A family-run Durham logistics firm has expanded its services and reach and devised an ambitious growth plan thanks to its blossoming partnership with a national pallet network.
Logistics North East has broadened its regional footprint with Wolverhampton-based Pallet-Track and made a senior appointment as part of its growth strategy.
The Chester-Le-Street-based business joined the network in 2024 to cover postcodes in the South Tyneside and western Sunderland areas, across NE31 to NE36 and SR1 to SR6.
It has now added postcodes in the County Durham and wider Darlington areas to its portfolio, including DL4 to DL5 and DL12 to DL17.
Pallet-Track enables logistics companies, including independent and family-run businesses, to work together to transport freight efficiently around the UK.
The expansion, while increasing revenue, also adds operational complexity and greater demands on Logistics North East’s planning, fleet capacity and workforce resources.
To overcome these challenges, the firm has appointed an experienced general manager to steer operations during its growth journey and lead its operations, administration, and logistics functions.
Supply chain and logistics professional Josh Watson has been appointed to the role having previously held a leadership position at Nissan Automotive, working closely with cross-functional teams to drive efficiency and ensure operational continuity.
Josh said: “It is an exciting time to be joining Logistics North East; my vision is to build on the growth the business has achieved in the last two years and develop it into a customer-focused logistics company that delivers consistent, high-quality service while scaling sustainably.
“By investing in our people, embracing smart technology and building strong client partnerships, we can expand our reach and improve operational efficiency.
“Ultimately, we want to become the North East’s most trusted logistics partner, known for our reliability, flexibility and long-term value, and this expansion provides us with the opportunity to achieve that goal.
“The year ahead will be focused on developing our people, securing new customers within the County Durham area and beyond, and building stronger relationships with our existing clients.
“We anticipate challenges, particularly around cost pressures and capacity, but by remaining adaptable, customer‑focused, and committed to continuous improvement, the year ahead presents an opportunity to lay strong foundations for sustainable long‑term growth.”
Stuart Godman, CEO at Pallet-Track, said: “Welcoming Logistics North East to the Pallet-Track network in 2024 enabled us to strengthen our presence and growth in the region.
“We are very pleased to be expanding such a successful partnership with a business that shares our values and vision.
“We’re confident that this expansion will unlock new commercial opportunities for the team and support their growth ambitions, while also improving efficiency for all our Shareholder Members and customers. We wish Josh and the team every success.”
Logistics North East operates a fleet of 38 vehicles and employs a team of more than 80. It is also a member of the Hazchem and XPO.
For more information about Pallet-Track, call 0870 385 0055 or visit www.pallet-track.co.uk.