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NETWORKS HAVE A PLACE
Page 20
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I was astonished and greatly disappointed to read your front cover headline, "Pallet Networks—are they really worth joining?" (CM 28 Nov-4 Dec). The use of such a headline, based on the issues of one company, is misleading, unsubstantiated and misrepresentative.
Pallet networks are arguably the fastest-growing sector within the logistics industry. This is due to the inherent efficiencies of the network concept.
Member companies derive many benefits, including the ability to service their own customers' requirements in terms of the delivery of small palletised consignments on a national basis, thereby opening up a major new business opportunity for all those involved.
Vehicle utilisation is kept at the highest level in both the trunking and collection and delivery processes. Being part of a national network also enables the member to be part of a corporate and national brand.
However, it is true that service needs to be maintained at the very highest level for a network to be successful. This requires a two-way process. The member needs to perform at the local level, while the network provider needs to provide the processes and management control at the central hub.
Palletways has experienced phenomenal growth since its conception in 1994, with current volumes 55% higher than the same period last year. This is due largely to the level of service provided by the members, but just as importantly the service of the central hub to the member network.
On the article's publication date, Palletways processed in excess of 10,000 pallets through its central hub location. This is a significant milestone within the industry sector and the first time this has been achieved by any network.
In addition to this, a further 1,500 pallets were processed through Palletways Scotland and Palletways Italia, which we recently introduced, providing a combined total of 11,500 pallets in one night's operation.
Therefore, we believe the answer to the question "Pallet Networks-are they really worth joining?" is a resounding "Yes!". Craig Hilbert, Group development director. Palletways.