Family-run haulage operator Les Smith has joined Palletways, Europe’s largest and fastest growing express palletised freight network and part of the Imperial Group.
Les Smith Haulage Ltd, which is based in Swindon, will operate across Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire for Palletways including in and around the conurbations of Swindon and Hungerford. Les Smith is already handling 800 pallets every week for Palletways, ranging from single pallets to large scale consignments.
Nick Smith, director at Les Smith, said: “We joined Palletways because of its mature domestic and pan-European networks which will add value to our existing services. Palletways is ahead of the curve in terms of innovation and technology and its portal and state-of-the-art monitoring and tracking systems bring operational efficiencies too. We’re pleased to be part of Palletways and are excited about the opportunities it’s bringing, even during this current, challenging climate.”
Commenting, Rob Gittins, managing director of Palletways UK, added: “This appointment demonstrates the importance we place on recruiting experienced firms in the logistics industry. Les Smith is a great asset to the network and we’re looking forward to drawing on their experience to grow our presence in these counties.
“As part of Imperial, we are also a key element in their growth strategy. It’s thanks to quality members such as Les Smith that we are enjoying consistent growth across Europe, which will lead to additional synergies and business opportunities between Palletways and Imperial.”
Les Smith Haulage Ltd is one of the largest independent haulage companies in Swindon. With its head office on Greenbridge Industrial Estate and a second depot on Elgin Industrial Estate, it has 60 sq.ft of storage space across both sites. Started by its founder Les in 1975, it’s a well-respected local firm which today is run by his sons Tony, Danny and Nick.
Les came to Swindon in 1965, eventually working as a coalman for Stallards. When Stallards closed its haulage business, Les spotted an opportunity to start up on his own. His reputation grew with an increasing number of local firms depending on him for the reliable delivery of their goods. A silver FORS member, Les Smith now owns and operates 45 trucks and delivers to all corners of the UK mainland for many of the region’s most prominent firms and employs 60 people.
The company is one of over 115 independent transport providers that are part of the Palletways UK network. They benefit from shared expertise and resources from within the group to deliver consignments of palletised freight to market faster and more cost effectively than ever before. The Palletways Group comprises 450+ depots and 20 hub operations, through which it provides collection and distribution services across 20 European countries, including the UK.
