Transport & Logistics Issue 155

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ISSUE 155

ISSUE 155

TRANSPORT &LOGISTICS

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MAGAZINE

D R I V I N G

T H E

I N D U S T R Y

F O R WA R D

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET

• general traffic • fix auto • garage equipment association

l a i c e Sp

attain travel - page 44

eis waste services - page 70

RH logistics - page 58

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WHO NEEDS THE DRIVER? ou might have qualms with the current government for a multitude of

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sins but you can’t fault their determination to see the UK lead the way in driverless cars. This spring the government will publish a code of practice that will allow the testing of autonomous cars to go ahead.

In Milton Keynes and Coventry, self-drive pods have been unveiled for the first time with the government promising a full review of current legislation by the summer of 2017. This will include changes to the Highway Code and MOT test guidelines which will feature a requirement for higher standards of driving in PUBLISHER: Noah Quirke GROUP EDITOR: Daniel Stephens EDITOR: Ciaran Jarosz MAGAZINE MANAGER: Shane Kelly FEATURE MANAGERS: Stefan Drakes Eddie Hunt Will Hewitt

automated vehicles.

Prof Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation, said: "These trials are not just about harnessing technology to make our travelling lives easier and safer, they also involve getting the regulation right.

"Alongside the hi-tech innovation you need policy decisions on long-term, low-tech matters such as who takes responsibility if things go wrong. As and when these vehicles become commonplace, there is likely to be a shift from personal to product liability and that is a whole new ball game for insurers and manufacturers."

ART EDITOR: Stacey Brewer

Transport minister Claire Perry, said: “Driverless vehicle technology has the

DESIGNERS: Carla Taylor Sam Dickinson

potential to be a real game-change on the UK's roads, altering the face of motor-

CONTRIBUTORS: Jeff Senior Amy Marsden

ty, social inclusion, emissions and congestion.”

PRODUCTION: Vicki Lindsay Lisa Pollinger

UK locations.

ADMINISTRAT0R: Lisa Barrans 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.

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ing in the most fundamental of ways and delivering major benefits for road safeThe government is providing £19m to launch four driverless car schemes in four But does the service and repair industry have the resources to tackle these vehicles. IMI chief executive Steve Nash thinks not. “We believe the government is yet to fully realise the pressures we are under.”

We’re still playing catch up though. The USA was the first country to introduce legislation to permit testing automated vehicles with Google being the most high-profile developer to run self-drive tests so far.

And do we want these driverless cars anyway? Would you feel comfortable getting into a car driven by a computer? Research undertaken by Virgin last year found that 43% of the British public would not want to travel in driverless cars, while a quarter of those surveyed said that they would not get inside such a car.

DANIEL STEPHENS GROUP EDITOR

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CONTENTS

INSIDE SECTIONS NEWS

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET

8

BUS AND COACH REVIEW

40

TANKERS

54

NATIONAL FLEET REVIEW

58

PUBLIC SECTOR

64

HAULAGE

68

WASTE AND RECYCLING

70

AGRICULTURE

76

LOOKING BACK...

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FEATURES News The latest top stories

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Melksham Motor Spares The one stop shop

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General Traffic The name to trust in car parts

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Fix Auto A quick fix

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Garage Equipment Association Driving standards for 70 years

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Guild of British Coach Operators High quality service

40

Western Greyhound Innovation and quality

42

Attain Travel Family run excellence

44

Dews Coaches Family business continues to strive

48

Coach Travel Services Top of the class

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GCA Domestic More than just transport

54

RH Logistics High spec fleet, high spec performance

58

Atchison Topeka Warehouse and transport excellence

62

North Lanarkshire Council Eco stars set the standard

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Cobley Transport A growing business with a personal touch

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EIS Waste Services Complete waste disposal service

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Powerday Innovative recycling solutions

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AIC Trade Assurance Agricultural industries association

76

Looking Back...

The Forth Bridge

80

Follow us on

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GARAGE EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATION

54

GCA DOMESTIC @TandLMagazine 2

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CONTENTS

62

ATCHISON TOPEKA

58

RH LOGISTICS

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GENERAL TRAFFIC

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GUILD OF BRITISH COACH OPERATORS

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NEWS

INDEPENDENT FREIGHT CELEBRATES TEN YEARS OF INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS EXCELLENCE Freight and logistics specialists Independent Freight is celebrating the completion of its first ten years in business with a new HQ and warehousing facility in Nuneaton and a significant increase in its team of logistics and international import/export and shipping professionals.

Founded in 2004 by entrepreneur and international logistics expert Jenny Hooper, Independent Freight specialises in providing national and international freight and transport services, with customised freight forwarding for both import and export.

The company was initially set up and managed from a spare room in Jenny Hooper’s

home in Nuneaton. Jenny’s vision was to use her expertise gained in over 20 years of experience in international trade to provide a value added service for customers.

Independent Freight aims to go beyond the movement of goods from one location to another, adding a level of professional and personal customer care that achieves a successful outcome for every shipment by ensuring that all the complexities involved in shipping goods are taken care of.

The formula proved to be highly successful and within 18 months Independent Freight moved to offices in Hinckley and began recruiting staff to help grow the business. David Hooper joined the business in

CAPE SHIPPING TO DEPLOY INFINITY Athens based operator Cape Shipping has agreed a deal to implement the Infinity platform from Navarino to manage IT and communications on board three ships in its fleet, as well as opting for Infinity Cube for an upcoming newbuild.

Since 1987 the company has managed a variety of ships of various sizes, including Freedom and Handy Sizes, Panamax, Cape Size and VLCC. Currently, three 81,600 mt

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Kamsarmax vessels form the core of the managed fleet, and Cape has decided to use the Infinity platform on these ships.

Navarino says that the company will also use the latest version of Infinity, Infinity Cube, for its upcoming newbuild vessel.

Cube includes similar functionality to the existing Infinity platform but additionally features two nodes, to provide improved availability and redundancy.

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2010 having come from a background in regional development agency Advantage West Midlands, bringing a wealth of expertise in economic development and Government business support.

The company has continued to grow and build its operations with a national and international customer base.

Turnover has doubled year on year and the company now has a six-figure annual turnover with eight permanent employees, plus additional part time and contracted staff.

In 2014 Independent Freight moved its head office to Nuneaton in Warwickshire, basing its operations in an industrial unit with warehousing attached.

ETIHAD AIRWAYS CARRIED RECORD NUMBER OF PASSENGERS Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, carried a record number of passengers and cargo in 2014, marking its strongest operational performance to date.

The airline sponsors Manchester City's stadium, shirt and a campus on the club’s new state-of-the-art training ground.

Almost 14.8million passengers flew with Etihad

Airways last year, an increase of 23 per cent over 2013 levels. The growth in passenger demand continued to outstrip the airline’s capacity increase, highlighting the strength of its long-term growth strategy.

In total, Etihad Airways carried more than 74 per cent of the 19.9 million passengers who travelled through Abu Dhabi International Airport in 2014.

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NEWS

SHEFFIELD HAULAGE COMPANY CELEBRATES RISE IN SALES Sheffield-based haulage company DBL Logistics is celebrating the first anniversary of its move to a new warehouse facility with a 32 per cent increase in sales.

The company has seen substantial growth since its move to its new £2million Huntsman Depot on Tinsley Park Road.

Staff numbers have increased from 25 to 33, including three additional warehouse staff, two drivers and three office staff members, with plans to hire up to an additional four employees by the middle of the year.

David Clarkson, who became managing director of DBL Logistics in 1998, taking over from his father Bert who founded the business 30 years ago as Yorkshire Distribution Services, said: “I am delighted to see DBL Logistics go from strength to strength.

“The move to a new facility has

played a massive part in our success over the last 12 months as it has enabled us to grow the business further. As a result, we have enjoyed one of our best years to date.”

DBL Logistics is a founding member of the United Pallet Network (UPN), which has more than 65 depots throughout the UK and delivers into 26 countries across Europe.

Dave added: “It’s an exciting time for DBL Logistics and the future looks extremely bright.

“The company has changed a lot during the last 30 years and has adapted successfully to ensure we continue to provide a modern, professional and family-friendly service to all our customers.

“The commitment of our staff and dedication to the company will ensure that we will continue to grow for the foreseeable future.”

LAND ACQUISITION FOR DENBY TRANSPORT Lincoln haulage company Denby Transport is poised to expand after acquiring a 1.25-acre site adjacent to its headquarters.

The £7m-turnover group, which employs 70 staff, bought the land on Whisby Road to expand its operations and storage facilities.

Managing director Peter Denby said: "We decided to grasp the opportunity to buy this piece of land for several reasons.

"Up until ten years ago we would have described ourselves as a haulier and warehouse business, but times are changing, and we are now doing an increasing amount of work within the UK, as well as our international runs.

"These days we also remove, transport and install equipment for our customers and we act as a partner to companies by offering a logistics service – which includes the stor-

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age, re-loading and delivery of goods, as required.

"This growing trend of helping customers to manage their supply chain means we are likely to need to create bigger storage facilities in the future."

The sale was completed by chartered surveyor Banks Long & Co. Director William Wall added: "It remains extremely rare for parcels of employment land to become available for sale in Lincoln. Our clients no longer required either this triangle of land or the strategically important seven acres to the south, so we were able to structure simultaneous off-market sales that ensured the necessary swift capital receipt.

"We are pleased that the transaction will help facilitate the growth of such a long established and highly regarded local business."

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Fueling change in the market Network strength has always been a key driver behind Keyfuels’ success. Continued expansion, growth and investment has seen its network grow beyond 1800 sites nationwide, with the company’s multi-branded network approach central to delivering an unrivalled service.

In the face of a new and evolving market, the Keyfuels offering has widened to include added benefits to its service, and many customers are now taking full advantage.

Keyfuels’ E-Fuels service, for instance, allows managers access to account information 24 hours a day, including transaction management and site network enquiries.

Clients can also use the Keyfuels systems to view and drill down into fleet fuel use on a live basis, allowing bosses to assess discrepancies, as well as to instantly cancel lost or stolen cards reported by drivers. These factors taken with the size of the network presents a compelling proposition.

The release of the 2015 Net Promoter Score reiterates the strength of Keyfuels’ excellent customer service, with the brand ranking alongside some major international organisations for its levels of customer service.

Helping its customers save time and money is all part of the service, but Keyfuels is proving how valuable the service is in other ways, too. A growing trend in the last 12 months has been the move away from own yard tanks to purchasing through one easy and reliable channel.

J Hayward & Sons of Walsall Ltd is one recent example its move away from own yard tanks, resulting in notable cost and convenience benefits, as well as improving safety.

Dated on-site fuel tanks can often be a drain on resources, with maintenance and additional costs adding to expenditure. Removing fuel tanks can free up space in the yard, too, resulting in a greater capacity for vehicles and also a reduction in driver waiting times.

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LEGAL LOGISTICS

NON-GUARANTEED OVERTIME?

TO INCLUDE, OR NOT TO INCLUDE; THAT IS THE QUESTION

A hot topic at the moment, particularly in the transport sector, is holiday pay and how to work out the calculations.

Backhouse Jones, the leading UK transport law firm discuss a question frequently raised by clients: Q: Do I need to include non-guaranteed overtime when calculating holiday pay?

In short, yes. In Bear Scotland Ltd and others v Fulton and others; Hertel (UK) Ltd v Woods and others; Amec Group Ltd v Law and others [2015] IRLR 15 EAT, the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) held that regular non-guaranteed overtime should be included in holiday pay calculations.

Backhouse Jones can confirm that this case will now not be appealed.

The EAT concluded that the non-guaranteed overtime payments in question in these appeals were intrinsically linked to the performance of the tasks required under the workers’ contracts of employment and therefore must be taken into account when calculating holiday pay.

Employees are entitled to “normal remuneration” when taking leave, so both guaranteed and non-guaranteed overtime should be taken into account in calculations for the four weeks of holiday pay that employees are entitled to. Note that the decision does not apply to the additional 1.6 weeks of statutory leave that employees are entitled to in the UK.

a three month period in which to bring an unlawful deduction from wages claim, any gap in a series of deductions of longer than three months would extinguish the claims for deductions concerning holiday pay that was paid beyond that three month period. Effectively, in practice this is likely to mean employees can only claim for leave during the past year in the Employment Tribunal. Unite the Union who acted for the employees in this case have confirmed they will not appealing this element of the decision. Further, a government taskforce has confirmed that the liability in respect of any claims lodged after July 2015 is limited to 2 years.

Q: What do you do now?

Given the case has not been appealed, it is now currently the case that nonguaranteed overtime should be included in the calculation of holiday pay as well as other payments which are intrinsically and directly linked to work, in order to stave off any future claims.

Q: What about backdated payments?

This is the important part for employers. Previous concerns that claims under the Working Time Directive could be potentially backdated to 1998 when the UK adopted the directive, have been dispelled.

The EAT has held that as the law provides for

For all related queries, please contact Rafia Ahmad on 08450 575 111 or email rafia.ahmad@backhouses.co.uk

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: MELKSHAM MOTOR SPARES

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: MELKSHAM MOTOR SPARES

THE ONE STOP SHOP

Melksham Motor Spares has proven itself a one-stop-shop for all your automotive supplies and works tirelessly to provide such products efficiently tocking an extensive range of OE Quality Components from industry-leading suppliers of parts to the automotive industry, Melksham Motor Spares is a company dedicated to providing only the highest quality, manufactured parts. With in excess of 20,000 part numbers in stock and new product lines being continuously added to its product portfolio, Melksham Motor Spares has proven itself a one-stop-shop for all your automotive supplies and works tirelessly to provide such products efficiently: “Our aim is to exceed your service requirements for range, availability and price and we are dedicated to supplying you the right part in the quickest time possible,” explains the company.

As the leading independent distributor of quality automotive parts and accessories

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within Wiltshire, Somerset and the surrounding areas, the company has become an integral part of the local community and the automotive sector, supplying an assortment of part numbers which is second to none.

Many of the parts offered by Melksham Motor Spares come from some of the leading brands so as to ensure only the highest standards where standards truly matter most. The company adds: “Our commitment to customers is paramount and we offer a first class delivery service, comprising of a large fleet of modern vans, backed up by superb technical support, range and availability from the largest stock-holding in the area.”

Established in 1968, Melksham Motor Spares was founded as, and remains an independent family run organisation with firm, traditional founding values. This firm family focus has enabled the company to develop a

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: MELKSHAM MOTOR SPARES keen reputation for its friendly, helpful and altogether supportive conduct, both within the business and in the handling of customer care. The company boasts incredible standards and this is backed up by the dedication of the Melksham Motor Spares team in recognising the needs of the customer and tailoring the service provided to these needs. Further supported by the company's family ethos and foundations, dealing Melksham Motor Spares is an enjoyable experience with people whom you know have your best interests at heart.

The company explains its aims further: “Our aim, above all, is to exceed your service requirements for range, availability and price and we are dedicated to supplying you the right part in the quickest time possible. We recognise our customers need confidence in the parts they are fitting.We supply OE quality components at competitive prices, stocking an extensive range of trusted and recognised brands from the leading suppliers in the industry.We boast the largest stockholding in the region, managed in extensive detail by our state of the art computerised cataloguing systems, allowing us to react to changes in the market with new part numbers coming into stock almost daily. This, combined with our large fleet of modern delivery vehicles and a highly trained, experienced technical sales team, ready to meet our customers demands, means you are assured of the best all round service. Our trade counter and well stocked shop for retail customers completes our commitment to bring you the best.�

OUR AIM, ABOVE ALL, IS TO EXCEED YOUR SERVICE REQUIREMENTS FOR RANGE, AVAILABILITY AND PRICE Situated in the south west of England and with branches in Melksham and Frome, Melksham Motor Spares is perfectly positioned to provide local customers a service standard second to none. Whilst it is quite unlikely that the average customer will struggle to find what they're looking for from Melksham Motor Spares, the company also offers a spares request service by which potential customers can submit a form to the organisation with details of any needs they have for new parts or enquiries regarding parts already stocked by the company. This enables Melksham Motor Spares to offer a service unrestricted by merely what is already in stock and provides the ability for the company to adapt to consumer trends and needs as they arise.

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: MELKSHAM MOTOR SPARES

“ANYONE CAN SELL CAR PARTS, BUT WE BELIEVE IN OFFERING SOMETHING DIFFERENT” Detailing the company's dedication to such high standards of both care and quality, it explains: “Anyone can sell car parts, but we believe in offering something different; going that extra mile to be the best.We are a family firm with traditional values and we want to make our customers feel valued; engaging with them and listening to their needs to build lasting business relationships. We are committed to offering a reliable, informative service that you can trust. We back this up by supplying quality parts at competitive prices, delivered promptly from the area's largest stockholding. 45 years experience and excellence in the automotive industry has earned us an enviable reputation we are proud of and never take for granted.

“We are constantly reviewing and investing in every aspect of our business to ensure we continue to bring you the best service and remain 'The Region's Premier Motor Factor'.”

At the 2014 awards for The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation, Melksham Motor Awards was announced one of the runners up for the prestigious 2014 Distributor of Excellence award, serving as testament to the company's dedication to quality standards. “To receive recognition on a national level for the efforts of our hard working, committed staff, out of over 3,000 Motor Factors of all sizes throughout the UK is a huge honour. Our customers are of paramount importance to us and we will continue to strive to be the best in 2015 and look forward to you all being a part of our success,” commented the company.

The company has also become one of the first local businesses within the Bowerhill area to install a potentially lifesaving AED (Automated, External Defibrillator) on-premise, showing just how much the company cares about the safety and well-being of its operatives. Though all members of staff had already been rigorously trained for first aid, operatives have now undergone extensive training for the use of a defibrillator – an experience not everyone can say their employer provided.

Alison Cook, Financial Director of Melksham Motor Spares explained further the decision behind the investment into the AED: “Following my First Aid at Work training, you are taught how important first response is in treating any

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: MELKSHAM MOTOR SPARES

“IT IS IMPORTANT THAT PEOPLE IN OUR LOCALITY KNOW WE HAVE THIS POTENTIALLY LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT” casualty. The welfare of our staff is of paramount concern to our business and should the worst case scenario happen, where a member of staff, customer or general public experience a cardiac arrest, having the AED on the premises could be the difference between life and death. You can’t put a price on that.”

Across the UK, 2000 individuals die each week from a sudden cardiac arrest and for every minute a defibrillator shock is delayed the chance of survival is reduced by 10%. Naturally, the company decided that investment into an easily accessible AED was an investment worth making both for the business, and for it staff who can rest easy and have immediate defibrillator support should the worst happen.

Phil Dodd, Managing Director of Melksham Motor Spares also commented: “It is important that people in our locality know we have this potentially lifesaving equipment; it is an investment not only for the welfare of our staff and customers, but to anyone in our immediate community.”

In recent times, the company also took part in a major “workout” with the DENSO Aftermarket Sales UK team in which the DENSO team, made up on DENSO's Technical Training Manager, Alan Povey and Assistant Manager, Kevin Peacocke attended Melksham Motor Spares across a two day period to update one another on the latest technology in the field of cleaner

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: MELKSHAM MOTOR SPARES

engine burn, technical problem solving, advancements in DENSO's engine management programme, expansion of rotating electrics ranges, climate control and engine cooling.

Phil gave some insight as to his thoughts on the workout: “The workout session with DENSO was a great opportunity for us to update our knowledge bank and get ahead of our competitors in terms of future technologies and product offering. The entire team was really pleased to see Rose, and Alan was a fountain of knowledge and was able to answer all our technical questions with ease. I would highly recommend a DENSO workout to any other factor.

“The products continually meet the demands of our customers, from price to value and reliability, which is why the demand just keeps on growing.

DENSO spark plugs have opened a lot of profit potential for us over the years as it has enabled us to offer OE branded parts at competitive prices to our customer. Doubling our stock intake was an easy decision to make as it means we have greater opportunity to meet the needs of our customers in terms of quality and price.”

Looking to the future, we expect the company to continue adding more and more renown brands to its shelves, thus expanding upon its product offering more and more with each coming year. Although the company already has what is unquestionably the best offering of motor spare parts within the locality, Melksham Motor Spares has shown great dedication to pushing the boundaries of what it is able to offer to consumers. The company isn't one to stand still, and that is unlikely to change in the coming times. www.melkshammotorspares.co.uk Tel: 01225 790123

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GENERAL TRAFFIC

roviding a consistent standard for high quality service, General Traffic is one of the largest stockists of car parts in the North West and the Potteries, boasting an incredible range of spares, from alternators to wiper blades and much more – General Traffic is a one-stop shop for all your automotive needs.

Though established in a humble highstreet shop in 1983 in Farnworth, the story behind the foundation of General Traffic is one of great interest. Founders, Adam Umarji and Imtiaz Umarji originated from the tropical islands of the Seychelles until the 1977 coup d'etat in which the government was overthrown and replaced with a new dictatorship.As a result of the new dic-

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tatorship in the Seychelles, a number of residents on the islands were imprisoned and later exiled – Adam being one of such individuals. After moving over to the UK with Imtiaz as a refugee, Adam maintained contact with his family and friends in Seychelles and due to the size of the island there was great reliance upon the import of goods from overseas which led to Adam receiving regular requests for sending over goods. Over time, Adam and Imtiaz noticed significant demand for the provision of car parts which were often difficult to obtain on the islands, thus leading to the brothers taking a big step and investing into motor factor business, General Traffic which has since grown into a key link in the UK automotive supply chain.

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As a family run business, the company has been fostered under the keen values of commitment and loyalty to customers and suppliers which truly sets the company apart from direct competitors. In addition, the company enjoys very quick decision making processes and can adapt to changes in the needs of its customers and the wider market at a moment's notice.

Adam Umarji, Managing Director of General Traffic explained how General Traffic originally operated and expanded: “At the time it was difficult.We didn't have any any contracts with major manufacturers.We started to run the business through buying off national motor factors, so the likes of Unipart (formerly Partco) and delivering to the same garages that they

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GENERAL TRAFFIC

THE NAME TO TRUST IN PARTS General Traffic is one of the largest stockists of car parts in the North West and the Potteries

(IMAGE: GENERAL TRAFFIC - WARRINGTON)

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GENERAL TRAFFIC did, but we were able to win the business because of our superior standard of service. The philosophy has always been that we never say no to any request – a customer would come in for a part and we'd always say, 'Yes we can get that for you' and source it right away, whether we had it in stock or not. We would then worry about how we were going to get hold of the product and deliver it to our customer quickly and efficiently.”

Through taking on customer needs head-first and even going to the extent of sourcing automotive parts from direct competitors when necessary, General Traffic successfully fostered a reputation for both quality and reliability – a company capable of sourcing anything the customer desires. Though it goes without saying that every company attempts to successfully meet the needs of its customers, General Traffic is one of the few capable of proving that its dedication to doing so holds no boundaries, and this has truly paid off for the company.

Imtiaz detailed how the company then began to take off and establish itself in the UK market: “It took us a good ten years in the market to build up our critical mass and develop strong relationships with the customers. We then opened up a second branch in 1993, just down the road in a large mill which was up for sale. We never thought we'd fill it because it was much bigger than we needed but we thought we'd just go for it and take more stock on board... In 1983 we turned over approxi-

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ADNAN UMARJI

GENERAL TRAFFIC HAS SINCE BEEN ABLE TO SET UP A NUMBER OF NEW LOCATIONS WITHIN THE UK mately £120,000 in the first year and ten years later, in 1993 we tripled the staff and our turnover was £849,000 per annum, so just under a million.”

Through support from the Independent Motor Trade Factors Associated Ltd (IFA) buying group between 1996 and 2006, General Traffic was then able to take advantage of its reputation for service standards and reliability and combine that with competitive pricing and greater flexibility. Being part of the IFA provided General Traffic with the negotiating power and supplier

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networking potential required for it to compete with many of the major players in the automotive parts market, allowing the company to grow from approximately £1.7m annual turnover with 35 staff to a total of £9.4m and 148 staff by 2006.

In 2006, General Traffic made the courageous move to depart from the IFA to form The Regional Automotive Parts Independent Distributors (RAPID) buying group.The RAPID buying group, which consists of a collection of like-minded multibranch motor factors may consist only of 10 members, however due to the considerable size and close-relations between the family run businesses RAPID are able to respond quickly to changes in the market and provide increasingly more beneficial solutions for each member company. The foundation of RAPID has allowed General Traffic to continue to benefit from combined purchasing power and a vast supplier network, however in a much more specific and flexible manner than with the IFA. Building from the reliable RAPID network, General Traffic has since been able to set up a number of new locations within the UK and expand its operations considerably to a network of over 300 staff from 18 sites, with over 150 vehicles on the road and an annual turnover which exceeds £21m and has been rising each and every year. This vast expansion of the company has not only enabled it to increasingly compete on a large scale, but also to develop its organisational structures and management procedures. One such location acquired by General Traffic was that of Potteries Motor Factors in 2008, where-

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GENERAL TRAFFIC

upon Adam and Imtiaz made the landmark decision to begin the process of “Passing the torch” through giving increased responsibility and role to Directors, Adnan Umarji and Adil Umarji who possessed the energy and drive.

In 2011 General Traffic then opened its ground-breaking, 40,000 square foot Central Distribution Hub in Warrington on which Adnan commented: “The distribution hub has allowed us to stock our products a lot better. We're able to keep the popular items close to the customer at each branch, ready for immediate dispatch, and the grey tail end is stocked at our central warehouse. Each branch is serviced several times a day from our central hub and so our customers have access to a wide range of parts across our entire network without even realising. We can move stock from one end of our network to the other in as little as 2 hrs.”

Part of General Traffic's high standard of service delivery lies in the organisation's ability to deliver automotive parts quickly, efficiently and to the time-scale requirements of its customers. In ensuring this, General Traffic maintains a varied, up-todate and efficient fleet network which is moulded and adapted to the geographic areas of coverage for branches. Through maintaining this varied and adaptable fleet, General Traffic is able to overcome

AT PRESENT WE HAVE AT LEAST 150 DELIVERY VEHICLES ACROSS OUR 18 SITES the challenges which many organisations involved in transportation face, allowing the company to truly stand out as one capable of meeting customer needs regardless of time, geographic challenges or any other hurdle.

Adil explained the way in which the company's fleet is organised in more detail: “At present we have at least 150 delivery vehicles across our 18 sites in the North West and Potteries. As well as having vans on the road we also have some mopeds so that during rush hour and peak traffic times we can deliver small packages to local garages. If all they need is something like a little bit of engine oil then we can get that out to the garage very quickly and it beats our competitors who are just using vans all day long to deliver. In certain areas where there's a lot of congestion we can use the mopeds to service people very quickly.”

In addition to maintaining the company's fleet, General Traffic also recognises the importance of the drivers and members of staff liaising with the customers. Perceiving each and every member of staff as repre-

sentatives for the public image of the company, General Traffic ensures that each individual is trained for customer service standards as well as in their respective work archetypes so as best to maintain a friendly and professional service across the board.

While the business has expanded considerably, it is key to note that unlike many of its direct competitors, General Traffic still maintains the key family focus laid out since foundation. One could argue that while the scale of the organisation has changed dramatically, the business itself, the culture and the keen benchmarks for customer service have not. Even though the company now does maintain very strong ties and working relations with major industry suppliers, General Traffic still operates on a very personal basis and is able to make key decisions on the fly.This is a result of the lean nature of the business and fluid business structure.

Adnan explains the company's family focus further and the associated benefits of this: “You can tell we're a family business

ASIF HASSAN, ADNAN UMARJI, CHRIS HODGEN, ADIL UMARJI

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GENERAL TRAFFIC ADIL UMARJI

through the close relationships that we keep with our customers, staff and suppliers. Customers can come through and speak to us at any time as there aren't that many layers of hierarchy with people sitting in board rooms and making decisions with notepads and figures. We like to keep ourselves very close to the ground. We operate an open door policy for every member of staff from driver to warehouse operator and right through to the senior management – if anybody wants to speak to us then the door is wide open, whether that's for work related topics or personal issues. That's what is different with ourselves compared to our direct competitors who now have a different outlook in their business plan.

“When times are tough, things can get rocky in a business. There are moments where things can get heated and people may have different ideas and plans for the future but, being family members we have a very strong bond that no matter what happens in business, we all stick together.

It's a different balancing act, whereas if you go into a corporate environment then its easy to get demotivated and if things don't go your way then it's easy to fall out with somebody else and say 'Right, forget that I’m moving on’. I hope that people can see that by being a family business, we've got

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ASIF HASSAN

BEING FAMILY MEMBERS WE HAVE A VERY STRONG BOND THAT NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS IN BUSINESS, WE ALL STICK TOGETHER. over 30 years of history and the next generation coming through with a nice roadmap for the future.

“Whilst the older generation is slowly phasing out of the business, the seeds of the next generation have been firmly planted at the core of General Traffic. The day to day running of the business and leadership has transitioned from one generation to the next, but the philosophy and strategy has always remained the same.

Having grown up in the surroundings of the family run business, both myself and Adil share similar values to our fathers. Our primary focus is to offer competitively priced products with an exceptional level of service to all of our customers but we also understand how important it is to maintain close relationships with them as well as our staff and key suppliers. We are keen to follow in the footsteps of our fathers and are eager to drive the business forward to even greater heights.”

To celebrate the company's 30th

anniversary in 2013, General Traffic joined forces with Bolton-based racing driver Chris Hodgen in sponsoring his quest to win the North West Formula Ford Championship, a quest which proved successful for Chris with his winning of the championship – the perfect end to General Traffic's celebrations. Given the success of this, General Traffic also decided to continue this into 2014/15 and the company has received great feedback from customers who have been keeping up with the racer's progress.

If you're looking for competitively priced car parts with a service standard and reliability second to none, General Traffic is the place to go – no challenge is too much and the dedication of the company to delivering this service standard is second to none.

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: FIX AUTO

QUICK FIX Growth and development over recent times has been nothing short of remarkable for international body shop network ix Auto's job is to remove the hassles associated with an accident. Through its simplified claims process with a customer’s insurer, Fix Auto’s quality commitment and the company guarantee all combine to ensure peace of mind.

The company offers a full range of services in collision and auto repair. When an accident occurs, Fix Auto experts quickly set in motion a complete autobody repair service that only ends when it delivers a flawless vehicle back to the customer. After cost estimates have been provided and approved by the insurance company, the company handles everything from dent removal to re-spraying. But its car body shops are also qualified to take care of any kind of crash repair approved by the insurer, including wheel alignment, windshield replacement, bumper repairs and air conditioning systems. Fix Auto even deals with rust and paint chip problems.

For example, Fix Auto service points are equipped to carry out a full range of repairs, ranging from paintless dent removal to restoration work resulting from a major impact. Its collision repair centres use the

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most advanced high-tech equipment. This ensures that any maintenance and repairs it does on recent models will comply with the directives and latest technologies used by auto manufacturers.

The company employs computerised processes in all body repairs to provide the quality control that the customer would expect. Its teams handle auto body restoration for individuals, fleets and management companies and its range of services extends from passenger vehicles (including luxury and foreign cars) to truck body repairs (light commercial vehicles of 3.5 tonnes maximum).

Fix Auto also handles dent repairs, paint scratch repairs and tire installation. There’s also wheel alignment, wheel rim repair and air conditioning fixes. Its bodyshops are also fully equipped to meet all manufacturers’ standards and quality controls in providing the customer with a reliable car diagnosis. This assures customers of complete peace of mind whether the problem is related to body repairs or something mechanical. Glass replacement, valet service and towing are also available.

The enduring quality of Fix Auto UK’s service was

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: FIX AUTO highlighted recently when its managing director Ian Pugh celebrated being named ABP Club’s prestigious Industry Knight for 2014.

The award, presented in front of over 400 industry executives at the Hinckley Island Hotel, was given in recognition for Ian’s achievements during his lifetime in the industry, in particular the contribution he has made since taking the helm at Fix Auto UK in February 2011. In announcing the award, ABP Club made specific mention to the company’s continual rise within the vehicle insurance and repair sectors, after securing contracts with Allianz, Aviva, Covéa and the Co-operative Insurance.

It could not have been made at a more significant time in Fix Auto UK’s history as 2015 will mark its 10th anniversary.

Mark Bull, Director of ABP Club, said: “When deciding who should be presented the prestigious ABP Club Industry Knight Award for 2014, we once again looked for a person who has been dedicated to their profession and somebody that is passionate about their business and the UK body repair industry as a whole.

"It is quite apparent Ian has moulded Fix Auto UK into a cohesive network of repairers

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OUR CONTINUED SUCCESS ISN’T DOWN TO ONE PERSON. I GENUINELY BELIEVE THAT THE STRENGTH OF A TEAM IS THE INDIVIDUALS WITHIN who are able to meet their clients' requirements regarding the quality of repair and levels of service. Since Ian's appointment as Managing Director, his innovative and progressive approach has greatly assisted the development of the network and its supporting infrastructure, which has attracted an impressive portfolio of clients, for which he is to be commended."

Upon receiving his award, a rather stunned Ian, said: “This is truly an honour for me and one I certainly wasn’t expecting. Being recognised in this way by my colleagues and industry peers is rather humbling. I am overwhelmed.”

He added: “While I am honoured to receive the award, I cannot take all the credit. While the Fix Auto UK network has never been stronger and our growth and development over recent times has been nothing short of remarkable, our continued success isn’t down to one person. I genuinely believe that the strength of a team is

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the individuals within and the strength of the individual is the team. I am privileged to work alongside such a high calibre of people both in the head office team, and also within the franchise network. This award is dedicated to all those people.”

Ian becomes only the eighth person in the UK Body Repair Industry to be named as an ABP Club Industry Knight, and joins Fix Auto franchisees Chris Oliver (Fix Auto Dagenham) and Carl Flint (Fix Auto Nottingham) to make it a hat-trick of Fix Auto names on the roll of honour. www.fixauto.com Tel: 01455 23 43 54

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GARAGE EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATION

DRIVING STANDARDS FOR 70 YEARS Since 1945 the Garage Equipment Association has promoted the interests of the industry & overseen key developments in operational efficiency

he Garage Equipment Association (GEA) was established in 1945 to uphold the standards of equipment sold, and the services provided by, its diverse membership. Since then it has made great progress, enhancing the ability of its members to go to market, improving standards across all aspects of the industry, and promoting the interests, services and capabilities of its members nationwide. It has become an intrinsic part of its members’ success, each drawing from its extensive training, advice and mentorship.

Crucially, through its representation of the industry, GEA has overseen significant development in quality and standards while helping to tackle crucial objectives in the progression of environmental awareness, value and efficiency, carbon reduction, and health and safety.

Members agree to accept GEA’s Code in its entirety and to ensure that their direct employees, and any subcontractors employed by them, are aware of their responsibilities both under the Code, and any legal requirements. The Code is not intended to qualify or supplement the law in any way. GEA encourages the reproduction of this Code of Good Practice to member companies for distribution to their staff and to customers; it is also available on the GEA website.

The organisation endeavours to promote good fellowship and friendly but active competition between member companies, to the ultimate benefit of the end user/customer.

GEA’s mission statement notes its aim as being a “single focal point for our members, representing their interests within the Automotive Industry, and in liaison with other professional bodies and Government

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GARAGE EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATION organisations. By doing this we endeavour to maintain the standards of the Garage Equipment Industry, ensuring that our member’s products and services are in accordance with National and European standards. We continue to strive for the highest professional standards and will support and motivate our members to provide the best quality of product, customer service and aftercare.”

To this end, GEA made a significant change in its management hierarchy in 2014.

Neil Ebbs, of MAHA UK, was appointed President of the association, in April.

Neil’s experience in running the UK division of MAHA is extremely beneficial and is already helping the association move forward with its drive to improve safety and standards in the garage equipment industry.

MAHA is an abbreviation for: MAschinenbau HAldenwan, which roughly translates as Manufactured in Haldenwan. Haldenwan is a small Bavarian town, however, today MAHA are one of the largest European equipment manufacturers. Neil takes over from Andrew Bates of Straightset, who has served as President for the past two years.

In Neil’s first public address he spoke of the GEA’s strong reputation and its success in the promotion of quality across the industry. “The GEA has become recognised as our industry’s body, for example, it has been raising standards within our industry by assessing and accrediting Vehicle Lift and MOT Equipment installation and service engineers.

The accreditation scheme has helped us to drive-up the standards within our industry and provides our customers with greater

peace of mind. During my term as President I will focus on improving not only the standards of our engineers, but those across the whole member-company, including management,” he said.

The provision of garage equipment requires an understanding of the equipment and knowledge of its applications by the supplier’s sales staff; the installation, inspection, calibration and maintenance of such equipment requires a full understanding of, and expertise in, a variety of good engineering practices as well as comprehensive knowledge of the equipment itself.

For the user to obtain maximum benefit from the capital outlay it is essential that the equipment required is correctly specified, installed and is subsequently maintained by specialists.

Members of the Garage Equipment Association provide this expertise and are specialists in providing a variety of services to the customer. For example, assistance in the selection of equipment, advice on VOSA M.O.T. testing requirements and relevant legal standards, workshop planning, installation, safety

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GARAGE EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATION

THE GEA HAS PRODUCED AN EASY-TO-USE HEALTH CHECK GUIDE THAT DETAILS AREAS THAT MUST BE CHECKED BY ENGINEERS TO ENSURE VEHICLES ARE EFFECTIVELY UTILISING THEIR CARBON REDUCTION TECHNOLOGIES inspection, calibration and maintenance. All members are obliged, as a condition of membership, to observe this Code, which lays down the minimum standards acceptable to the association.

However, many member companies have their own specifications, which may be higher than those laid down in the Code. As it is the aim of the GEA’s Code to promote high standards, the association encourages members to exceed the minimum standards wherever possible and adopt best industry practice.

A growing aim amongst membership is a determination to reduce overall carbon footprint.The emergence of greener technology and a general awareness towards fuel efficiency and environmental issues has meant customers are far more conscious of their contribution. Over the last few years, customers will have paid

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extra for vehicles with low Co2 emissions, vehicles that incorporate an EGR system, variable cam timing, particle filters and “state of the art” engine management systems. For the GEA membership the important thing to note is that many may not be maintaining them correctly.

The organisation believes many garages may be missing an opportunity here, a chance to offer a “Carbon Footprint Health Check”, along the lines of a service that will inspect the customer’s car to see if it’s as efficient now as it was the day it left the production line.

So what should be included in such a health check? Well one of the biggest reducers of vehicle efficiency is low tyre pressure, which is easily measured and put right at the start of the check. Another quick test is an emissions test at the tail pipe, which can flag-up most problems and is often forgotten until the first MOT.

Furthermore, how many cars are running around with the engine management malfunction indicator light on? A quick scan of the OBD system will put the customer’s mind at rest.

Incorrect wheel alignment also drastically reduces the car’s efficiency. Many drivers may have clipped a kerb this winter and be unaware of just how much the extra drag caused by incorrect tracking is increasing their car’s carbon footprint. Another fault that often goes undetected, due to how progressively it develops, is poor injector flow rates, so a flow rate test should be conducted and if the results are poor, a clean should also be suggested.

The GEA has produced an easy-to-use health check guide that details areas that must be checked by engineers to ensure vehicles are effectively utilising their carbon reduction technologies.

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GARAGE EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATION

It is these activities that have helped members like Alentec Orion Ltd in Leicester and Auto Workshop Equipment Services (AWE) in Somerset develop their capabilities in order to offer customers a better service overall. Indeed, at AWE, the company has offered a great new year offer to customers, offering a comprehensive range of MOT Bay Packages including Class 4 & 7 Standard, OPTL and ATL MOT Bay Packages.

The diversity of the GEA membership makes it even more important that the association maintains a robust quality control system. For example, Calibration and Repair Services Ltd in Preston offers a comprehensive range of services that includes air conditioning maintenance, brake testing, emission control for both diesel and petrol vehicles, exhaust gas analysis, smoke meters and vehicle lifts as well as many more options for customers. Similarly, Commercial Garage Equipment in Worcestershire through its authorised testing facilities enjoys an enviable reputation for high standards across a great range of capabilities thanks to its automated testing lines, MOT bays and prefabricated pits.

Another key area of development for the GEA has surrounded health and safety. Recent incidents regarding vehicles falling from 2-post lifts has encouraged the GEA to emphasise further the need for the safe operation of vehicle lifting equipment.

The association has become aware of an increasing number of incidents in regards to 2-post lifts. Some have resulted in vehicle damage, but others have

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involved serious injury and even death. Investigation of the circumstances has shown a number of different causes. Therefore to help prevent future incidents it’s imperative that GEA members, lift owners and operators observe the following a number of key guidelines.

Firstly, lift operators must be properly trained and be made aware of all risks. Over recent years motor vehicles have grown larger, particularly 4-wheel drive variants and correct positioning of the vehicle on the lift is essential. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines and if lifting on the vehicle body or chassis (wheel free) always use the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended lifting points. Where a limited number of models are lifted, it may assist operators if

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GARAGE EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATION positioning marks (for example, for parking the vehicle) are made on the floor. Lifting pads must be positioned carefully and adjusted for height if necessary. Simply kicking them into place and hoping for the best is reckless.

Secondly, it is important that the load is evenly distributed across all of the lifting points. Normally this will be achieved by using the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended lifting points and this should be sufficient for general servicing work and inspection. However, the centre of gravity can alter significantly if heavy components (gear box, engine etc) are removed. Such work should preferably be carried out using a 4-post lift, but if a 2-post lift has to be used, it would be sensible to use supplementary vehicle stands to support the raised vehicle.

Thirdly, 2-post vehicle lifts are equipped

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with arm locking devices; it’s essential that these devices are engaged when the vehicle is raised. Therefore operators should always check that the arm locks are maintained properly, show no signs of damage or deterioration to their locking teeth and become engaged properly during use. Check that the restraint gears are fully engaged - if the gears have not fully engaged, lower the vehicle and gently move the arms forward and back until the gears fully lock into place. Never be tempted to deactivate safety devices – they are there for good reason.

Giving due time and consideration to the safety of engineers should not be a burden.

Indeed, good health and safety policy increases operational effectiveness and makes a business more profitable. D & H Equipment & Service in Manchester, MA Garage Equipment Ltd in

GIVING DUE TIME AND CONSIDERATION TO THE SAFETY OF ENGINEERS SHOULD NOT BE A BURDEN.

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AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET: GARAGE EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATION Cambridgeshire, Samoa Ltd and Premier Diagnostics in Banbury all acknowledge the benefits of the GEA, emphasising the association’s support in helping them enhance and develop the services they can offer.

The result of the GEA’s work as an association can be seen in the success witnessed amongst the membership in 2014. For instance, Trade Garage Equipment saw

AS THE GEA LOOKS AHEAD, THERE’S LITTLE DOUBT THAT THE NEXT BIG CHALLENGE TO THE INDEPENDENT AFTERMARKET WILL BE THE INTRODUCTION OF THE “CONNECTED” CAR.

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sales reach new heights, establishing the company at the very forefront of the garage equipment market.

Chairman Keith Fairlie spoke about this unique national organisation. He said: “Comprising of seven of the most experienced, regional UK companies, together they are dedicated to the design, development, manufacture, supply and installation of a top quality, trade approved range of garage equipment from the world’s leading manufacturers.

“Linked together as a national organisation, they have over thirty trade approved, locally based, technically experienced sales staff and more than sixty, trade approved, locally based, technically qualified engineers all working together, sharing their experiences and skills and this team enables ‘Trade’ to provide a profes-

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sional service anywhere in the UK, offering a level of ‘trade approved’ local technical support that cannot be rivalled by any other organisation.”

As the GEA looks ahead, there’s little doubt that the next big challenge to the independent aftermarket will be the introduction of the “connected” car. The GEA has already met with the vehicle manufactures and has lobbied the DfT and UK Bis explaining its concerns. In Europe, the EGEA and Figiefa are also lobbying for an open platform for the aftermarket.

The introduction of telematics, accelerated by the European eCall project, will revolutionise the way vehicles are serviced and repaired, enabling vehicle manufacturers to get real-time information about vehicles’ health status. This will give vehicle manufacturers a game changing advantage, as independent operators do currently not have the same access in the same timescale. As things stand, only vehicle manufacturers would be able to decide who has access to the vehicle and its data, which services will be allowed, under what conditions – and for what price.

This is why the GEA along with FIGIEFA and many other sector associations, as well consumer organisations, leasing companies and the European insurance industry, call for the implementation of an open, interoperable, standardised and secure in-vehicle platform.

In this way, a level playing field is ensured, allowing the independent parts and repair sector to compete with the vehicle manufacturers to the benefit of the consumer and the wider economy.

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: THE GUILD OF BRITISH COACH OPERATORS

HIGH QUALITY SERVICE The Guild of British Coach Operators is an association of top quality coach companies dedicated to providing our customers with a first class service. elivering a high quality service is the shared commitment of members of The Guild of British Coach Operators. Consequently, prospective members must achieve a 100% pass mark across 44 audit standards.

“Those who apply generally don’t get 100% immediately and aren’t accepted until they’ve met every standard,” recounts Administrator Richard Delahoy. “We’ll give them help but expect that they’ll already be doing the things our standards demand, otherwise we’d question why they want to join the Guild. Every two years they’re re-audited, the requirement again being a 100% pass.”

Ensuring members meet the criteria is important because they are required to demonstrate the highest standards in their operation. They’re also, emphasises Richard, expected to be active members who participate fully: “They are companies that share a commitment to delivering high quality service, want to share ideas and develop best practice. We all face common problems and members can exchange ideas, discuss problems, find ways to solve them and work together to help each other.”

Everything the Guild does is driven by members, a yearly

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: THE GUILD OF BRITISH COACH OPERATORS ‘think tank’ gathering issues and determining priority ones, feeding through into meetings of owners, managing directors or middle management. Recent topics have included shift patterns, the advent of Euro 6, understanding financial statements and depreciation policies while the biggest issue currently is potential driver shortages.

“If you look over the next five years at the age profile of the workforce and the difficulty of attracting new people, retaining and rewarding our drivers will become an increasingly difficult issue,” remarks Richard. “The whole issue of how we retain, recruit and value drivers is probably the biggest challenge we face in an industry that’s still very much price driven.”

Confronting and preparing for future issues enabled the Guild to deal effectively with the challenge of driver CPC training, becoming a registered CPC centre for periodic training six years ago. Like other courses it offers, training is tailored to the needs of the coach companies and is delivered by people who work in and know the industry. Richard says: “We are delivering

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a customer care course tailored specifically to the message a company wants and its ethos and culture. We’re also working to develop the skills of managers with courses on management skills, with a focus on our industry and looking for relevant solutions. We’re aiming to give people the tools to make the right decisions for their company.”

The Guild works with the CPT on major issues and with other bodies to establish accredited standards and recognition of skills. It’s all part of the aim to drive up standards and provide benefits for members. There is, however, no wish to significantly increase member numbers since that could dilute the level of effective participation. “We’re looking for quality rather than quantity,” comments Richard. “We want people to join us for the right reasons; because they share our passion and our vision for the industry, and are willing to get involved and commit.” www.coach-tours.co.uk Telephone: 08456 126225

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: WESTERN GREYHOUND estern Greyhound is a locallybased, family-run business that has been operating since 1998, and brought out its first public bus-timetabled services in December of the same year via contracts awarded by Cornwall Council. Established from scratch, they quickly built up a reputation for innovation and quality, increasing frequencies, turning loss-making rural routes around through regular clock-face timetables and all-day, seven day per week quality operations on core routes, with the original owner, Mark Howarth being determined that Western Greyhound would be a distinctive, high quality operation. Over time it became a regular year-on-year industry award winner and grew at its peak to over 120 vehicles.

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INNOVATION & QUALITY Western Greyhound is a locally-based, family-run business that has been operating since 1998

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: WESTERN GREYHOUND

In recent years, Western Greyhound has expanded within the transport industry with more contracts from both Cornwall council and Devon council, as well as more commercial services from all over Cornwall being added to their arsenal. Their long term goal, to bring a quality and reliable bus operation to the south coast, is what makes the company's standards so high and means that they maintain them to the highest level.

They offer several services primarily in the passenger bus service sector, but there are also various exciting days out to several local attractions and locations, including the Eden project, Bluereef Aquarium, and Newquay Zoo. Michael Bishop, who recently acquired the company from previous owners, has a grand vision for the future.

When asked of his plans, Michael enthused: “The company has a very exciting future ahead of it and will continue to be a well-respected local independent operator. We have identified areas of the business that would benefit from further development and investment to strengthen the commercial future of the company.”

Western Greyhound is proud to have been one of the first operators to set up a website with downloadable timetables, and also to have been invited to manage the new bus terminal that the council built in Newquay in 2004. It brings the company a great sense of pride to have won many awards, including being the winner of the Operating Excellence Award at the UK Bus Awards and runner up of the Bus of the Year Award for the last two years in a row, something that is quite an achievement for such a new company.

However, despite such vast growth, it still feels like the ‘family business' that was founded with just two coaches. On their home-grown atmosphere, Michael Bishop said: “Our services stand out against our competitors because we are a local independent company with a good family ethos and attitude within our management team, which is then extended on to our staff. We feel a happy atmosphere will generate a good work ethic.”

Western Greyhound, which currently carries 2.7m passengers a year, will continue with over 70 buses and 133 employees from the freehold Summercourt depot, together with a small leased outstation at Wadebridge. www.westerngreyhound.com

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: ATTAIN TRAVEL

FAMILY RUN EXCELLENCE

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amily run specialist coach and private hire company Attain Travel offers national and international coach hire from its base in Birmingham. With its modern fleet of coaches ranging from 16-seat minibuses up to 70-seat luxury coaches with onboard entertainment, Attain Travel has developed an enviable reputation for superior transport services. Whether it’s a family wedding, an educational tour or a day trip, the company is flexible enough to cater for a range of needs.

Run by the Costello family, Attain Travel was established in 1997 with a five-strong vehicle fleet and a bunch of home-to-school contracts. The business began to pick up work quite rapidly such as a partnership with a local nightclub to take customers to the venue on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. This

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: ATTAIN TRAVEL

THE SCANIA IRIZAR I4 TICKS ALL THE BOXES FOR US; IT'S A QUALITY PRODUCT WHICH WE ARE ABLE TO OFFER TO OUR CLIENTS AT AN AFFORDABLE RATE operation in Spring 2013. Dave said, “They drive really well, they look good, and they’ve got the carrying capacity for the work we do with no lack of legroom.

We can send them to London whereas, with the 70seaters, you don’t get the luggage capacity. We know they’re not a touring coach but they’re fit for the need of our customer base.”

This was the ninth new Scania coach taken by the firm, which operates predominately on schools' work and community group day tours. All 59 seats have the capacity to recline with three-point seatbelt, while the coach also features a courier seat, extra dark tinted glass, climate control and a DVD player and monitor.

"The Scania Irizar i4 ticks all the boxes for us; it's a quality product which we are able to offer to our clients at an affordable rate, which is an important point for our local authority customers," adds Dave.

saw the fleet increase with the addition of two 16-seat Convoys as the need for greater capacity was required. In time, as local authority contracts in the city came up for renewal, Attain saw its work grow. This also meant a move to larger premises.

Maintaining its strong family roots, siblings Dave Costello and Janet Mauremootoo currently head up the business.The varied fleet in made up of a variety of full size coaches and a small vehicle fleet currently containing more than a dozen minibuses. Although the company hasn’t a singular preference of vehicle manufacturer, Scania has proven to be a reliable source for its full size coach fleet.

One of its recent purchases was to replace its 1999 Century with a new 59-seat Irizar i4 bodied Scania K320IB 4x2 at the Euro Bus Expo. The modern coach comes with Opticruise transmission and went into

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: ATTAIN TRAVEL "The vehicle also has the 'wow' factor, and as such we know it will be very much appreciated by our passengers," explains Janet Mauremootoo. "Then there is the after-sales support provided by the Scania network, which is first class; it exceeds all expectations. Put all this together and the Scania Irizar i4 is a very attractive package, we're delighted with our purchase.”

It’s clear the company has a fondness for Scania vehicles and services. “We like the fact they are reliable and the organisation is user-friendly. If you have an issue and sometimes we do, there is a system they follow if you contact them so that you’re not pushed from pillar to post,” adds Janet, enthusiastically.

The small vehicle fleet supports the full size coach work by handling a wide variety of tasks such as local authority home-to-school duties, private and local authority day centres, trips and transfers for retirement homes and residential homes, school and college sports team trips, and a small amount of airport transfer work when requested. These vehicles are all under ten years old to meet the requirements of the local authority education tenders and include a mix of Ford Transits, Mercedes Benz Vario 614Ds,Volkswagen LT46 van conversions and Iveco Dailys.

ITS HIGHLY TRAINED DRIVERS AND MODERN FLEET HAVE COMBINED TO PUT ATTAIN TRAVEL ONE STEP AHEAD OF ITS COMPETITORS

More recently, the company added MIDAS training to its list of services. Previously costs to outsource the training were considered too high so a member of the Attain team acquired the DATS Driver Assessor Training Scheme qualification to train other vehicle operators. Not only are Attain’s driver’s assessed, training is also available to others, notably school teachers and community group leaders. This intensive day course includes both theory and practical elements and includes training in the legal responsibilities of a minibus driver, passenger safety, defensive driving, health and safety awareness, accident and emergency procedures, and personal safety for drivers.

Clearly, the company has every reason to look forward to the future. Its pride in delivering a service that is second to none, its highly trained drivers and modern fleet have combined to put Attain Travel one step ahead of its competitors in the West Midlands. www.attaintravel.com Tel: 0800 047 6983

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BUS & COACH REVIEW: DEWS COACHES

FAMILY BUSINESS CONTINUES TO THRIVE Whatever the event and wherever the destination, Dews Coaches can provide a comprehensive and bespoke travel solution ounded in 1953, Dews Coaches is a third generation family-run business providing coach services across the UK. From school and college transportation, to national excursions, vintage-style wedding transport, and even providing services for athletes at the London 2012 Olympics, their motto is “Let’s do it well”, and they stick to it by the letter.

“Over the years Dews Coaches has become the ‘first choice’ for many national companies. Whatever the event and wherever the destination, Dews Coaches can provide a comprehensive and bespoke travel solution,” said the company.

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“Although Dews is a family-run business, family members work alongside an extended team of drivers, schedulers, office and maintenance personnel.

This collective loyalty, hard work and support has created the business we are today.”

All Dews drivers are thoroughly checked, trained and qualified to the highest standard, and this training carries on throughout their career due to the changing needs of their customers, as the company explains: “Every driver undergoes continuous professional development to ensure their skills and abilities are up to date and hold a CPC card to this effect, allowing them to drive vehicles carrying passengers competently.” They also provide apprenticeships in all areas for the young would-be coach staff of tomorrow.

The quality and competence of the company's staff is not only praised by the company itself and their customers, but it is also one of only 50 quality assured CoachMarque operators in the UK, meaning that it provides excellence in every area of the business. Whether it’s regularly checking staff licenses, providing health and safety services, fully checking vehicles with the utmost care, or just making sure that customers are safe and comfortable throughout their journey, the thorough and friendly attitude of Dews is something to be applauded. Not only that, but all Dews coaches are guilt-free and certified “green” lowemission vehicles in compliance with London Emission Zone regulations, even implementing a tree and hedge planting programme to combat the company's carbon footprint in the local environment.

The company's fleet of six coaches boasts a

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BUS & COACH REVIEW: DEWS COACHES capacity ranging from a comfortable 29 seats to a massive 79 seat double decker, including a 1944 vintage Bedford OWB Coach which is popular among wedding parties. Dews also provides regular excursions to some of the nation’s most popular attractions, including Kew gardens, the Imperial War Museum, and even Harry Potter Studio Tours, meaning that customers never miss out on exciting activities.

ALL DEWS DRIVERS ARE THOROUGHLY CHECKED, TRAINED AND QUALIFIED TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD While Dews does run national excursions, it also provides custom private hire, tailoring to any needs that the customer may have. “Dews Coaches can solve all your complex travel requirements in a professional and stress-free manner. For excursions, tours, conferences, exhibitions, special occasions - you name it - just leave it to us,” continued the company.

“If you need to get a group of people to a special event, delegates to a conference or organise any other national or international coach-based travel – there’s a simple solution: Dews Coaches.”

01487 740241 www.Dews-coaches.com

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: COACH TRAVEL SERVICES

TOP OF THE CLASS

CTS provides travel to school services and transport for schools, private groups and youth organisations

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: COACH TRAVEL SERVICES

oach Travel Services has gone from strength to strength since it began expanding its service in 2006. Previously the company was set up as a parents bus club to provide transport to school dating back to 1985 before it hired coach operators to provide a more comprehensive school service. Today, Coach Travel Services provides travel to school services and transport for schools, private groups and youth organisations. Utilising a varied fleet, the company has a range of vehicle options to meet an assortment of customer requirements such 16-seat minibuses up to 78seat double-deckers. This is married to a

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close working relationship with other operators in the local area to provide facilities that meet all customer demands.

Mike Jessop, Director, says the company has built up an enviable portfolio of regular clients thanks to its reliability of service, value for money, and enduring high standards of comfort and safety. “We have a keen attention to detail, ensuring all our drivers are well trained and compliant with all the legal requirements drivers have to comply with. We offer a checking service to other operators and have an established approved drivers scheme where drivers are issued with an ID card giving them and their passengers information relating to the drivers

licence, DBS and driver CPC.This confirms their suitability to the job and that CTS has checked them for compliance. We provide work for other operators, specialise in moving large numbers of passengers efficiently and provide the back up to support our partner operators.�

Coach Travel Services saw big change in 2008 when Red Arrow Coaches ceased trading. It was at this time it purchased its first vehicle, a 20year-old Optare Delta DAF SB220. It now owns six vehicles ranging from 33-seats to 78-seats (all vehicles have seat belts and undergo strict routine safety inspections, and the company has facilities for wheelchair users as well).

The company also uses external operators and awards contracts on an annual basis to local

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BUS AND COACH REVIEW: COACH TRAVEL SERVICES coach operators. “We see the local operators as partners rather than competitors and work closely with them covering work for each other to minimise empty wasted mileage and fill up the day’s rotas for the drivers,” explains Mike.

Having a varied fleet and the ability to call on partners allows Coach Travel Services to adapt to the requirements of the client. “Flexibility with numbers is important to groups when planning a trip. We are able to give a per-head price to group organisers and fit the number and size of vehicles to suit their needs, thus avoiding potential losses when numbers do not come up to expectations and likewise if the number results in too many for a particular size,” explains Mike. He adds that operators traditionally quote based on a fixed seating plan, which does not always work for groups.

The company currently provides transport to school services from its base in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire to schools in Halifax, Wakefield and locally within the town. Around 450 children per day travel to school with Coach Travel Services. It also does regular baths and sports contracts, private hire work locally, nationally and into Europe.

“Our clients include private Grammar Schools and state funded schools including Huddersfield Grammar School, Crossley Heath School and Wakefield Grammar Schools Foundation. Our private hire clients include local sports and theatre groups and a wide variety of youth and activity groups. We support the local Scouts and Guides providing transport for small groups as well as transporting whole Districts to large events and Jamborees.

“Recently we provided transport for Scouts to Kandersteg in Switzerland as well as transport for an entire District of 10 Scout groups to the County Big Camp at Harrogate Showground. Being predominantly school travel means we always have vehicles available for Scouts and Guides during School Holidays,” adds Mike.

Part of the company’s success is its commitment to high standards. “We choose our drivers very carefully and find it takes a lot of time interviewing to identify suitable drivers. Being predominantly a school travel company it is essential that our staff have a good record, are well trained and have an attitude suitable and appropriate to our younger travellers’ needs.”

HAVING A VARIED FLEET AND THE ABILITY TO CALL ON PARTNERS ALLOWS COACH TRAVEL SERVICES TO ADAPT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE CLIENT The company has ongoing in-house training and uses external providers to ensure that it can offer both Driver CPC and other job specific training. Coach Travel Services also assists drivers with distance learning programmes to improve literacy and numeracy skills.

“We constantly strive to improve, upgrading staff uniforms, fleet profiles and corporate image to ensure we look and act professionally in everything we do,” says Mike. He adds that the company’s friendly team, attention to detail and efficient back-up services help Coach Travel Services to stand out over competitors.

It’s therefore little wonder the business is eagerly looking forward to what the future may hold. “We want to build on our reputation and continue to evolve responding to our customers’ needs. We do not intend to increase the size of the fleet but will be working closer with other local operators to enable us to collectively offer a reliable and efficient service to our customers.” coachtravel.me Tel: 01484 518908

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TANKERS: GCA DOMESTIC

ounded in 1932 by entrepreneur, Charles André, the Charles André Group is a European logistics provider capable of offering a service which extends far beyond that of mere transportation. GCA's dedicated supply chain units are active all along the supply chain and offers a bespoke service based upon the foundation of rigorous flow analysis through 85 subsidiaries within 15 countries.

Though initially established solely for the distribution of petroleum products in the Rhone Valley, the organisation has grown substantially and, in the 1980s the organisation became one of the true pioneers of combined transport and has since developed its network of cleaning stations open to other hauliers.Today, GCA offers a wide range of services throughout Europe, including road transportation, multi-modal transportation, cleaning, logistics, storage and stock management for sectors such as: food, automotive, construction, minerals, chemical, petrochemical and petroleum products.

As part of a large, pan-European business on a local level, GCA UK is able to benefit from the combined strength of the wider group, while also being able to operate much like a family business and an integral part of the local community. Surprisingly, despite the sheer size of the Charles André Group, the organisation maintains a very flat management structure able to preemptively adapt and evolve to the changing needs of the market. As part of this ambition to offer continually evolving services, GCA UK has invested into walking floor trailers with Legras and has subsequently opened up entire new avenues for the business.

Commenting on the management structure of GCA and the integration of walking floor trailers into GCA UK's fleet, Karen Wentworth, Sales & Development Manager for GCA UK said: “Groupe Charles Andre is a very diverse business and they actively encourage new activities in subsidiaries. Subsidiary Directors are set targets yearly around new activities whether it is within the core activity or a totally new sphere. For us in the UK this was more of a pressing issue. Currently the majority of the revenue is generated from one activity - the transport of bulk chemicals, liquids, powders and gasses, which we will obviously continue to grow and look for additional opportunities in.This market is challenging at the moment and one of the main issues is the drop in volumes due to the decline in UK manufacturing. That said, about a year ago we looked at ways of spreading our risk by looking at different activities and as a team we concluded that this could be delivered via new busi-

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TANKERS: GCA DOMESTIC

MORE THAN JUST TRANSPORT The European logistics provider offers more than just transportation.

Dedicated supply chain units are active all along the supply chain and offers a bespoke service based upon the foundation of rigorous flow analysis

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TANKERS: GCA DOMESTIC ness or acquisition. In conclusion we decided to pursue both avenues.

“Regarding new business, we looked a growth markets such as the movement of waste and biomass and started to actively speak to customers in this sector.

That has led to us putting our first walking floor trailers on the road late 2014. We hope to continue to increase the fleet in 2015 the aim being to have 10-15 on the road by the end of 2015.”

REGARDING NEW BUSINESS, WE LOOKED A GROWTH MARKETS SUCH AS THE MOVEMENT OF WASTE AND BIOMASS AND STARTED TO ACTIVELY SPEAK TO CUSTOMERS IN THIS SECTOR

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Though very successful in its core business, GCA UK has brought the trailers on board in a bid to opening up new volumes of work and opportunities for sustained growth within its sectors of operation.

Through adding an entire new dimension to GCA UK's capability, the walking floor trailers will be deployed across a wide range of applications due to their versatility – though initially being used for the company's current work in recycling and renewable energy, the trailers also posses the potential to be utilised further in future business projects. In addition, GCA UK is also set to implement a brand new SAP

system for earl 2015 as well as continually push its sustainability and health and safety initiatives for the benefit of all.

The Charles André Group is also an organisation which understands the importance of its staff in providing a consistently high service standard.

Approximately 3% of annual turnover is invested back into the training of its workforce.The training systems put in place by the organisation vary, but typically follow driver CPC and may include training for: ADR, fuel efficiency training, roll-over training, BSS training, toolbox talks and double driving days.

Discussing some of the struggles which the industry has faced and the company's ambitions for the future, Karen explains: “I think 2014 was a difficult year for the industry (bulk chemical transport) as a whole. The challenges being customers’ still looking for rate reductions while for the majority of the year fuel was still high.

The driver shortage is really starting to bite, specifically in our sector as drivers chose to migrate to easier cleaner work for similar pay rates and better general working conditions. And in our case due to our size we have the pension issue to tackle this year. Our main aims are to maintain our current profile in our core business and pick up work wherever we can; we are still actively looking for an acquisition and as previously mentioned we want to continue to expand our walking floor fleet.”

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NATIONAL FLEET REVIEW: R H LOGISTICS

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NATIONAL FLEET REVIEW: R H LOGISTICS

HIGH SPEC FLEET HIGH SPEC PERFORMANCE Utilising a modern fleet, state of the art technology & advanced warehousing, RH Logistics remains one step ahead

H Logistics, which specialises in the transportation of medical grade equipment including ultrasound systems and monitors, boasts an extensive fleet of vehicles that provide a dedicated service for the transportation of any goods.

Its high-specification fleet offers the highest standards in specialised transport from Luton vans to small Same-Day vans. Complementing the service is a full tracking and analytics system fitted to all the vans that works in conjunction with full vehicle CCTV. This new system constantly monitors the driving behaviour of the van and reports any sudden braking or turning acceleration and sends the office an email to

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inform them that an event has happened. The office can then view the CCTV and event on the Google map “live”.

The company uses the most up to date mobile satellite tracking systems from tom-tom Business to ensure that it has all the necessary key business data available to it, giving the customer total piece of mind with a shipment.

The fleet includes the Luton van 3.5 tonne and the Citreon Relay. The Luton van is seven metres long and has a capacity for 850kg. It is fully carpeted and features an integrated load lacking to the rear, fitted with a Radcliffe full enclosure tail lift that can support 750kg. The van has a rear opening of 2050mm.

The Citreon Relay is 6.2 metres long, weighs

3.5 tonnes and has a capacity of 1425kg. This is RH Logistics’ standard van size with a full counter balance tail lift fitted. The rear is fully carpeted with integrated load locking, and each van carries a 300kg folding pallet truck, curb ramp and a box trolley. The maximum door height for loading is 1790mm.

RH Logistics also offers customers extensive storage facilities. Recently, the company secured a new 12,000 sq. ft. unit in Stevenage that has a fully monitored cat 1 security system fitted with a state of the art new warehouse system linked to it. RH Logistics has now been using the facility for 12 months.

With its new spacious, split-level warehouse RH Logistics has the capacity to accommodate

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NATIONAL FLEET REVIEW: R H LOGISTICS

in excess of 600 pallets due to the 12 metre high bay warehouse on one side and the special products storage area of 7.000 sq. ft. The company provides a service that includes a bar coding system, full asset management including web reporting and full AEO (customs) load and secure storage system.

All equipment arrives in its secure medical equipment storage centre where it is recorded and tracked via the company’s barcode system.All storage is carried out by experienced in-house staff with the added benefits of climate control depending on the requirements of each client.

Richard Hindle created RH Logistics in 2003 for the very reason that he had terrible and often comical experiences at the hands of companies that today are RH Logistics’ competitors.

He says, “The team is reminded of this every day and my company strives to provide best of breed service each and every time we deliver.

“My initial expectations of what RH Logistics might do back in 2003 lasted about five minutes.

What quickly became clear is that every RH Logistics customer is different, and their needs

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“MY COMPANY STRIVES TO PROVIDE BEST OF BREED SERVICE EACH AND EVERY TIME WE DELIVER” can be incredibly diverse. For that reason I diversified a simple range of services to meet requirements from every possible user of the specialised transport sector.

“At RH Logistics we go to extraordinary lengths to please our customers and deliver their requirements however ordinary or out of the ordinary those requirements may be.”

This is indicated in the long list of endorsements the company receives. Kelly Whitley of NSpire said, “Our team in Vienna has contacted me to say that they were very pleased with the delivery and everything ran very smoothly. They commented on the professionalism of your driver and the pristine condition of the equipment.

Thank you so very much for all of your efforts.

We really appreciate it.”

RH Logistics has a proven track record in the specialist transportation of high value grade equipment including medical ultrasound systems, monitors and transducers. In addition, thanks to its extensive fleet of vehicles which provide a dedicated service for the transportation of any goods needing that extra care when being moved, the company has forged an enviable reputation amongst its clientele. This has resulted in new business while solidifying those relationships with long-term customers.

Certainly, RH Logistics has a bright future. www.rhlogistics.com Tel: 01438 742 012

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NATIONAL FLEET REVIEW: ATCHISON TOPEKA stablished for over twenty years, Atchison Topeka specialise in warehousing and transporting food ingredients, delivering them to manufacturing centers around the UK. Typical products stored and moved include chocolate, bagged powdered ingredients, jams, fruit mixes, starches, sugars and coconut products, as well as bulk ingredients such as liquid chocolates, sugars, fruit juices, concentrates, milk and whey powders.

Atchison Topeka's new National Distribution Centre is in the heart of the UK logistics network, and holds up to 20,000 pallets of compatible food ingredients from around the globe. The warehouse has been specially designed around the varying needs of their customers, whether it be wire guidance, man up trucks that eliminate product damage, or external docking systems that significantly reduce unloading times. “Our warehouse standards are the best in the industry; sup-

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WAREHOUSE & TRANSPORT EXCELLENCE Atchison Topeka enhance capability with new national distribution centre at the heart of the UK’s logistics network

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ported by HACCP, basic food hygiene training for all personnel, it is clear that we have set a new benchmark within our sector,” commented the company.

The company prides itself on operating a new fleet of ambient and temperature controlled vehicles, designed around the varying needs of the Food Ingredients sector. Bulk liquids are moved in a fleet of 80 road tankers while the dry bulk division has a big bag discharge system to deliver bulk powders across the UK and Europe. All tankers are washed and validated with Bio Trace to ensure they are 100% clean and have the highest level of hygiene standards for every load.The company also delivers an impressive one million metric tonnes of product per annum to over 2800 delivery destinations across the UK, all using their ambient and temperature-controlled trailers.

When asked about their partnership with the firm, Colin Bristow of worldwide chocolate manufacturer Barry Callebaut UK described Atchison Topeka as: “A crucial partner within our supply chain... They have demonstrated a high level of commitment through investment to provide consistently high levels of service at market beating costs. They are creative in their solutions and committed to future innovation.“ One of these innovations is the development and implementation of the market-leader supported ‘Real time integration services’. Being one of the first in the sector to implement these services means that Atchison Topeka can exchange order information electronically, thereby reducing overhead costs and eliminating order processing errors, which can often become an issue when outsourcing logistics.

In April 2012 Atchison Topeka were awarded with BRC Food Safety Issue 6 and BRC Storage & Distribution Issue 2 accreditation, a testament to their high standards. “Atchison Topeka takes pride in its robust food safety and quality management systems, including an all-encompassing HACCP system.

This combined with our knowledge and experience in this sector; allow us to truly offer our customer the ability to ensure food safety across their entire supply chain.” added the company. They also have DTAS accreditation, Soil Association accreditation, and provide comprehensive Food Safety and Quality training for all employees, meaning that Atchison Topeka routinely achieve a level of quality that is the envy of other companies in its sector. www.atchisontopeka.com

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PUBLIC SECTOR: NORTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL

orth Lanarkshire Council is in the process of setting up the ECO Stars environmental fleet recognition scheme in the area. ECO Stars is free to join, and is open to all operators of vans, trucks, buses and coaches of any fleet size who are based in, or operate regularly in the North Lanarkshire Council area. ECO Stars rates individual vehicles and overall fleet operations in terms of their environmental performance. As well as this, ECO Stars provides free advice and guidance to operators on how to improve fuel efficiency and reduce operating costs, thus saving operators money and helping to improve local air quality.

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When joining, vehicles and overall fleet will be rated by industry experts to assess their current performance - both operational and environmental - and achieve an ECO Stars rating between 1 and 5. A bespoke "road map" will then be produced containing tailor-made guidance to help improve the efficiency of the fleet, which will in turn save money.

ECO Stars was originally created in South Yorkshire and has since been adopted by other areas in the UK including Falkirk, Dundee and Edinburgh as well as several cities across Europe.

In total, the schemes have more than 150 members with 14,000+ vehicles.

By joining the ECO Stars Fleet Recognition Scheme members will be part of a UK network of fleet managers who already benefit from being

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part of the scheme. As well as this members will receive free professional support aimed at improving fleet management. Other benefits that joining ECO Stars North Lanarkshire can bring to a business include improvements to fuel efficiency by implementing the key measures recommended by ECO Stars. A typical commercial vehicle operator could expect to reduce fuel consumption at least 5% in the first year.

Members could also save up to £2,300 per vehicle. For an operator with 10 vehicles this equates to a saving of one whole tanker of diesel! This will also see a significant reduction in a company’s environmental impact. A typical LGV could see its annual output of carbon dioxide fall by six tonnes per year. Reductions in toxic emissions of NOx and PM are also possible.

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PUBLIC SECTOR: NORTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL

ECO STARS SET THE STANDARD

New fleet recognition scheme provides recognition, guidance and advice on operational environmental best practice

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PUBLIC SECTOR: NORTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL Plus, it’s free and simple to join with no formal audit process. There’s also tailor-made support and consultancy with fleet specialists on hand to help complete the application and give practical guidance and advice.

The scheme also helps companies raise their environmental profile. By becoming a member of North Lanarkshire ECO Stars, members will be recognised as an environmentally responsible fleet operator by other operators, customers and the wider community.

The fleet can be any size from just one vehicle up to large fleets, and can include all types of commercial vehicles from vans and LGV to buses and coaches. Members of the scheme can also be from any industry sector with retail, road haulage, industrial, parcel and courier, community transport, bus and coach service members already enjoying the benefits of the scheme.

The ECO stars scheme is another example of how North Lanarkshire is reducing carbon emissions in the local area. Internally, it has implemented a number of initiatives such as its innovative pool car scheme.

After the success of a pilot scheme the council commenced implementation of a council-wide pool car scheme which will eventually comprise of a fleet of approximately 200 vehicles.

Transport, administration, finance and HR staff

NORTH LANARKSHIRE COUNCIL IS ALREADY CONSIDERING THE NEXT PHASE OF THE POOL CAR SCHEME

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came together to help develop and roll out a pool car scheme across all aspects of the council. After a small-scale pilot the council has introduced 64 cars comprising 12 fully electric cars and 52 small petrol engine cars.

Electric cars together with their charging infrastructure operate alongside petrol cars at four locations with a further four locations offering petrol cars. As a result CO2 emissions are reduced and costs minimised.

The adoption of pool cars has not been undertaken to simply transfer miles from private car use to pool cars – at the same time staff have been encouraged to think about their business travel and think about combining journeys, using public transport or using technology rather than travelling.

Overall business mileage is falling and staff have the knowledge that the miles they do result in less emissions than previously and are undertaken in regularly serviced and maintained vehicles (a safety benefit which is

enhanced by each employee being required to have had a driver assessment before being authorised to use pool cars).

The council has benefited by reducing transport emissions which supports both its own Carbon Management Plan and its support and commitment to the Scottish Government’s Climate Change Declaration.

The next phase of the pool car scheme will enable more drivers to make full use of additional cars thus maximising the financial and environmental benefits to the council.

North Lanarkshire Council is already considering the next phase of the pool car scheme and will be acquiring more low emission vehicles including a number of slightly larger vehicles where necessary to allow specific staff requirements to be met. With this phase it is anticipated that another four or five locations and hundreds of addition staff will be able to access pool cars thereby increasing and extending the benefits these bring.

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HAULAGE: COBLEY TRANSPORT reating numerous partnerships has been partly responsible for Cobley Transport becoming one of the three main hauliers around Leicester. About 10% of turnover comes through Palletways membership and that, according to General Manager Nick Marshall, gives flexibility: “We run general haulage and groupage, managing consignments so vehicles don’t run empty. We have six vehicles dedicated to Palletways and use other vehicles to help when they are busy. We have more vehicles doing general haulage and they all work in conjunction.”

The business has been running over thirty years and has large contracts for regular customers such as Uponor, Triton Showers and Nippon Express. It carries anything from animal feeds to electronic equipment, including delivering supermarket checkouts using adapted double-deck trailers with Moffat forklifts.

They’re part of an eighty-strong fleet that ranges from Courier vans to 44-tonne trucks.

Coverage extends to the whole of the UK and into Europe, enabled by various partnerships. “We have partners around the country so, if we have a load out of the North of England to Sweden, we have it put on a boat up there,” explains Nick. “We have people in most areas who we speak to constantly and we all work together. Our biggest partner is Drummonds in Scotland and we have six trunks every night going up the M6 while they come down. We meet half way, swap trailers and haul their freight back.”

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Family run business Cobley Transport is going from strength to strength

A GROWING BUSINESS WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

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HAULAGE: COBLEY TRANSPORT INCREASED EFFICIENCY Those arrangements ensure efficiency and that’s increased through technology, all vehicles being fitted with tracking and telematics that have saved almost £100,000 in fuel and maintenance costs. Nick says: “We’ve reduced our accident rates and increased our MPG, insurance claims have reduced by 33% and we’ve saved on insurance premiums.”

There’s significant investment in transport software that includes online booking, track and trace plus electronic invoicing. It allows integration with other hauliers and, as Nick outlines, the same software is used by major partner Drummonds: “We have a POD exchange system so, when they put something on the system in Scotland, we can see it here. When we have deliveries going to Glasgow, customers can access PODs on our system.”Having closed its Berkshire deport as the recession took effect, Cobley is planning to consolidate its two Leicestershire sites. It has acquired a further eight acres at its Broughton Astley site and has received planning permission for a £3 million redevelopment there. That will create a 50,000 square foot warehouse and office complex, enabling the closure of Stoney Stanton and a big increase in efficiency, avoiding the need for artics to frequently travel the two miles between the sites.

The future for Cobley appears bright and Nick believes this is largely due to the service provided.

“Because it’s a family-run business, customers get that personal feel,” he says. “They speak to Operations Director Ian Cobley daily and, if there’s a problem, he can deal with everything. So they’re getting answers they want to hear, it’s a personal touch and there’s this family feel.”

“BECAUSE IT’S A FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS, CUSTOMERS GET THAT PERSONAL FEEL. THEY SPEAK TO OPERATIONS DIRECTOR IAN COBLEY DAILY, AND, IF THERE’S A PROBLEM, HE CAN DEAL WITH EVERYTHING”

www.cobleytransport.co.uk Tel: 01455 282111

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WASTE AND RECYLING: EIS WASTE SERVICES

COMPLETE WASTE DISPOSAL SERVICE

EIS WASTE SERVICES PROVIDES MARKETLEADING SERVICES FOR THE COLLECTION, RECYCLING AND DISPOSAL OF WASTE

ased in Aberdeen, EIS Waste Services provides marketleading services for the collection, recycling and disposal of waste in the North East of Scotland.

With over 40 years of sector experience, the company has a long-established reputation for the provision of high quality, reliable and on-time services, 24 hours per day.

Covering an assortment of waste-related services for the industrial, commercial, construction and domestic sectors, EIS has worked with a number of key clients including local authorities and key organisations within the oil, construction, commercial, engineering, retail and shipping sectors, thus firmly establishing the company as a jack-ofall trades in providing comprehensive waste

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services backed up by experience and dedication. In expanding its service offering, EIS has developed a state-of-the-art, modern treatment, transfer and recycling facility in the Aberdeen area, thus enabling the company to offer an increasingly efficient and high quality service.

Having modified its existing Waste Management License, EIS is able to provide a number of additional storage, keeping and treatment options such as: the designation of an area for the carrying out of the crushing of building rubble, bricks, concrete and rock utilising a portable rock-crushing and screening plant, the installation of bays to provide undercover storage for segregated recyclables, the extension of working areas to allow for new buildings and the installation of a Confidential Shredding System for the

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secure recycling of documentation and other confidential or counterfeit material.

EIS also boasts a large transportation and waste collection capacity due to the addition of extra Skip, Ro/Ro and compaction vehicles to the fleet so as to increase general waste collection and sorting capabilities. Paper, plastics, wood, cardboard, rubble, soils and metals are all removed from the general waste streams and consequently processed on site or transferred to appropriately licensed recycling facilities for further processing.

Not only does EIS provide a service which supports the local community in its delivery, but the company also pursues a number of charitable and local community initiatives to provide support members of the community. In the year just passed, EIS were proud supporters of the Original 106 Christmas Toy Appeal, donating a number of toys that the Original 106 split between charities: Children 1st, VSA Aberdeen, Instant Neighbour and Befriend a Child to support disadvantaged children and make their Christmas that little bit brighter.

Neil Sharp, Managing Director of EIS Waste Services commented on the work undertaken to support the Original 106 Christmas Toy Appeal: “The Christmas toy appeal is a great cause and we have decided that instead of sending Christmas cards to all our customers we would put the money to good use and make these children's Christmas a little happier. Every child should be able to wake up on Christmas morning with a present to open and have a smile on their face.�

www.eiswaste.com Tel: 01224 784100

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WASTE AND RECYCLING: POWERDAY

INNOVATIVE RECYCLING SOLUTIONS

POWERDAY IS A FAMILY OWNED RECYCLING AND WASTE MANAGEMENT COMPANY PROVIDING AN ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE APPROACH

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WASTE AND RECYCLING: POWERDAY ecycling and environmental issues are increasingly important so Powerday’s move into materials recycling was a natural progression. But, rather then simply diverting waste from landfill, the company approaches the operation in a far more sustainable manner than most.

Powerday started in 1977 providing labour for construction sites, moved on to plant hire and providing skips, then in 2006 built a large materials recycling facility at Willesden. Now it has three sites, with transfer stations at Brixton and Enfield delivering material into Willesden for processing, some being commercial waste but most coming from construction sites. The Enfield site is currently undergoing a major multi-million pound redevelopment as a new materials recycling facility that will add another

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300,000 tonnes of processing capability to Powerday’s impressive operations.

With a focus on diversion of waste to landfill, Powerday’s mission is a simple one — to recycle as much material as possible and then to produce renewable fuels in the form of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF). This fuel replaces the use of fossil fuels in energy plants and cuts inputs to landfill sites.

“We put mixed materials through our recycling plant, which separates cardboard, plastics, metals, stones and brick,” explains Sales and Marketing Manager Simon Little. “From the material that’s left over, we produce RDF which we bale, wrap and supply to energy from waste plants, mainly in mainland Europe.”

Powerday's approach means that large volumes of waste are being handled in the best way and in accordance with the waste hierarchy that

places landfill disposal firmly at the bottom of the preferred options. However, the location at Willesden Junction also adds a unique feature to the operation. Simon says: “ Willesden Junction has always been and continues to be one of the most significant rail intersections in the country.

We have two railway sidings and our site is off Scrubs Lane, which is a spur road off the A40, one of the major arterial roads into the centre of London. We’ve also got the Grand Union Canal bordering the site and have built our own wharf that can take three barges at any one time. So for a waste management facility, our transport links are second to none.”

That allows a choice of transport methods, with skip wagons and roll-on/roll-off bins coming in from customer sites and the transfer stations. Curtain siders that deliver high value items into the UK from Europe then backhaul

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WASTE AND RECYCLING: POWERDAY the RDF, which is cleanly wrapped in uniform bales, and are able to be loaded quickly and efficiently ready for the outbound journey.

Canal barges have been used in recent times at Powerday and there is scope for this mode of transport to be used more widely. As Simon points out, the operation needs specialist plant and advice to plan such an operation: “We’re working on a canal-side, major regeneration project, which we hope will see all their waste moved by water to our Old Oak Sidings plant.

We built the wharf here with exactly this type of scheme in mind so we hope to win the work.

We put in considerable investment to create the wharf with help from British Waterways (now the Canals and River Trust) and others so to see barges docking regularly at our wharf with materials to process would be very satisfying.”

It’s part of Powerday’s environmental and continual improvement focus that has seen an investment of £2 million in the last year in upgrading the fleet to Euro 6 specification engines. The company has also gained FORS accreditation, currently to silver standard with the prized gold standard award pending. In addition, Powerday has become a CLOCS Champion for its commitment to improving safety for vulnerable road users.The training behind this standard includes classroom work for drivers and, importantly, practical experience of cycling in London to ensure an awareness of the hazards presented to the many cyclists on the capital’s roads every day.

Transport manager Bill Cox says: ‘We are committed to creating a safer environment on the roads. This commitment is supported by our initial and ongoing driver training and the quality and safety specification of the vehicles we use in our day-to-day operations. Our customers

CANAL BARGES HAVE BEEN USED IN RECENT TIMES AT POWERDAY AND THERE IS SCOPE FOR THIS MODE OF TRANSPORT TO BE USED MORE WIDELY are playing their part in this, encouraging through their considered procurement these quality aspects as well as simple commercial considerations and this approach leads all transport operations to up their game.”

Like many companies handling construction and demolition waste, Powerday is a family firm with family values and so will continue to invest in plant and machinery to grow the business. At the moment, the focus is on development of the Enfield plant. “We’re making sure that we grow

our processes and management systems keep pace,” remarks Simon. “On the immediate horizon, we want to complete the Enfield development then, as we have done at Old Oak Sidings, invite our customers and stakeholders to see what we’re going to be doing. So the challenge in the coming months will be to get the plant running with the right material coming in, build our contracted offtake markets, continue to export renewable fuels and make sure we deliver the best service we can.”

www.powerday.co.uk Telephone: 020 89604646

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AGRICULTURE: AIC TRADE ASSURANCE

AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRIES CONFEDERATION AIC is dedicated to minimising many of the risks and challenges faced within the sector through a number of key trade assurance schemes ith an increasingly complex legal environment for modern businesses to operate, many organisations, specifically those within the food, livestock feeds and fertiliser sectors have been struggling to keep up-todate with the ever-changing legislation and public expectation. This is where the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) comes in to assist the supply chains providing input into UK farms and taking produce to first legal processes with widely-acknowledged assurance schemes.

Working on behalf of the agricultural supply industry, AIC is an organisation dedicated to minimising many of the risks and challenges faced within the sector through a number of key trade assurance schemes.

With a variety of trade assurance schemes for an assortment of company archetypes including schemes such as: UFAS (Universal Feed Assurance Scheme), FEMAS (Feed Materials Assurance Scheme), TASCC (Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops), FIAS (Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme) and ESTA (European Seed Treatment Assurance scheme); AIC has a trade assurance scheme to benefit any and all companies operating within agricultural supply.

AIC looks to provide real benefits to businesses involved with food, feed ingredients and fertilisers by helping them to: manage risk, comply with regulation,

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provide due diligence defence, join up with farm and food assurance schemes and receive mutual recognition with many European schemes. All AIC schemes are accredited by both UKAS and the internationally recognised standard, EM45011. In addition to the traditional assurance benefits for companies of quality and safety standards, Garry Rudd, Technical Manager for AIC services explains how AIC is also keen to promote security within the agriculture sector as a matter of priority due to the utilisation of agricultural goods in terrorist activities – this not only emphasises the importance of security in the agricultural sector but serves to support the importance of the work being undertaken by AIC for national security.

To maintain the level of industry trust placed in the AIC assurance schemes, regular independent audits are also undertaken to ensure that all organisations participating in the AIC schemes are following the codes of practice and meeting required operational criteria. Though auditing is initially taken out before a company can even become certified, these regular audits allow AIC to present only those organisations which are consistently proving standard levels worthy of the relevant AIC scheme marks.

The AIC scheme most relevant to hauliers and warehousing service providers is the TASCC assurance scheme, which deals primarily with combined crops such as cereals, oilseeds and pulses.The scheme covers

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AGRICULTURE: AIC TRADE ASSURANCE all aspects of trading, testing, transportation and the storage of crops and other feed materials.With around 1030 participants in the assurance scheme, approximately 95% of the market is now covered by TASCC, making it the leading recognised assurance scheme for hauliers and warehousing organisations.

Explaining the purpose and aims of the TASCC scheme, Garry explained: "The TASCC Assurance Scheme fulfils an important function in relation to food safety with regard to combinable crops and also the role that animal feed plays in the food supply chain. It was set up to ensure that grains, oilseeds and pulses are handled responsibly once they leave the farm, and includes specific codes of practice for haulages, merchants, storage and testing.�

As the TASCC scheme was developed for the simple reason that the modern farmer now demands that not only are crops of grain, oilseeds and pulses of the highest standard, but that they are also treated responsibly once they have left the farm itself, the scheme has become essential for hauliers and warehousing organisations to provide assurances of the oft delicate care required for the transportation of such goods.

Including specialist areas such as wheat processed by flour millers and malting barley for the brewers and distillers in the drinks industry, TASCC provides what is essentially an independent verification that the trade is meeting food safety laws and regulation.

In accordance with the internationally recognised standard, EN45011, the TASCC scheme is audited and certified by an entirely independent certification body to ensure reliability. This also means that even the certification body is independently assessed each year to continually ensure the standard is implemented and administered on a consistently fair and unbiased basis.

Additionally, TASCC dovetails with UFAS and with the UK livestock assurance scheme, Red Tractor for which major supermarkets make a requirement for the home-produced livestock that they buy.

Due to the incredible work which AIC has been doing to support hauliers and warehousing organisations for the agricultural sector, the TASCC scheme is now recognised within the food and agriculture sectors as being essential to maintaining and displaying traceability for assured combined crops after they have left the farm. This allows for organisations throughout

THE TASCC SCHEME IS NOW RECOGNISED WITHIN THE FOOD AND AGRICULTURE SECTORS AS BEING ESSENTIAL TO MAINTAINING AND DISPLAYING TRACEABILITY FOR ASSURED COMBINED CROPS AFTER THEY HAVE LEFT THE FARM.

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the sector to rest assured that assured organisations will no falter in providing reliable transportation and storage for agricultural goods.

To support TASCC scheme members with meeting benchmarks for transportation, AIC also provides a variety of training courses to meet individual business requirements which are registered with the Joint Approval Unit for Periodic Training (JAUPT) through key training service provider, MDM Driver Training which was established to provide training courses to meet the requirements of the EU Directive 2003/59, Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

In supporting TASCC scheme members even further, TASCC also works closely with agricultural experts, Bluefin on a programme called TASCCSure. The programme, which is essentially a specialist insurance policy exclusively for TASCC participants has been designed specifically for those organisations involved in the tightly controlled agricultural sector. Scheme members are able to utilise this programme to benefit from competitive premiums, higher levels of cover, service and yet another arm of support for them to rely upon.

To become assured, organisations are encouraged to contact Kiwa PAI, the UKAS-accredited product conformity certification body which specialises in agricultural supplies, food and farm certification. As one Europe's leading accredited food product certifiers, Kiwa PAI is a world leader in the design, implementation, auditing and monitoring of protocols which provide safety and assurance within the international supply chain. Through working with such a widely reputed and reliable organisation such as Kiwa PAI for assurance, AIC is able to guarantee both a smooth process for organisations to become assured and reliable and unbiased auditing.

www.aictradeassurance.org.uk Tel: 0870 300 0532

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Looking back at...

THE FORTH BRIDGE In our regular column we take a brief look at some of the great pioneers, innovators and technology that has helped shape the world’s transport system

he Forth Bridge was the first major structure of its kind in Britain. Even today, it is considered an engineering marvel. The cantilever railway bridge over the Firth of Forth in Scotland spans 1.6 miles with the double track elevated at 151 feet above the water level at high tide. It took seven years to build from steel with the mammoth task of constructing a bridge weighing in excess of 51,000 tonnes resulting in the deaths, by some estimates, of 98 workers.

The bridge was opened in 1890 and sees passage from the Lothians at Dalmeny to Fife at North Queensferry, connecting the north-east and south-east of the country. The bridge was only made possible because of other technological advancements in the 1800s such as the availability of steel after the invention of the Bessemer process in 1855. During the peak of construction, 4,600 workers were employed on site. Although the numbers of deaths resulting from the bridge’s construction differ, one logbook found by historians has 26,000 entries detailing injuries and sickness. Other research has found that at least eight men were saved from drowning by boats positioned in the river under the working areas.

Now owned by Network Rail, the Forth Bridge until 1917 had the longest single cantilever bridge span in the world. It still has the

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“... Like painting the Forth Bridge” is a term often said to mean ‘a never-ending task’, in the belief that the bridge is so big that once maintenance crews have finished painting it, it's time to start again. The truth is that the bridge was never painted in that way. Different parts of the bridge suffer different levels of exposure to the elements; the maintenance schedules reflected that. But it's all academic anyway as the bridge is having its famous red paint replaced with an epoxy resin expected to last for 20-30 years.

world's second-longest single span.

While the bridge has appeared in popular culture several times, it is most recognised for its brief scene in Alfred Hitchcock’s famous 1935 film The 39 Steps. In the 1959 remake, the bridge featured even more prominently.

The Forth Bridge, a milestone in the development of railway civil engineering, is quite rightly, a celebrated Scottish landmark. Not only was it the first major structure in Britain made of steel but it resulted in a continuous East Coast railway route from Aberdeen to London.

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ISSUE 155

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D R I V I N G

T H E

I N D U S T R Y

F O R WA R D

AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET

• general traffic • fix auto • garage equipment association

l a i c e Sp

attain travel - page 44

eis waste services - page 70

RH logistics - page 58