “Transport Engineer”. Carl Haslam from Haslam Commercial Services comments on some of the benefits achieved through utilising Top Truck's marketing materials: “Joining the Top Truck network has elevated our business to a different level, giving us a clear brand and image that is recognised as the market leader in independent aftermarket servicing of commercial vehicles.”

In addition to promotional support, GROUPAUTO also assists businesses by giving them confidence in the parts which they utilise, whilst also essentially ensuring that all of these parts are of the highest standard of quality – this is done through allowing independent garages to purchase parts through G-Truck distributors stocking an assortment of OE Quality parts at competitive prices not typically available to smaller organisations. Further detailing this process, the company explains: “GROUPAUTO make sure that all approved suppliers to the group provide assurances to the quality and suitability of the components they intend to supply. Being the UK's largest trading group, they

36

also secure the lowest prices for their members without compromising on quality.” Further supported by the buying power made available to independent garages, GROUPAUTO ensures that massive savings can be made consistently, whilst not compromising quality of effectiveness due to the rigid quality guidelines laid out by the company itself.

Though not as widely known as GROUPAUTO's purchasing and promotional support, the company also provides significant benefits for independent garages through comprehensive fleet management software.The soft-

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

ware, which is set out to target the increasing demand for digital software as an essential tool in the modern workshop. The Blue Crystal Rental Fleet Management System (RFM) allows garages to gain quick and accurate access to customer and vehicle records, accessible easily with a few simple clicks. Through utilising the system, garages will be able to transition from less reliable and less efficient wall planners and excel spread sheets, to the new high-tech solution, on which Chris Elliot, Lufton Commercials comments with his personal thoughts: “The aid of having everything going through one operat-

www.tandlonline.com

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 37

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

37

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 38

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 39

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

ing system has made revisiting old jobs so much easier and retrieving information faster. Gone are the days of trawling through countless old invoices or spreadsheets.”

Having established new lead-generating website and garage network, ApprovedGarages.co.uk in 2013, GROUPAUTO has also being making great moves to support organisations with increased business traffic and opportunities.

Now catering for over 450 garages and seeing a share of £2.6m of new business in just 18 months, the scheme has evidently achieved great success and is a credit to the GROUPAUTO name. The network, which comprises of independent garages built on a trust from the outset has a carefully selected member-base which is

www.tandlonline.com

regularly vetted and assessed so that motorists can rest easy and have confidence when maintaining their vehicles in addition to directing extra work to local garages – a scheme which truly benefits all.

Detailing the Approved Garages Network further, the company explains how the network works and is managed for the benefit of both the motorist and the garage in question: “At Approved Garages we use only O.E. or matched quality parts and lubricants when carrying out service or repair work to our customers’ vehicles. Not only will this ensure that we don’t invalidate your vehicle’s warranty, but also that your car is in a safe running condition giving you peace of mind when on the road.

Quality, reliability and safety is at the forefront of our mind and when it comes to providing a quality level of service you can look forward to both, high quality workmanship and excellent customer service.

Managed by a team of knowledgeable expert mechanics, each garage is fully equipped with the latest electronic diagnostic equipment and tools.

All work is carried out to vehicle manufacturer approved standards, ensuring that your car will get you to your destination safely.”

Through research into the success of garages, GROUPAUTO has found that despite popular belief, it is those garages which are conveniently located, with exemplary level of service and professional standards for staff and serv-

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

39

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 40

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

ices which determines the success of a garage, not simply being the cheapest available. Through the AutoCare garage programme, GROUPAUTO is able to support independent garages in achieving this through a wide range of supporting services. Through offering support for areas such as: branding, quality parts, software, marketing, lead generation and training, Commenting specifically on the importance of training services and professionalism displayed by employees, GROUPAUTO explains: “New Technology in cars entering your garage means it's more important than ever for your technicians to have the latest knowledge through additional training on the job.”

In celebration of its forty years in operation, this year GROUPAUTO held its annual trade show, gala dinner and awards ceremony at the Harrogate International Centre (HIC) over the 2nd and 3rd of October. In the build-up to the event, Jim Mazza, Managing Director of GROUPAUTO explained: “HIC in Harrogate is the perfect venue for our combined trade show and annual conference as it is not only superbly located, equidistant between London and Edinburgh, but is a fittingly prestigious venue to celebrate the trading group’s 40th anniversary. The recent trend of growth for the event continues and in common with the last two, this year’s event will be our

40

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

“IT'S MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER FOR YOUR TECHNICIANS TO HAVE THE LATEST KNOWLEDGE” biggest ever, with 120 approved suppliers already confirmed as exhibitors for Friday’s trade show.

“The event actually ‘tees off’ on Thursday, with a golf day and then an open meeting for members from MAM Software, held at The Majestic Hotel, which is followed by an evening buffet. The trade show opens bright and early at 08:30 on Friday morning in halls M & C and runs through to 16:30. The event closes in style with our traditional gala dinner and awards ceremony held in the Harrogate Royal Hall from 19:30. So

Continued on page 45

www.tandlonline.com

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 41

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

41

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 42

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 43

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 44

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

44

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 45

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

we look forward to welcoming our members and approved suppliers to what I’m sure will be a memorable and enjoyable event.”

Bringing together an incredible blend of social activities and business into a single occasion, GROUPAUTO’s celebrations at Harrogate were a momentous success, with members and approved suppliers alike noting their enjoyment of the event and celebrating the success of GROUPAUTO on its 40th anniversary. Suppliers were also invited to embrace the Past, Present, Future theme and celebrate key milestones in their company’s heritage. Large canvas exhibits and memorabilia such as vintage vehicles and old car parts were on display throughout the show,

www.tandlonline.com

adding to the nostalgic theme and highlighting just how much the times have changed in terms of manufacture, design and technology in the aftermarket industry.

After the trade show at the Gala Dinner the winners of the annual GROUPAUTO awards were celebrated amongst over 400 suppliers and members who stayed to see out the event in style. Jim Mazza introduced Bob Ackroyd, Commercial Director of Operations who presented the supplier awards, Martin Sangster, Commercial Manager – G-Truck then presented the CV Member of the Year awards with Toby Whewell, Commercial Manager - Sales presenting the final award for Automotive Member of

the Year.

For the G-Logix Supplier of the Year award, the team assessed voting criteria including sales performance, availability, additional support, marketing, logistics and the availability in the warehouse for a minimum 12 month period. G-Logix is GROUPAUTO’s own distribution centre, which is another channel through which members can purchase products. There were nominations for Steel Seal, Hammerite (AkzoNobel), Formpart, HPC and Corteco, but it was Hammerite, the metal paint specialist who edged ahead and won the award. Built upon a foundation of combined science and experience, Hammerite is unlike any conventional paints and

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

45

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 46

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO can be applied directly onto metal without using a primer and undercoat first: “It's as easy as that!

Hammerite Metal Paints require minimal surface preparation before application and offer long lasting protection, plus a great looking finish for both interior and exterior metal finished,” explains Hammerite.

In addition to the G-Logix Supplier of the Year award, nominations were also collected the GROUPAUTO Supplier of the Year, as voted for by the GROUPAUTO Members themselves, with nominations being accepted for: Autoelectro, Wix, Apec, First Line, Juratek, GLogix, NGK, Mahle, Lumag and FPS with Apec successfully winning the award and both Wix and Mahle coming in as joint runners up. As a firmly established leader in specialist braking supplies to motor factors, Apec has an astounding reputation for quality and service: “Apec always goes the extra mile,” states Apec.

For membership awards, the structure of the voting criteria for the CV Member of the Year covered areas such as loyalty to approved suppliers, input to group, the use of added value, attending meetings and conferences and support for Top Truck garages with nominations coming in for: H S Atec, Industrial friction Services, Anglesey Commercial Spares, Cunnigham Truck Parts, CV Parts, David Huggett Motor Factors, Commercial Motor Products, Big Wheels, Hydrair and HGV Truck & Trailer with David Hugget Motor Factors Taking the Win, with Industrial Friction Services coming in second.

For the Automotive Member of the Year award, criteria was judged on a year-on-year spend through the Bureau and G-Logix, the number of AutoCare & Approved Garages and growth, the use of the added value items, GXpert garage involvement and attendance at AutoCare & GROUPAUTO events with nomi-

46

GROUPAUTO’S CELEBRATIONS AT HARROGATE WERE A MOMENTOUS SUCCESS WITH MEMBERS AND APPROVED SUPPLIERS ALIKE nations for: Abbey Motor Factors, Antrim & Mac Autoparts, Bedale Motor Factors, Bridgend Motor Factors, Dorset Auto Spares, FMP Motor Factors, G D Components, LDS Motor Factors, Livingston Auto Parts and Oak Road Motor Factors. Through a relatively close competition, the award was presented to LDS Motor Factors, with Bedale Motor Factors taking the runner up position.

Though already proving to be an incredible event for people to behold, GROUPAUTO also managed to successfully raise an impressive sum

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

of £4250 for the charity “BEN” in association with the gala dinner, turning a day of great enjoyment for those working in the industry into one also aimed to helping those in need of support, advice and care during hard times. Jo Jones from BEN said: “Many thanks to all involved at the GROUPAUTO event who contributed to a wonderful fundraising effort that totalled over £4,250. This will go towards providing support for colleagues across the industry facing circumstances they and their families would otherwise struggle to cope with.We have already had some

www.tandlonline.com

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 08:59 Page 47

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

47

group auto.qxp_feature 2 27/01/2015 09:31 Page 48

tecdoc

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 09:00 Page 49

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

companies come forward to discuss ongoing opportunities to support BEN through performance related giving which enables you to donate to BEN through linking it with your business success.”

BEN, which exists to provide care, support and advice to those in the automotive industry who need help in times of hardship and distress provides a wide range of different types of support for those in need.

From helping with the cost of specialist disabled equipment for a child, giving emotional support through an illness to funding a respite break for workers and their partners, BEN is there to help all those who work within the sector and improve the level of support on offer for those struggling to cope.Through the support of its volunteer network and of fundraising support from key partners such as GROUPAUTO, BEN is able to provide a service which provided much security and stability for those working with the automotive industry: “BEN is a very unique charity and one of the reasons we stand out is because of the huge team of volunteers who support us each year, to help maintain our care and welfare services, as well as our fundraising activities and administration. Volunteers are the lifeblood of BEN, and without their commitment, drive and skills, we could not afford to do everything we do,”

www.tandlonline.com

explains the charity.

Concluding with an incredible performance from the Rockabellas, the evening with GROUPAUTO went down tremendously with all those involved, for which the company would like to thank Sarah, Pippa and Lizzie for ending the event on a wonderful note including new and old hits in tribute to the heritage theme, brought further to life by the many historical photographs, advertisements and memorabilia on display during the event. In addition,

GROUPAUTO MANAGED TO SUCCESSFULLY RAISE AN IMPRESSIVE SUM OF £4250 FOR THE CHARITY “BEN” GROUPAUTO would like to thank CMM Events and all the GROUPAUTO staff involved in making this year's event even more incredible than ever before.

Chris Chaplin, Commercial Manager – Marketing for GROUPAUTO gave his thoughts on the day and commented on the feedback from suppliers and members who attended the event: “We were very excited about coming back to Harrogate as the Harrogate International Centre (HIC)

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

49

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 09:00 Page 50

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GROUPAUTO

is a great venue and the atmosphere in the town makes holding the trade show, gala dinner and awards ceremony there, a real pleasure.

“In using three of HIC’s four largest halls – two for the show and the other for the gala dinner – visitors could be left in doubt of the scale of the event, which for a UK aftermarket expo is second only to the CV Show and with 120 approved suppliers pulling out all the stops, it was an action packed and lively environment for 200 delegates from 120 GROUPAUTO motor factor members to come and reaffirm relationships and place orders.

“Several suppliers reported that the level of business concluded at the show this year had surpassed previous events as there seemed to be a real desire to do business, rather than simply browse the

50

aisles, however interesting the various stands.

“This ‘business first’ attitude was also reflected in the effort that suppliers put into attracting members, with competitions and promotional girls aplenty, themed stands like that of Mahle’s and an amazing three-metre wide digital screen, which captured the spirit of the heritage theme that underpinned the whole event, on Autoelectro’s award winning stand.”

Looking to the future, GROUPAUTO will continue to define and redefine what it means to be an independent organisation operating within the automotive sector, as well as the sheer scope of support made available to both member organisations and reputable, high-quality providers of crucial automotive parts, services and other associated elements. Though the

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

automotive industry is as unpredictable as the weather, GROUPAUTO provides all the support necessary for organisations to weather the hard times, as well as, through charity works assisting those working within the sector to do the same.

With the UK economy now in times of recovery, it is expected that both GROUPAUTO and its members will now be able to take great advantage of the opportunities being made available to them – no doubt something which GROUPAUTO will highlight and offer increasing support for these organisations to assist them.

Though some things are never certain, one thing is – independent organisations operating within the sector need never be alone, or feel stranded amid a competitive market and no hopes of success, not while GROUPAUTO exists.

www.tandlonline.com

group auto.qxp_feature 2 13/01/2015 09:00 Page 51

kuehue nagel.qxp_feature 2 06/01/2015 14:58 Page 52

NATIONAL CARBON EMISSIONS REVIEW: KUEHNE + NAGEL

GOLD STANDARD Kuehne + Nagel is committed to providing a significant influence on carbon reduction, setting and achieving demanding environmental targets time after time

52

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

kuehue nagel.qxp_feature 2 06/01/2015 14:58 Page 53

NATIONAL CARBON EMISSIONS REVIEW: KUEHNE + NAGEL

arge logistics companies have a significant influence on carbon reduction. That applies to Kuehne + Nagel which has 63,000 employees in over 100 countries, is the number one global seafreight forwarder, second for airfreight and contract logistics and in the top three of European road freight providers.

So it is important that Kuehne + Nagel sets and achieves demanding environmental targets and so far this year there’s been a 10.6% reduction in CO2 emissions per employee against a 3% target.

That’s across the company’s UK estate, mostly warehouses, and results primarily from two initiatives: retro-fitting energy-efficient lighting in three of the larger Regional Distribution Centres and, as Environmental Manager Martin Johnson recounts, savings resulting from an employee suggestion: “We have adopted ‘cool-wash’ techniques for cleaning of food trays for retail clients.This process

L

www.tandlonline.com

was trialled last year, is fully implemented now and has resulted in a 32% reduction in gas usage.”

For vehicles, the aim is to improve fuel efficiency by 1% annually, though this target has already been beaten, with actual savings of 2.9% this year for the 1,250-strong fleet. It’s been achieved though new vehicles, aerodynamic fittings, telematics and an on-going driver training and awareness programme.

Kuehne + Nagel is working to a longer-term global strategy, which aims to have replaced 10% of fossil-fuel with renewable energy sources by 2020. So far in the UK, the company has installed one Photo-Voltaic array and others are planned.

In addition, there has been significant progress on switching to using renewable transport fuels.

“We’re currently increasing our use of LNG dualfuel vehicles and have just commissioned our first bulk tank at a strategic location in the Midlands,” comments Martin.

“Conversions of more Euro V vehicles are underway and will be in our fleet by the end of the year. We’re running a successful dual-fuel trial with used cooking oil and also have a fully electric 7.5 tonne vehicle in London with a range of 100 kilometres. It has been integrated into the fleet and is working days and nights, seven days a week on an extensive multi-drop operation. We’re also powering a refrigeration unit off that as well.”

New technology is seen as a means of further reducing emissions and that will include continued roll-out of intelligent heating and lighting controls.

The efforts made so far have been recognised and rewarded: Kuehne + Nagel has held the Carbon Trust Standard continuously for four years.

The company is also one of the biggest users of inter-modal rail from UK ports to inland terminals and is looking to further increase rail use by 2020.

Continued on page 57

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

53

kuehue nagel.qxp_feature 2 06/01/2015 14:58 Page 54

kuehue nagel.qxp_feature 2 06/01/2015 14:58 Page 55

the toyota way... roductivity goes hand in hand with safety, energy and cost efficiency. Therefore, responding to growing needs for greater environmental performance is a priority for both Toyota and their customers.

BT Radioshuttle aisle free storage system to the 99 year frame guarantee on standard BT Lifter hand pallet trucks, it is clear Toyota is continuing to develop its range of products to help customers reduce energy consumption and provide unmatched build quality.

Toyota’s strategy and focus was outlined in Toyota Material Handling Europe’s first sustainability report in which EcoVadis awarded Toyota a gold level for its sustainability performance.

EcoVadis monitors the sustainability profile of suppliers across 150 sectors and 95 countries. Toyota ranks highly in the four assessment categories in the material handling sector; environment, labour practices, fair business practices, and suppliers.

Tony Wallis, Sales and Marketing Director from Toyota Material Handling UK says, “This external seal of approval is a reward for our people who work hard to make Toyota’s products and services more sustainable. It shows our customers that we are taking the issue as seriously as they are.”

The sustainability report outlines how Toyota is providing products and solutions that minimise environmental impact, optimise business processes and maximise safety, quality and performance.

Toyota recently launched their new 41kW industrial engine for their Tonero diesel torque converter forklifts up to 3.5 tonne. This new engine is up to 28% more energy efficient that the previous model and exceeds the requirements set by the European Union exhaust emission regulation Stage 3B. The new engine boasts high productivity in material handling operations combined with low energy consumption to help keep running costs low. The new engine technology eliminates the need for the diesel particulate filter (DPF) - typically installed on diesel engines to meet Stage 3B emission levels – and therefore any kind of associated maintenance and operational costs. The new range of Toyota engines have been designed to suit all applications from low to high intensity and help Toyota to deliver increased fuel efficiency and a more sustainable operation.

P

The Toyota Way Continuous improvement is a fundamental part of the Toyota way of working. It not only improves efficiency but it also improves the sustainability of our products, our people and our processes.

From Toyota’s extended electric range of forklifts up to 8.0 tonne to new innovative technology like lithium-ion batteries for warehouse trucks, high density or automated solutions like the

Innovation

Remaining sustainable The choice of truck is only part of the support Toyota can provide after-sales support for companies who want to improve their energy efficiency. Toyota supports their customers throughout the trucks’ lifecycle to help them to improve safety, increase productivity and reduce waste and cost.

Toyota I_Site fleet management helps customers to improve the efficiency of their operation by allowing them to monitor their fleet and identify areas for improvement relating to safety, Toyota also have an operator training team who provide a range of products courses which includes showing operators how to get the most out of their trucks, highlighting driving techniques that help operators to reduce energy consumption as well as accidents.

Wallis summarises “It’s a combination of looking at product, process and people that helps companies to improve their performance.

Our customers not only rely on us to supply them with quality trucks, but to they also are looking for us to provide them with an all-round package that makes their business efficient and sustainable.”

For more information visit: www.toyota-forklifts.co.uk Tel: 0370 850 1409

kuehue nagel.qxp_feature 2 06/01/2015 14:58 Page 56

NATIONAL CARBON EMISSIONS REVIEW: KUEHNE + NAGEL

56

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

kuehue nagel.qxp_feature 2 06/01/2015 14:58 Page 57

NATIONAL CARBON EMISSIONS REVIEW: KUEHNE + NAGEL Much of the company’s environmental strategy is based on collaboration. Martin says: “We’re collaborating with competitors, customers and other bodies to produce a common global methodology for the calculation of freight carbon emissions across all modes. It’s clearly going to become a competitive issue and already customers are asking what we can do to take carbon out of their supply chain.”

WE RECOGNISE THAT THERE IS A STRONG DEMAND FROM SHIPPERS TO BE ABLE TO MEASURE EMISSIONS ACCURATELY

www.kn-portal.com Telephone: 01895 552000

www.tandlonline.com

Collaboration includes being founder members of the Freight Transport Association’s Logistics Carbon Reduction Scheme and the Global Logistics Emissions Council, where it’s been able to influence National Government and European policy and objectives.

“We recognise that there is a strong demand from shippers to be able to measure emissions accurately and to compare emissions between logistics operators,” remarks Martin. “We have committed to providing transport emissions data to customers for their own internal and external use; for example carbon labelling or Carbon Disclosure Project submission.That, over the next two or three years, is going to be a very big area for us as customers start to become more demanding and many will see the achievement of carbon neutral

supply chains as realistic aspiration and ultimately as a USP. I think that this will be a big talking point in the logistics industry over the next few years.”

When Kuehne + Nagel and shippers have done as much as they can to reduce supply chain emissions, the company provides a ‘Gold Standard’ carbon offsetting service that’s very simple to use and is cost-effective compared to alternatives.

It is now using its internal technical specialists in conjunction with a major customer and a respected academic institution for carbon optimisation of the supply chain. That, as Martin outlines, has revealed carbon saving opportunities that vary between countries: “For example, the UK and Germany have different key performance indicators. Although both economies are mature and extremely organised from a logistics point of view, in the UK demand is dominated by retailers whereas in Germany manufacturers dominate. For this reason plus geography, histories and culture, the supply chains are very different. So we analyse customers’ supply chains in detail, in individual countries, and come up with a plan for each market.”

The next stage, he confirms, is to start producing emissions data in advance of shipment: “We’ve just launched a global seafreight calculator so a customer can see what their emissions are going to be in advance rather than after the event. We have the data to be able to provide options depending on the carrier that shipment might be routed via and, within the next two or three years, we will have a sophisticated option to select different origins and destinations.”

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

57

CIWM.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:07 Page 58

WASTE AND RECYCLING: CIWM

SUPPORT DEVELOP INFLUENCE CIWM sets professional standards for it’s 7000 members and inspires excellence in resource management

58

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

CIWM.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:07 Page 59

WASTE AND RECYCLING: CIWM aving gone through several changes of name since its formation in 1898, the current one doesn’t fully describe the CIWM’s activities. “It’s not just waste collection, transport and treatment,” remarks Deputy CEO Chris Murphy. “We touch on energy, climate change, logistics and water usage and our technical skills go far beyond waste.We are a resource organisation and that’s the same for waste companies now because they’re dealing with resources of value.”

CIWM is a members’ organisation and most of its 7,000 members are individuals who are, or are working towards, chartered waste manager status.

To become members, they need a degree level qualification, five years’ industry experience and must satisfy a professional interview. The organisation provides support to help them achieve that and members must also complete twenty hours continuing professional development (CPD) annually. That enables CIWM to vouch for members’ credibility and expertise, further enforced by a code of practice and disciplinary procedures.

The Institution supports the industry and its members by promoting best practice through influencing, informing and developing skills. Its activities include training, awards ceremonies, recruitment and exhibitions. Head of Marketing Adrian Arnold adds: “We run conferences for networking and sharing best practice. We produce frequent news from a policy or technical perspective and provide detailed technical support, reports and studies into varied subjects. We have special interest groups that solve particular problems or discuss specific issues.”

Members look to CIWM to influence government to produce the best legislation without imposing unnecessary restrictions. “We work to make sure the legislation is appropriate,” recounts Chris. “Before it comes in, we educate members through workshops, seminars or publications to warn of forthcoming legislation and ensure it’s addressed.”

There’s a Waste Smart course aimed at those who create waste, informing them of their responsibilities and the opportunities to cut costs through

H

WE TOUCH ON ENERGY, CLIMATE CHANGE, LOGISTICS AND WATER USAGE AND OUR TECHNICAL SKILLS GO FAR BEYOND WASTE reduction, reuse and recycling. That’s particularly relevant as sending waste to landfill is becoming increasingly expensive and the organisation wants to spread the word, particularly to SMEs that are unable to devote huge quantities of time dealing with that which they throw away. Waste Smart offers practical and simple advice that will save time and, ultimately, reduce costs.

UK recycling rates have improved from 10% ten years ago to over 40% now, helped by the availability and increased use of technology, a rise in public awareness of resource scarcity and driven by tax legislation. CIWM is keen for government to increase targets and, to achieve them, it’s encouraging greater partnership working. It’s also, as Adrian recounts, trying to achieve something more fundamental: “We’re getting involved in behaviour change by stopping people throwing things away. It’s at the heart of being proud of the environment you’re living and working in.”

Part of the criteria for its Royal Charter, received ten years ago, is an international profile. About 5% of members are abroad and it’s increasingly working overseas to help improve recycling and educate generally. But the overriding objective is overall improvement. “We want to move from a waste to a resource philosophy,” says Chris. “We want to stop thinking about how to get waste dumped and to segregate it, keep it clean and get it back into the circular economy.”

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

59

preston bus.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 11:05 Page 60

BUS & COACH: PRESTON BUS

THE NETWORK FOR YOUR CITY

Preston Bus provide an efficient reliable and value-for-money commercial network of bus services

60

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

reston Bus Limited (PBL) is part of Rotala Group, an AIM listed company, and after acquisition in January 2011 is Rotala's North West hub for future development. Through Wessex Bus Limited and Diamond Bus Limited Rotala has a leading market position in the South West and West Midlands. It also has transport management services in the South East of England.

PBL continues to build on its principles of Safety & Compliance, Quality, Respect and Profitability for re-investment. Since 2011 Rotala has implemented widespread investment, in staff development, fleet modernisation and upgraded IT systems, including ‘integrated’ Real Time enabled electronic ticket machines and back office systems.

PBL aim to provide customers with an efficient,

P

www.tandlonline.com

preston bus.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 11:05 Page 61

BUS & COACH: PRESTON BUS

is to integrate the majority of the college’s transport requirements onto existing commercial services. This has to date proved beneficial to both PBL and the college.

Whilst the political situation is convoluted at LCC there are, in common with many local authorities, unprecedented draconian cuts proposed. PBL believe diversification, innovation and investment are the way forward, especially in light of possible removal of all tendered bus services in 2015. Part of that diversification resulted in PBL competitively retaining the maintenance contract with Preston City Council for its fleet of ancillary vehicles. The department also extended its client base in 2014 to include Network Rail and Smith Plant Hire as well as purchasing two refuse wagons for hire. The company has also recently branched out into training by offering CPC modules to a number of outside organisations and local bus companies, plus ITSSAR accredited Folk Lift Truck training.

Since 2012 £3.9m has been spent on new diesel-electric hybrid buses to further enhance PBL’s carbon reduction initiatives, which feature in a policy of ongoing fleet replacement towards more fuel-efficient buses. Through the phased introduction of new vehicles and modern technology, PBL is

improving the passenger experience. During 2012 the company introduced the first diesel electric hybrid buses to the City of Preston – representing an investment of £1.5m on seven Optare Versa single deck hybrid buses, with a further £2.4m on eight Wright bodied Volvo double deck hybrid buses in 2013. Additional investment in vehicle replacement has also been undertaken with the purchase of three Wright bodied Streetlites, a Mercedes Citaro and several group upgrades.

In addition PBL has successfully introduced and installed EcoManager and Actia telematic systems improving fuel efficiency and helping PBL achieve its carbon emissions targets.

Suppliers in both instances have worked closely with PBL’s Training Manager, and driver assessment and training is a continuous process.

Following many years of neglect, partly due to uncertainty surrounding major city centre redevelopment, Preston Central Bus Station was awarded listed status due to its striking 1960s brutalist design and concrete structure.

In April 2014, ownership was passed from Preston City Council to LCC, which has pledged to invest between £15m - £20m in its re-design. Though some uncertainty remains regarding city centre access, the refurbishment of the bus station is very much long overdue.

reliable and value-for-money commercial network of bus services. The company has also successfully introduced tendered operations outside its core area of the Lancashire city of Preston. Recently tendered operations have extended to Blackpool, Chorley, Croston, Fleetwood, Myerscough and Wigan. Commercially, PBL continues to co-exist with Stagecoach, which also operates a value for money urban and inter-urban network in and around Preston.

During 2014 Preston Bus set up an outstation at Blackpool and gained several school contracts in the Fylde and Wyre coast area, enhanced by the award of a contract on behalf of Blackpool & Fylde College. Following cuts within Lancashire County Council (LCC) budgets, PBL stepped in to advise and co-ordinate a package of bespoke transport services on behalf of Myerscough College. The aim

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

61

preston bus.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 11:05 Page 62

BUS & COACH: PRESTON BUS

62

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

preston bus.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 11:05 Page 63

BUS & COACH: PRESTON BUS

As part of the company’s commitment to staff development and mentoring, the successful engineering apprenticeship scheme, in association with Manchester College, was highlighted by success at the national IRTE Skills Challenge in Bristol’s S&B Automotive Academy. Teams of technicians and apprentices from PBL, Abellio, Arriva, FirstGroup, GoAhead London, Go South Coast, London United, Metroline, Tower Transit, and Translink competed in skill tests at IRTE Skills Challenge 2014.

THE VISION IS VERY MUCH BASED ON PRIDE, RESPECT, ACHIEVEMENT AND PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

www.prestonbus.co.uk Tel: 01772 253671

www.tandlonline.com

Every employee competing was a credit to themselves and the company, and three PBL representatives beat technicians and apprentices from across the UK to win top awards. Mark Rawcliffe won the Top Scoring Bodywork Apprentice Award, Adam Geddes walked away with the Top Scoring DVSA Inspection Technician Award, while Daniel Kitchen took the runner-up DVSA Inspection Apprentice Award. The recognition was particularly satisfying for the business given it was the first time such an event had been entered and its staff were competing against the finest from major national groups.

Recently the company’s environmental endeavours

have been significantly enhanced by its various carbon reduction and energy efficiency measures. The introduction of hybrid vehicles has reduced its fuel bill by over 30% for comparable vehicles and the Vickers computer controlled workshop heating system has saved £29k annually, reducing CO2 emissions by 184 tonnes. This is supported by EcoManager telematics, fitted to 85 conventionally aspirated diesel engine vehicles and Actia telematics fitted to its hybrid fleet. Total carbon emission savings of over 1,000 tonnes have been achieved in the last few years.

Fiona Whalley, Marketing Manager, says, “The vision is very much based on pride, respect, achievement and personal responsibility. These are the basic ingredients for the company to grow in stature and strive towards excellence. Whilst Preston Bus benefits from Group dynamics, it is also proactively led to take the important local decisions required.”

The future is distinctly bright for PBL. It has already begun to enlarge its traditional customer base through local authority tendering and has diversified by introducing fleet maintenance for large companies. This ongoing success has seen PBL achieve a number of awards in recent years including the Lancashire Be Inspired Business Awards’ (BIBAs) Green Business of the Year 2012, Leadership Team of the Year 2013, and Service Business of the Year 2014. It also took top prize at the Lancashire Evening Post sponsored Lancashire Green Awards in 2013.

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

63

horseman.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 16:03 Page 64

BUS & COACH: HORSEMAN COACHES

GROWTH INSPIRING WORKFORCE Consistent levels of quality and reliability have made 2014 another good year for Horseman Coaches hen James Horseman was younger, he took pride in seeing his family name on the company’s coaches. But on taking over the business, he faced ‘a perfect storm’. The company’s land was subject to a compulsorily purchase order (CPO) to make way for road improvements, the recession hit, fuel prices rose and a profitable business posted its first loss in 34 years.

There was a real prospect the company would be sold and it wasn’t a legacy James wanted. “We had to act quickly and be aggressive so we invested heavily when people were tightening their purse strings,” he recalls. “We invested in new coaches, promoted ourselves and targeted key markets. We recruited a business development manager and a new traffic manager, and with hard work it came to fruition. As a result, the business has been revived, trading particularly well for the last three years and I sleep much better at night.”

The business has been transformed from one that started in 1977 operating shuttle services and private hire, developing into the area’s largest operator with a scheduled holiday division. The

W

64

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

horseman.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 16:03 Page 65

BUS & COACH: HORSEMAN COACHES focus now is on school transport, corporate shuttle services and private tours both UK and European.

The fleet has grown from forty vehicles three years ago to 65 now and, as James emphasises, is unusual for its market: “We bring a level of quality and reliability not seen in the school sector. We operate new vehicles with real-time tracking and telemetry, CCTV systems, Euro 5 and 6 engines, climate control and toilets.

We’ve modernised our fleet, made it more consistent and, because we operate these high-end executive coaches, we actually over-cater for the school market but that’s a key selling point.”

Growth has largely resulted from targeted marketing, rebranding to raise the company’s profile and heavy investment in the fleet and technology. The latter mainly introduced vehicle tracking that identifies every vehicle’s location, gives information on driving efficiency and, according to James, transformed a once turbulent traffic office into a calm environment. “The system’s efficiency and accuracy cascades down through our operation,” he says. “We can monitor every vehicle from our desk and we’ve allowed cus-

OVER THE LAST THREE YEARS, WE’VE GONE FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH WITH ONE SIMPLE GOAL IN MIND; BE BETTER THAN YESTERDAY. tomers to track their own coaches. It helps reduce wear and tear on vehicles and has reduced our carbon footprint.”

Bad driving tendencies are corrected using one of hundreds of bespoke training modules such as 'Safe & Efficient Driving' and 'Hazard Perception' That helps Horsemans maintain standards, which also include an emphasis on friendliness that‘s important when dealing with school children. Their intention is to do more than the minimum and "go the extra mile", which keeps Horseman Coaches as a name people can trust.

The resulting growth is inspiring the workforce and has, in an industry generally short of labour, attracted young, fresh and ambitious new drivers. That bodes well for the future although James believes it’s impractical to plan too far ahead: “Every time I make a plan, some random event conspires to make it no longer applicable or possible. Over the last three years, we’ve gone from strength to strength with one simple goal in mind; be better than yesterday.This has created clarity, focus and energy on a daily basis and I take stock of the business periodically to ensure we’re heading in a direction that will deliver sustainability and longevity. It's what we do today that defines our future.”

www.horsemancoaches.co.uk Telephone: 0118 9753811

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

65

ac williams.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 10:11 Page 66

BUS & COACH: A.C. WILLIAMS

ATTENTIVE, COST EFFECTIVE TRAVEL Catering for every possible requirement with a diverse and modern fleet riginally formed in 1953 as a motor engineer and agricultural machinery repair business, A.C. Williams obtained its first contract for the transportation of schoolchildren in the 1960s.This initial service followed an approach from Ancaster Primary School which required transportation for three children from a local farm to school.

It’s the definition of “small beginnings” as A.C.Williams has progressed dramatically from that initial “school run” for three. The company now has a fleet of 32 vehicles ranging from mini buses, ex-London transport double deckers and the pride of its fleet - seven state of the art Scania Irizar PB's, two executive double decker coaches and three wheelchair accessible coaches.

O

66

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

The diverse nature of the A.C. Williams fleet gives it the opportunity to cater for every possible requirement from its customers, be it private hire, corporate contracts or its ever-expanding tour programme. From the outset, its goal has been to provide the best possible travelling experience at a reasonable price. Its enviable reputation and another successful year in 2014 suggests the company is achieving its goals.

Certainly, the high levels of service provided by A.C. Williams has not gone unnoticed. Marie Scoffield, who enjoyed one of the company’s day excursions said, “Had a lovely day out at Crich tram village and museum today. Well worth a visit and Colin, our driver, was very helpful and courteous.”

Annette Murison, who privately hired a coach and

www.tandlonline.com

ac williams.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 10:11 Page 67

BUS & COACH: A.C. WILLIAMS

driver for a private function was equally impressed.

“Would just like to say thank you for the great service you gave us on the 1st September for my daughters wedding,” she said, adding, “Your driver was excellent and she took such great care of our elderly relatives assisting them on and off the coach.”

A look at the fleet reveals some exciting inclusions such as the Neoplan Skyliner, a 75-seat full executive double decker luxury coach with CD/DVD player and four video screens, two tables in lower deck, toilet, servery and climate control. There’s also the gorgeous Scania Irizar PB, a 49-seat full executive tri-axle luxury coach which can be converted to 43 seats with four tables.

Indeed, Scania forms the bulk of A.C. Williams’ luxury fleet with the standout being the Scania Irizar PBs, 49-seat full executive luxury coaches with WC, fridge, hot drinks machine, climate control and CD/DVD player. The company also has a Scania Irizar Century, a 51seat full executive tri-axle luxury coach.

For smaller vehicles, A.C. Williams favours Optare’s Alero which has 16 seats with air-conditioning and wheelchair access.The mini-coach can accommodate five wheelchairs comfortably with its total capacity reducing from 16 seats to 14. The company also has a Toyata Optimo, a 22-seat mini coach with air conditioning. www.acwcoaches.co.uk Tel: 01400 230491

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

67

moffat.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 10:08 Page 68

BUS & COACH: MOFFAT & WILLIAMSON

OVER 65 YEARS OF SUCCESS Providing the highest possible level of service to all customers whether on school contract, private hire, tour or a local service

offat & Williamson Ltd has a longestablished reputation for quality thanks to its attention to detail and the highest levels of customer service. Formed after the Second World War, the business was founded when Moffat & Sons of Cardenden and Williamsons of Gauldry joined forces. From its base in Fife, the company has more than 65 years experience delivering high standards of bus and coach services via its modern, diverse fleet of vehicles.

M 68

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

Moffat & Williamson’s mission remains no different than when it was first founded: to provide the highest possible level of service to all customers whether on school contract, private hire, tour or a local service; providing safe, clean, comfortable and affordable travel to all.

The company undertakes a wide variety of jobs and is happy to work with customers to discuss any requirements they may have. Friendly staff are always on hand to assist and organise journeys, no matter the distance.

www.tandlonline.com

moffat.qxp_feature 2 16/01/2015 10:08 Page 69

BUS & COACH: MOFFAT & WILLIAMSON The diverse fleet operated by Moffat & Williamson includes over 30 vehicles with seating capacity's ranging from 33, 49, 53, 57 and 70. All are fitted with seatbelts, some with three-point fittings and some with height adjustable fittings suitable for small children.

Moffat & Williamson’s luxury coaches vary in size and are used for both British and continental tours.

Each coach is fitted with a PA system, DVD player, reclining seats, seat/lap belts, hot drinks dispenser, toilet and air conditioning. The mini coaches are available in 33 seats. These have proven very popular for smaller groups wishing to have a day trip or a mini-break.

They are also available for airport transfers, weddings or general private hire.

To maintain service standards and safety, all Moffat & Williamson drivers are P.V.G. disclosure checked and are trained to operate Wheelchair Access Vehicles safely.

Furthermore, they receive Driver CPC training annually.

The company has every reason to look positively

FRIENDLY STAFF ARE ALWAYS ON HAND TO ASSIST AND ORGANISE JOURNEYS to the future. After a strong year in 2014, Moffat & Williamson has been encouraged to continue its stable growth, invest to make improvements where necessary, and offer staff development opportunities to drive performance and maintain standards.

Reputation is one thing but it matters little if you are not able to fulfil the desires of the customer.

Moffat & Williamson from Fife has proven it is able to deliver on its promise, time and time again. www.moffat-williamson.co.uk Tel: 01382 541159 / 01592 774785

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

69

r robertsons.qxp_feature 2 14/01/2015 10:50 Page 70

BUS & COACH: R. ROBERTSONS

IT TAKES A LOT OF HARD WORK TO MAINTAIN OUR HIGH STANDARDS...

WORKING TOGETHER AS A TEAM IS ALSO VITAL

DRIVEN BY EXPERIENCE A family run transport and garage services company whose name is now synonymous with quality, value for money & reliability

70

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

. Robertson & Son continues to go from strength to strength. The family run business, which was founded by former seaman Robbie Robertson in 1947, has witnessed three generations of the Robertson family oversee its development and success in the years since.

Now a recognised transport operator and garage services company, the family name has become synonymous with quality, value for money and reliability.

The last 12 months have seen the compa-

R

ny develop its capability with the addition of seven coaches and six drivers, as well as an additional mechanic and apprentice mechanic.

Granddaughter of founder Robbie, Sonia Robertson, who is now the company’s general manager, says the firm has never been busier. With the addition of vehicles and staff, R. Robertson & Son has opened an extra operating centre on the mainland of Shetland, and acquired a number of new local council contracts, while dramatically increasing its private hire service. “It takes a lot of hard work to maintain

www.tandlonline.com

r robertsons.qxp_feature 2 14/01/2015 10:50 Page 71

BUS & COACH: R. ROBERTSONS our high standards,” says Sonia, who reveals operations are constantly reviewed to discover areas ripe for improvement. This has helped the business find new ways to develop and move forward. “Working together as a team is also vital, while clean, smart vehicles and our family run business attitude is also key.We’re reliable and go that extra mile to help in any way we can.”

Indeed, one of the ways Robertsons has tried to improve in recent years is through reducing its carbon emissions. “We have acquired brand new vehicles to be more energy efficient and more environmentally friendly. We are always coordinating our daily running to get the maximum amount of work covered while keeping any dead miles to an absolute minimum,” explains Sonia.

“Our reliability and also environmental friendliness has its part to play in our workshop by keeping our vehicles regularly serviced and well maintained which is critical to our operations.”

Drivers are also supported through regular meetings and training where necessary. Passenger

www.tandlonline.com

feedback has aided this process and improvements have been made through various proactive initiatives. For example, an underperforming driver may be monitored whilst on the road in order to offer additional training and advice.

The Robertsons fleet is made up of a mixture of Volvo’s and Mercedes vehicles. This includes a Volvo Vanhool B12M, Volvo Plaxton Profiles B7R’s, a Mercedes Sprinter 516 Evm Avantgarde, a Volvo Vanhool B10M, and Mercedes 814 Coach Conversion.

“We can’t see past the Volvo product for our larger vehicles. We get a great service here and our workshop manager has been trained in Volvo coaches since 1987. The reliability we have with Volvo is superb. Their machines are strong and reliable and we know they will meet our demands.

For our smaller coaches we find Mercedes to be a tough, reliable product that can do our jobs well and again we can’t see past them.”

Sonia feels it’s important that maintenance is kept in-house to aid service capability and, impor-

tantly, reliability. “Our maintenance is all internal which means we have mechanics to hand.

However, there is a far greater pride and interest in looking after your own fleet and it fills the drivers with confidence knowing the mechanics are on hand and can be spoken to directly.”

Vehicles are reviewed on an annual basis and updated depending on their current use and future demands. Vehicles can be kept in service for anything up to ten years if they prove consistent and reliable. Certainly, the company has seen benefits from the new Euro 6 specification with improvements in both fuel economy and carbon emissions.

Sonia is understandably excited about the future. She hopes to oversee further expansion outside the company’s home island while new job opportunities are expected as R. Robertson & Son continues its impressive growth. rrobertsonandson.com Tel: 01957 766 766

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

71

BVRLA.qxp_feature 2 06/01/2015 14:42 Page 72

HIRE & LEASING : BVRLA

72

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

BVRLA.qxp_feature 2 06/01/2015 14:42 Page 73

HIRE & LEASING: BVRLA

PROMOTING RESPONSIBLE ROAD TRANSPORT

The BVRLA is the trade body for the vehicle rental and leasing sector ehicle rental and leasing companies buy 82% of UK-manufactured vehicles sold in this country, making a £2.4 billion contribution to GDP and supporting 52,000 jobs. That means BVRLA, which is the trade body for companies engaged in the leasing and rental of cars and commercial vehicles, has a very significant role to play.

The association was formed in 1967 to ‘encourage, promote and protect the interests’ of the industry. It now has more than 500 member companies that operate around 3.3 million cars, vans and trucks, representing the interests of more than two million car drivers and millions of others who use a rental car each year.

Help for members is provided through a series of activities that include ensuring new regulations and legislation are fair by lobbying the UK and EU governments and working with agencies, industry associations and business influencers on key issues.

BVRLA also provides a range of training courses and accreditations, runs forums and offers various products that include risk management tools, a vehicle mileage database, guides and a recruitment service.

High standards are maintained by ensuring members adhere to a code of conduct that requires them to provide safe and roadworthy vehicles, give clear and accurate information and generally deliver the best standards of service to their customers. Backing that up is a quality assurance programme that carries out random inspections of vehicles, with a particularly thorough inspection of commercial vehicle premises, and a conciliation service to help customers

V

www.bvrla.co.uk Tel: 01494 545700

www.tandlonline.com

resolve disputes.

Recent achievements have included persuading the Department of Transport to relax CPC requirements for those driving short distances as an incidental part of their job, removing a burden for most rental and leasing staff. It’s also boosted the profile of the sector through commissioning a report that demonstrates the contribution it makes to the UK economy, persuaded the FCA to classify vehicle leasing broking as a low risk activity and prevented a reduction in the 50% VAT reclaimable on leased cars used privately and for business amongst other successes.

All that activity has contributed to the BVRLA being rated as delivering good or very good value for money by 96% of respondents in its 2013 member survey.The membership is growing and saw the acquisition of the first rental broker member in 2013 to broaden the association’s representation, with ambitions to expand the number of members even further.

The BVRLA is currently working with the DVLA as it seeks to modernise its services and has recommended improvements that could save the government £19 million and businesses £22 million each year. It’s also working with the government to deliver a fairer system of taxation to provide incentives for the use of low emission vehicles, is attempting to reduce insurance costs, participating in the development of a new London ultra-low emission zone, launching two quarterly surveys to provide up-todate research on the sector and encouraging increased membership engagement including proactive discussions about key issues.

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

73

northgate.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:53 Page 74

HIRE & LEASING: NORTHGATE VEHICLE HIRE

REDEFINING THE VAN HIRE MARKET 74

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

northgate.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:53 Page 75

HIRE & LEASING: NORTHGATE VEHICLE HIRE

Northgate Vehicle Hire offers the first truly national and flexible vehicle rental solution ver the past thirty years, Northgate Vehicle Hire has shaped and defined the van hire market by offering the UK’s first truly national and flexible vehicle rental solution.“With no contract, there is complete flexibility for our customers, which helps,” proclaims Jonathan Pearce, Head of Marketing. “With Northgate, companies can add or remove vehicles as and when their needs change with no penalty.”

O

OUR BREAKDOWN SUPPORT SERVICE IS MANAGED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UK’S LEADING BREAKDOWN PROVIDER, THE AA

www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk Telephone: 0844 2348030

www.tandlonline.com

Since its formation in 1981, Northgate has grown to become a national company with a rental fleet of 55,000 vehicles and 73 branches across the UK and Ireland. As a light commercial vehicle (LCV) specialist, the fleet comprises mainly of panel vans but they also offer tippers, dropsides, minibuses, a range of cars and specialist vehicles such as welfare vans, utility specification and high payload vehicles to meet the varying needs of over

7,000 clients. Their broad customer base is made up of sole traders and SMEs to blue chip corporates.

The success hasn’t simply been based on offering a flexible service, as Jonathan confirms: “With our evergrowing national network, we can get vehicles to customers quicker than our competitors.We can guarantee a vehicle from our core fleet within four hours when a customer is within 25 miles of a branch. This is because we understand how important it is that our customers can stay on the road, earning money. In the unfortunate event of a breakdown, we attend the scene within 45 minutes and fix 82% of vehicles by the roadside. We aim to get all customers back on the road within 2.5 hours, providing a replacement vehicle when recovery is necessary. We never leave our customers stranded.”

The company concentrates on doing much more than simply renting vans and cars, its primary aim being to keep businesses on the road so they can carry out activities and grow their core business profitably. That means providing a service in a flexible, risk free and reliable manner. “Servicing, non-fault maintenance and repair are included in our agreement, with all maintenance events scheduled through our own workshops at a time and location that minimises disruption,” explains Jonathan. “Our breakdown support service is managed in partnership with the UK’s leading breakdown provider, the AA. In addition, our dedicated

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

75

northgate.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:53 Page 76

HIRE & LEASING: NORTHGATE VEHICLE HIRE

76

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

northgate.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:53 Page 77

HIRE & LEASING: NORTHGATE VEHICLE HIRE

Customer Support Centre provides an excellent central resource for any customer queries, helping us to fix issues as quickly as possible and reduce inconvenience.”

Vehicle reliability is ensured through a network of wholly owned workshops with FTA approved technicians where the maintenance of all vehicles is proactively managed. That’s backed up by relationships with national third party networks to make sure vehicles are serviced and maintained with minimum inconvenience.

The service overall is designed to meet customers’ needs. Quarterly customer satisfaction surveys ensure there’s a focus on improving what is important to those customers and this has led to a significant increase in the company’s Net Promoter Score over the last eighteen months.

Customer service levels are supported by continuous employee training and development which is designed to place the customer at the heart of the operations. “We also listen to our employees’ needs and regularly review to make sure they have the tools and processes in place

www.tandlonline.com

to deliver the best service to our customers,” remarks Jonathan. “Recently launched Customer Service NVQ courses available to all staff are helping develop our employees’ skills, as we further our commitment to continuous customer service improvement.”

New PDAs have also been rolled out, incorporating the latest smart phone platform and software. These allow the company to manage the on and off hire process more efficiently at branches and when undertaking deliveries and collections. Vehicle information is updated in real-time at handover so it can be shared with customers quickly, efficiently and accurately.

Customer feedback ensures Northgate invests in the company in the way that cus-

tomers want it to do. That’s recently included an £80 million investment into new vehicles, which will see Northgate increase its fleet from 55,000 to 60,000 by the end of this financial year.

Significant investment into its national network has seen Northgate open seven new branches over the past twelve months. A further eighteen branches are planned up to 2016 and will, believes Jonathan, lead to greater success: “We want to continue to grow our business, get closer to our customers and be the first choice for LCV acquisition in the UK. We have a plan to open more branches in the UK and Ireland where we see opportunities and we will continue to invest in our employees and in providing the best possible service to our customers.”

QUARTERLY CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEYS ENSURE THERE’S A FOCUS ON IMPROVING WHAT IS IMPORTANT

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

77

man.qxp_feature 2 14/01/2015 18:32 Page 78

HIRE & LEASING: MAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

“

A Proud funder and supporter of MAN truck and Bus, MAN Financial Services delivers a high quality portfolio of industry-leading solutions...

“

78

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

aving transacted approximately £1.5bn for MAN in its first 10 years of operation, MAN Financial Services is a proud funder, and supporter of MAN Truck and Bus in the company's ability to delivering a high quality, adaptable and innovative portfolio of industry-leading solutions. With the company having now served MAN Truck and Bus for 15 years and fast approaching the £2bn benchmark, the sheer gravity of supporting MAN Truck and Bus in extending the company's capacity to offer flexible and innovative solutions for the transport industry cannot be overlooked.

H

www.tandlonline.com

man.qxp_feature 2 14/01/2015 18:32 Page 79

HIRE & LEASING: MAN FINANCIAL SERVICES

s e c i v r e S l a i c Finan Serving as the UK subsidiary of MAN Finance International, an enterprise of the Volkswagen Group which belongs to industryreputed suppliers of products and services to the transport, drive systems and energy sectors, MAN Financial Service offers a range of its own financial services in support of trucks and buses for MAN Truck and Bus. Over the years the company has risen to many of the challenges in regulatory requirements and displays a portfolio of financial products and strict Anti Money Laundering and FCA requirements which have received much acclaim of late. With a dedicated Business Development Manager team which works directly with mem-

www.tandlonline.com

bers of the MAN Truck and Bus team, MAN Financial Services has become an integral part of the MAN Truck and Bus service delivery as its own direct services: “We believe all of our customers should be met face to face to truly understand their requirements and tailor efficient business solutions. It's small wonder that MFS is the Benchmark truck financing company funding over more than 50% of all new and used MAN Truck and Buses in the UK year in year out,” explains Peter Collins, MAN Financial Services CEO. At last year's 2014 CV Show, Peter also announced the launch of MAN Financial Services' latest service development, MAN

insurance: “We have found increasing interest over the recent 18 months in the availability of MAN insurance packages for our Truck, Bus and Coach operators; much of this has come to us through our colleagues in MAN Fleet Management Systems. There have been tremendous advances in their telematics' technology and forward facing cameras, and usage among our operators means we are now able to offer some of the very best, cost-effective fleet insurance policies. Key to all this, of course, is that more and more insurance companies seem to be recognising the potential value, both to them and their customers, of the incident and accident analytics delivered by these systems.”

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

79

man.qxp_feature 2 14/01/2015 18:32 Page 80

man.qxp_feature 2 14/01/2015 18:32 Page 81

HIRE & LEASING: MAN FINANCIAL SERVICES Established as a complimentary service for MAN customers to maximise the benefits which MAN customers are able to reap from Man Fleet Management Technologies' services, the insurance programme is being run by insurance product and services specialist, C & C Insurance. So far, progress for the programme has been positive, with great response from the customer base on which Peter commented: “We’ve had a lot of enquiries, but don’t expect an immediate flood of policies until operators’ current insurance packages come up for annual renewal. However, we are confident that we are well placed to establish a strong presence in the insurance market over the coming years.” Though insurance is a new area for MAN Financial Services, the company has taken a very forward-thinking, informed and ambitious approach to the programme through utilising telematics and cameras to both act as a reliable method or assessing the validity of insurance claims and reduce direct insurance premiums.

Not only has MAN Financial Services made great progress in developing further services and systems to support end-clients, but the company has also had great success in adapting its solutions to the needs and requirements of customers. Peter explains this further: “Certainly when a customer arrives at the end of his contract flexibility is key in managing the replacement cycle of our customers fleets - nothing is too difficult - present a problem and we will find a solution to achieve customer satisfaction.”

Additionally, in supporting such flexible systems, MAN Financial Services encourages face-to-face consultancy whenever possible, as through speaking with customers directly has proven to be the most effective way of understanding customer needs and how best to serve them. This approach has garnered the company a great reputation for offering a friendly and personal service unlike many of its competitors and has led to the increased trust and reliance afforded to the company from such customers.

Looking to the future, Peter explains how, through now being part of the Volkswagen Group, the company will benefit from the sheer volume of doors opened through such a large and reputable organisation: “There are huge opportunities to leverage upon their critical mass and innovative solutions to bring new comprehensive opportunities for the operators of MAN Truck and Bus.” www.man-finance.co.uk

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

81

iata.qxp_feature 2 09/01/2015 12:14 Page 82

IATA: CARGO 2000 (C2K)

C2K

MORE RELEVANT TODAY THAN EVER Guillaume Drucy, Head of Cargo e-Business Management and Executive Director of C2K, demonstrates how Cargo 2000 is improving the quality of air cargo.

ounded in 1997 as an IATA interest group by leading forwarders and airlines, Cargo 2000, or ‘C2K’ as it is now commonly known, aims to address a critical need of air cargo: being able to better monitor and manage the end-to-end transit of air cargo shipments from shipper to consignee.

Air cargo shipments are typically ‘touched’ by many parties through their transit – shippers, forwarders, handlers, airlines, truckers - each with their own systems and processes, typically not geared towards sharing information with external partners. As a consequence there is often no way for one party in the chain to know what is happening to the shipments before or after them. As a consequence, shippers often view air cargo as a kind of ‘black box’, with little-to-no visibility.

C2K addresses this through a simple but powerful approach: for each shipment, a detailed ‘route map’ is created where key steps of the transit, such as planned flight, time of arrival, and availability for pick up, are clearly defined using a common language. The shipment is then monitored and the completion of each of these milestones shared between all parties.

F

Guillaume Drucy

82

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

iata.qxp_feature 2 09/01/2015 12:14 Page 83

IATA: CARGO 2000 (C2K)

With this approach, deviations from the plan can be identified, recovery actions can be taken, the overall performance of each party can be monitored, and service level agreements as well as joint performance improvement initiatives can be defined.

This is a clear improvement vs. traditional air cargo, and as a consequence, C2K continues to grow, with a total of 79 members at the end of September.

Recent joiners include Avianca, China Airlines, China Cargo Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines, among others.

More than 800,000 shipments are now monitored monthly on Airport-to-Airport performance and more than 400,000 for Door-to-Door.

A PLATFORM FOR THE FUTURE C2K development has not all been smooth flying. The initiative has sometimes been perceived as a closed club reserved for large organisations, geared towards measurement of performance vs. bilaterally agreed

THERE ARE MORE ORGANISATIONS IMPLEMENTING C2K TODAY THAN AT ANY TIME IN THE LAST FEW YEARS service levels, rather than overall performance vs. commonly agreed industry benchmarks. That is partly true. C2K’s success to date is indeed greatly built around members’ ability to measure ‘delivery as promised’ performance on the basis of ‘offsets’ from individual milestones. This unique feature ensures that the performance measured corresponds to that individual company’s commitment to their customers.The C2K Board understands these challenges and is committed to the modernization and improvement of C2K in this and other aspects. Therefore, going forward, C2K can and will, also be geared towards the measurement of industry key metrics. Statistics such as door-to-door transit time, or airport-to-airport total transit time, as well as average time for freight availability after arrival have been identified as new measurements for C2K to build that will be useful for individual members and the industry overall.

Another change is the recognition of the Industry Master Operating Plan (or ‘Industry MOP’), a document developed and maintained by C2K, as a Recommended Practice by IATA as well as other key industry associations such as TIACA, the Cool Chain Association (CCA), the Airport Services Association (ASA) and ULD Care. This makes the Industry MOP

www.tandlonline.com

the only recognised, industry-wide, systematic, step-by-step description of the end-toend air transportation process. It is now available freely to all participants in the supply chain, and is expected to drive air cargo standardisation around top quality standards.

The industry has been noticing the new C2K developments, and there are more organisations implementing C2K today than at any time in the last few years. And this is just the start. The goal is to establish an air cargo process where shippers and all other participants can have full visibility and control of their shipments from end-to-end.This is what shippers want and only with such an approach can we hope to realise IATA’s new challenge to reduce the average end-toend cargo transport times by 48 hours. More work is needed like, for example, defining standard methods to capture proof of delivery (POD) data as part of the end-to-end process. But it is clear that a modernised C2K is the tool by which we can make this interconnected, transparent vision happen, and a tool that, already today, drives quality up and enables interoperability among players in air cargo. This means that, more than ever, C2K is part of air cargo’s future. If you have not joined C2K yet, now is the time!

cargo20002@iata.org www.iata.org

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

83

massey.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:11 Page 84

AGRICULTURAL: MASSEY BROTHERS FEEDS

FEEDING THE MASSEYS

With 125 years of experience in the agricultural feeds and farm services Massey Feeds has played an integral role in sustaining and developing the modern day food chain.

84

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

massey.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:11 Page 85

AGRICULTURAL: MASSEY BROTHERS FEEDS

s a family run business with over 125 years of experience in the agricultural feeds and farm services sector, Massey Feeds has played an integral role in sustaining and developing the modern day food chain. In ensuring the production of the most wholesome and safe food products, Massey Feeds is at the forefront of animal welfare, environmental responsibility and technological innovation to maintain high production standards.

The first record of Massey's operations are dated back to 1878 and was operated by Edward Massey who had four sons: Harry, Edward, Tom and John. Since then the company has continued to grow through success over generations of Massey family members who have taken leading roles in the company. Today, Massey Feeds has the same approach to service and quality which it did at foundation and as can be expected from such a family-oriented company. Having now achieved a size at which the company possesses the broad range of skills, knowledge and expertise to offer innovative and flexible, tailor-made solutions for customers who may have specific needs or requirements. “We are still a family business that understands the importance of

A

www.tandlonline.com

looking after our customers,� explains the company.

Massey Feeds Transport looks after the delivery of feed from farms which, as the company understands the critical element of timing. Through utilising its network of wagon fleet and one or two external hauliers, Massey Feeds endeavours to ensure consistency in service delivery within the required time scales. In total the company operated 24 wagons which includes vehicles from 14t 6 wheelers up to 26t articulated vehicles to allow for variety and specialisation in the service potential of the company.

With additional and extensive training, Massey Feeds Transport is also able to ensure that all UFAS and FTA standards are met whilst ensuring consistency in service standards and the capabilities of its drivers.

As a result, the company has won a series of awards including the Best Fleet in Show award at the Shropshire Truck Festival in 2013, trumping over a competition of almost 400 other vehicles.

As a result of the 2001 study which examined the feeding system for Massey's cows in the UK known as Feed into Milk for Lactating cows by DEFRA LINK, Massey Feeds took it upon itself to redevelop its dairy range and adapt to the findings of the study; as a result

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

85

massey.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:11 Page 86

massey.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:11 Page 87

AGRICULTURAL: MASSEY BROTHERS FEEDS

the FiMLAC range was established with the two founding principals that: it can be backed up by good, sound scientific studies and that the amounts used in the feeds will be the same as in the trials. “If something is worth doing, it is worth doing properly, not as 'marketing doses',” explains the company.

The FiMLAC range itself is a top energy designed to be fed to high yielding, high genetic-potential cows in a bid

THE COMPANY HAS WON A SERIES OF AWARDS INCLUDING THE BEST FLEET IN SHOW

www.masseyfeeds.co.uk Tel: 01477 536300

www.tandlonline.com

for the company to improve fertility levels, overall wellbeing and even the quality of milk produced by the cow.

This is achieved through formulating a solution based upon the protein which the cow is naturally built to utilise instead of crude protein equivalent which would be deemed less efficient and essentially less supportive of the cow's well-being and subsequent milk produce. In addition, Massey also have a number of other ranges which are also built to purpose such as the SuperLac range, ExtraLac range and ProMilk range which each suit different yields and purpose of cows as well as whether quality is prioritised over cost or visa versa.

Explaining the benefits of the changes made through

the FiMLAC range, Massey Feeds states: “Using these principals has led to more products fitting into the range, to compliment the dairy feeds – FiMLAC Dry Cow Rolls, FiMLAC Formula CMR & SMP and FiMLAC Sweet Start Pellets. All are formulated on the best available practice and contain various tried and tested nutritional additives that stand up to any scrutiny.”

Additionally, Massey Feeds also offers forage sample services using its own Near Infra-Red Reflectance Spectroscopy machine, allowing the company to closely monitor quality levels for all incoming feed materials and the resulting products before going to market. As one of the only five UK compound feed manufacturers serving as member of the Forage Analytical Assurance group (FAA). Which standardises the methods of analysis and reduce between-laboratory variations as a result. This means that samples sent to any FAA members would receive similar to, or the same results as one another and provide consistent, reliable results.

Detailing the work which the company undertakes for analysis, it explains: “We carry out hundreds of grass silage, maize silage and whole crop silage analyses each year as well as fresh grass tests. These are a valuable tool to assess the potential from grazing in the key summer months. We can also test customers own wheat, barley, beans and other crops for their nutritional value (just as we do on incoming feed materials) as well as some home mixes.”

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

87

drysdale.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:14 Page 88

AWARDS: DRYSDALE FREIGHT

AWARD WINNING SERVICE High quality standards, personal service and a keen focus on customer satisfaction demonstrate why Drysdale recently won ‘Best Trailer Fleet’ rysdale Freight was celebrating this month after winning Scotland’s Best Trailer Fleet at the annual Transport News Scottish Rewards. The specialist general haulage, distribution and warehousing business from Cockburnspath, was delighted to end a successful year with the highly coveted accolade.

Running a business successfully isn’t just about increasing the turnover and achieving a profit.

Sometimes there are other considerations, such as family values, providing a quality service and rewarding loyalty. That’s why numerous attempts to buy Drysdale Freight have been resisted; there

D 88

are employees who have worked for the company for thirty years, numerous long-term customers and a pride in the business, and they all have to be taken into account.

Drysdale Freight offers a full range of haulage, freight, distribution and logistics services throughout the UK and Europe to safely and efficiently convey a customer’s goods to the end user. Services can be tailored to suit a wide variety of businesses and the company has a core speciality in the distribution of fresh and frozen produce. It also offers dedicated contractual work and can operate vehicles in specific livery to suit requirements.

The company has been built upon strong foundations after many years of providing high

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

quality standards, personal service and customer satisfaction. It strives to provide the very best service that is tailored to a customer’s exact requirements from initial collection of goods, through to the final point of delivery. Drysdale’s operational activity, fleet management and fleet compliance is consistently kept to the very highest industry standards and the company is a full member of the Road Haulage Association and the Freight Transport Association.

The company’s recent awards success is the result of the pride that Drysdale takes in its work.

That pride sees a fleet that is not only kept well maintained to provide a reliable and environmentally efficient service but that looks good too, helping the company achieve its award-winning success.

It’s also a varied fleet comprising curtain siders, refrigerated vehicles, trailers with walking floor technology and low loaders, enabling many different types of work to be undertaken. A big element of the work is farm produce that varies

www.tandlonline.com

drysdale.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:14 Page 89

AWARDS: DRYSDALE FREIGHT

“RUNNING A BUSINESS SUCCESSFULLY ISN’T JUST ABOUT INCREASING THE TURNOVER AND ACHIEVING A PROFIT. SOMETIMES THERE ARE OTHER CONSIDERATIONS”

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

89

drysdale.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:15 Page 90

AWARDS: DRYSDALE FREIGHT

90

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

drysdale.qxp_feature 2 25/01/2015 15:15 Page 91

AWARDS: DRYSDALE FREIGHT throughout the year as the seasons change, which involves transporting produce from the grower to the processors for packaging and then out to the supermarket distribution centres in temperature controlled vehicles. Those same vehicles take flowers for growers to supermarkets.

Other work includes taking waste paper, plastic and cardboard to recycling centres, a contract to deliver saplings for planting nationwide at Forestry Commission locations, wind farm sites and for events such as the Chelsea Flower Show, and consigning bottled mineral water to supermarkets and independent local distributors.The latter contract often requires the storage of water at Drysdale’s 30,000 square foot warehouse, overcoming the problem of often impassable roads to the mineral water company when the winter weather closes in.

The warehouse is part of purpose built premises on an eight acre site at a cost of £1m. Also included there is a training facility, where the company provides CPC and fleet compliance training to its own drivers as well as those from other businesses, and a workshop for the servicing of the company’s vehicles but which is also open to the public.

The emphasis on training ensures everyone is kept up-to-date with industry changes and adds to the experience of the company’s dedicated workforce. They are encouraged to have a professional and flexible attitude to their work so they can overcome any challenges they encounter. The service is tailored to meet the specific needs of individual customers right from the initial collection of goods through to the final point of delivery.

Membership of the Road Haulage Association and the Freight Transport Association also ensure the company’s operational activity, fleet management and compliance are kept to the highest industry standards.

Drysdale’s business is helped by its location on the A1 near the border, which means it is handily placed for consignments throughout Scotland and regular runs to the North West of England, Lincolnshire, Norfolk and the Midlands. It’s also aided by the satellite tracking of all deliveries that provides up-to-date information on the departure and arrival of loads and is available to customers where required. However, that doesn’t extend to load scheduling where frequent changes to jobs and an intimate knowledge of customer needs mean manual monitoring and control are more effective.

Strict control is essential during times of high fuel costs and pressure on rates, so back loads are constantly sought to avoid empty running. The access to back loads is open to more companies these days due to their general availability through the internet so rates here have also been forced down. That has meant the company having to adapt, which is something it’s done since the start. The emphasis remains on providing a reliable service with high standards, keeping customers happy and maintaining Drysdale’s independence so the company’s 35 employees continue to be rewarded for their loyalty.

THE SERVICE IS TAILORED TO MEET THE SPECIFIC NEEDS OF INDIVIDUAL CUSTOMERS RIGHT FROM THE INITIAL COLLECTION OF GOODS THROUGH TO THE FINAL POINT OF DELIVERY

www.drysdalefreight.co.uk Tel: 01368 830 640

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

91

east lothian council.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:58 Page 92

AWARDS: EAST LOTHIAN COUNCIL

92

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

east lothian council.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:58 Page 93

AWARDS: EAST LOTHIAN COUNCIL

ABOVE AND BEYOND

With a focus on high quality staff training and attention to detail, it’s no wonder East Lothian Council have just won Scottish Local Authority Fleet Operator of the Year

inner of Scottish Local Authority Fleet Operator of the Year, East Lothian Council has successfully proven the capabilities of its fleet both throughout Scotland and even within the council itself. In winning the prestigious award, presented at the 2014 Transport News Scottish Rewards ceremony, East Lothian Council has been able to showcase some of the incredible work being done by all those working with the council's fleet, including many of the mechanics and fitters who have long-deserved recognition for their hard work.

Key to the success at the awards was the council's diligence in training and supporting the growth of the entire fleet team, including many who did not “Require” qualifications such as a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence but were still put through the relevant training to create a team which is skilled, qualified, experienced and most importantly of all, motivated by their own achievements. TV presenter Mary Rhodes, who presented the award to the council stated: “East Lothian Council regularly go above and beyond the call of duty to deliver exceptionally high standards to the 92,000 residents of their coastline county.”

Commenting on the decision behind the council putting through so many of its operatives through the training scheme, Ian Dalgleish, Transport Services Manager explained: “What we felt was that it's very difficult to provide relevant training for these vocational drivers without taking them away from a whole day just to do driving - they could become quite bored. We took this deci-

W

www.eastlothian.gov.uk

www.tandlonline.com

sion on board because it would allow them to maintain their HGV license as, strictly speaking they don't require it for the type of work that we do other than for half a dozen drivers. It was up to the drivers to fund their DCPC but the council decided to offer this training to anyone who was driving a vehicle above 3.5t.

That would then mean that if they were ever to leave the council that they would still have their driver CPC and allow them to move on if they wanted. But more importantly it gives the driver additional training to improve their own driving standards.”

It is often the case that highly skilled, experienced and hard working individuals on the ground level can be overlooked when assessing the successes of an organisation, especially a council and that is why the council's success at the 2014 award means so much to the team. Ian explained: “It certainly puts the transport section on a higher level within the council... For the mechanics and fitters they often don't get as much recognition for the work they're doing, yet with an award like this they actually do. It does wonders for team-building as well – they can see that they're getting somewhere.”

The Operator License Awareness Module within the DCPC has also been key to the council's success as an initiative which has not only assisted its operatives with further skills but also a greater knowledge of how the council's systems operate and the various implications of their work further up the hierarchy. Ian explained: “Although they have their vocational driving license and have passed their HGV license they have no idea of the responsibilities of the transport manager for the fleet of vehicles within the council and that

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

93

east lothian council.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:58 Page 94

AWARDS: EAST LOTHIAN COUNCIL

94

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

www.tandlonline.com

east lothian council.qxp_feature 2 15/01/2015 15:58 Page 95

AWARDS: EAST LOTHIAN COUNCIL gave them a large awareness of what the council was responsible for.”

Though this isn't the finish line for East Lothian Council by any means, as the council now looks to build upon its success at the awards and strives to continue developing its fleet team and associated systems, Ian detailed some further plans for future fleet developments and initiatives to build upon the council's success at the awards: “There's an IRTEC qualification for mechanics which I'm hoping to roll out in the new year and it just puts the mechanics and fitters on another level as far as their training and experience goes. Some other councils have gone down that line as well and it shows commitment by both employee and employer to attain a higher level with the training and experience.”

In addition to the great progress being made throughout the council's own team, additional strides have also been made in developing many of the council's systems in accordance with recent technological innovation. A large focal point for these developments has revolved around the acquisition of new diagnostic equipment for the council to move more of the diagnostic assessment and fault correction process internally as opposed to sending faulty vehicles away to suppliers. Through doing this, the council will be able to ensure consistent levels of service delivery as a result of a more closely managed maintenance and fault management approach.

Looking to the future, the council looks to continue developing its training systems so as to ensure that

all drivers are getting at least five different types of training throughout the five year period for their DCPC as well as the implementation of tracking systems and closer management of drivers across the board to maximise upon efficiencies and drive further success for the council – key to all of this remains teamwork though, as Ian explains that the award has proven the level of teamwork displayed within his own department, but due to this recognition he hopes to develop a wider teamwork scheme throughout the entire council and continue working together for a better future.

THE COUNCIL LOOKS TO CONTINUE DEVELOPING ITS TRAINING SYSTEMS SO AS TO ENSURE THAT ALL DRIVERS ARE GETTING AT LEAST FIVE DIFFERENT TYPES OF TRAINING THROUGHOUT THE FIVE YEAR PERIOD

www.tandlonline.com

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

95

looking forward.qxp_feature 2 08/01/2015 15:01 Page 96

Looking forward...

SKYLON ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD IN FOUR HOURS In Looking Forward, we take a brief look at today's innovators to find out where tomorrow's technology might take the world's transport system he Concorde is a distant memory for most, and a mysterious relic of once groundbreaking technology for others.

The supersonic jet was, before its unfortunate demise, the first choice of travel for those seeking ultimate luxury and ultra fast airborne travel.

London to New York was just a three and a half hour flight, for example.

Yet, through a combination of economic, social and political pressures, the Concorde was taken out of service. It wasn’t a viable form of transport anymore. The commercial aviation industry didn’t need small, super-fast aircraft, it needed bigger and bolder planes to carry more passengers. Now the industry is satisfying those needs with the likes of the double-decker Airbus

T

96

A380, there appears a small window of opportunity for something a little different.

Indeed, British aerospace firm Reaction Engines is currently working on a new commercial jet that will take passengers anywhere in the world in just four hours. Not only will London to Sydney take only the time it takes to watch a couple of movies on the plane but the advanced engine system will also allow the aircraft to enter outer space.

The system has been dubbed: SABRE. It’s a jet engine that doubles as a rocket. In commercial use, passengers would travel around the world at Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound. The Skylon, which is the teams proposed space plane would propel passengers into orbit

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

at 25 times the speed of sound.

The engine uses current technology but adds the addition of a precooler device which “breathes” in atmospheric air to be used in the engines. At an astronomical rate of 400 megawatts, air is cooled from 1,000 degrees Celsius to minus 150 degrees Celsius in just 0.1 seconds.

This overcomes the weight issue that has previously limited the design of aircraft designated for supersonic travel by reducing the amount of oxygen needed to be carried in propellant tanks.

Perhaps the Skylon’s biggest attribute isn’t its commercial flights but its ability, if the tests prove successful, to offer cost effective space travel. This could be for commercial or recreational use.

www.tandlonline.com

IBC:Layout 1 14/04/2014 12:43 Page 1

Project1_feature 2 13/11/2014 09:42 Page 32