Tag Archives: transport

Driving, News

Truck Stop Praised for Driver Welfare Facilities

A STOKE-ON-TRENT truck parking site has been praised for the installation of top class driver welfare facilities.

ADS Truck Parking, in Longton hosted a celebration open day on Thursday 18 April, which saw many UK and International haulage companies in attendance along with MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, Jack Brereton and officials from the Department for Transport (DfT).

Following a welcome and presentation by owner Andrew Sargent in the brand new care area, guests were given a tour of the facilities on the day. 

Work has been completed following a £222,500 grant received in 2023, as part of the Department for Transport’s HGV Parking and Driver Welfare Grant Scheme, and now sees brand new shower and toilet facilities, a large cafe area with outside seating, plus a training room, along with a shop and social area at the site.

Security has also been further enhanced with fencing and all-round CCTV cameras.

Andrew said: “It has been great to be able to show all of the work which we have been able to do following the Government grant.

“We strive off providing the best possible facilities we can for drivers whose welfare we take very seriously. I have myself experienced life on the road during my career and totally understand how much comfortable facilities are important for drivers and that’s what we endeavour to provide now and continue to do so in going forward.”


MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, Jack Brereton said: “I was very pleased to visit ADS Truck Parking in Longton to see completed works as part of the £222,500 government grant towards improvements which are a significant improvement, helping ensure the safety and security of truck drivers.

“The new facilities which have undergone a major transformation have greatly boosted ADS Truck Parking as being a key stop-off location for hauliers travelling through our area. These new upgrades of CCTV cameras, security fencing, toilet and shower facility upgrades, alongside cafe and social area improvements. I know this will make a massive difference for truck drivers, supporting our local haulage industries and further strengthening Stoke-on-Trent’s economy.”

Roads Minister Guy Opperman said: “We’re investing over £31 million with industry to improve truckstops up and down the country, and the ADS Truck Parking is a brilliant example of how our funding is already delivering real improvements on the ground for lorry drivers.

“Lorry drivers are the unsung heroes of our economy, and we will continue working closely with the sector to improve working conditions, improve truckstops and improve careers, encouraging more people into the sector and growing the economy.”

For more information about ADS Truck Parking call  07462080094 and follow them on Facebook @ adsparking

Business, Driving, Transport

Veezu donates £1000 to Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation

VEEZU, Wolverhampton’s fastest growing private hire operator, has donated £1000 to Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation through the Funded by Veezu programme.

Funded by Veezu is an initiative in which local residents, charities and sports teams can apply for funding and grants, set up to improve the communities in which Veezu operates.

Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation is the official charity of Wolves FC and has delivered over 45 unique projects across the city in health and wellbeing, developing education and skills, and encouraging community. The Foundation supports people of all ages and abilities.

Kieron Ansell, Wolves Foundation Business Development Manager Business said: “We are really appreciative of the generous donation made by Veezu and would like to pass on the thanks of everyone at Wolves Foundation for the support.

“This funding is the only way we can deliver these wide-ranging works. In supporting us with this donation, Veezu are directly impacting our projects and helping us to make a positive difference in our local communities.”

Graham Hoof, Regional Operations Director for Veezu, said: “The Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation does incredible work in supporting the Wolverhampton community. We are delighted to be giving back and contributing towards building better outcomes for the people of Wolverhampton.

“Working within the community is a big part of what we do at Veezu, and we want to support as many local groups and charities as we can. Funded by Veezu has already been incredibly successful in making the work of local groups and charities possible, and we look forward to making a positive impact for the Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation.”

Appointments, Logistics, News

Kinaxia Logistics strengthens senior team with key appointments

Kinaxia Logistics has strengthened its senior team as part of a management restructure which will see it focus on further developing its customer proposition, driving operational efficiencies and unlocking the potential within the business.

Simon Nelson has been appointed to the new position of chief operating officer and Mark Tabor has joined Kinaxia as commercial director.

Chief executive Michael Conroy said the duo have vast experience at board level and possess great commercial acumen.

He said the appointments form part of Kinaxia’s strategy to work more closely with its customers and deliver high-quality services which are more tailored to their needs.

Simon joined Kinaxia and became managing director of its contract distribution operations after the company acquired Nelson Distribution from KNP Logistics Group last September.

Mark has over 35 years’ experience in UK and European logistics, working with a number of leading businesses including FedEx, Palletforce and Online MBT.

As Palletforce’s European development director, he oversaw the expansion of its cross-border pallet network from 11 to 30 countries and quadrupled turnover.

Michael said: “The new position of COO has been created to ensure our services more closely match our customers’ requirements. This will enable us to get closer to them, better understand their needs and deliver a service which reflects this.

“In addition, Simon will also drive efficiency across the business using technology-enabled solutions that will boost productivity while further enhancing sustainability, allowing us to generate additional value for our customers.

“Mark will play a major role as we continue to align our commercial proposition to best serve the needs of our customers with the agility to flex to quickly meet the demands of a changing marketplace.

“His appointment further reinforces our strategy to be completely aligned with our customers to deliver a stand-out experience to them and ensure we operate in a manner which drives long-term success for the business.

“With some of the highest-quality warehousing facilities in the UK, a depth of regional transport expertise and heritage that is unmatched, skilled and motivated people and a powerful palletised freight offering, we have a full end-to-end solution that can quickly adapt to our customers’ needs.”

Kinaxia, which has its headquarters in Macclesfield, Cheshire, employs more than 1,700 staff nationwide with a fleet of 800 vehicles transporting goods for the retail, leisure, food and drink and manufacturing sectors.

It has 2.7 million sq ft of strategic national warehousing facilities offering contract packing, e-fulfilment, returns management, storage services and a complete distribution service.

Business News, Cost of Living Crisis, Economy & Jobs News, Transport

Veezu Introduces Lower Taxi Fares in Rotherham

In support of the ongoing cost-of-living challenges, local private hire firm Veezu has announced it will offer the cheapest rides in Rotherham, starting from £3.80.

The decision to lower its fares follows careful consideration, analysis of market trends, passenger feedback and the current economic landscape. With the cost-of-living crisis putting a strain on many households in the community, Veezu has recognised the importance of offering relief where possible. The reduction will ensure that new and existing passengers have access to smarter local rides, at an affordable price.

Arnie Singh, Chief Operating Officer at Veezu, said: “Veezu is committed to supporting the community where we can, especially in times of financial strain. By lowering our fares, we hope to ease some of the burden on passengers seeking budget-friendly transportation options.”

Rides can be booked through the Veezu app or by calling the usual local number 01709 555 000. Veezu also offers multiple payment options, including Google Pay, Apple Pay, card, or cash, making it even easier for passengers to pay their fare.

To download the Veezu app visit www.appsend.me/veezu

Business, Cost of Living Crisis, Economy & Jobs News, Transport

Veezu Introduces Lower Taxi Fares in Derby

In support of the ongoing cost-of-living challenges, local private hire firm Veezu has announced it will offer the cheapest rides in Derby, starting from £3.50.

The decision to lower its fares follows careful consideration, analysis of market trends, passenger feedback and the current economic landscape. With the cost-of-living crisis putting a strain on many households in the community, Veezu has recognised the importance of offering relief where possible. The reduction will ensure that new and existing passengers have access to smarter local rides, at an affordable price.

Arnie Singh, Chief Operating Officer at Veezu, said: “Veezu is committed to supporting the community where we can, especially in times of financial strain. By lowering our fares, we hope to ease some of the burden on passengers seeking budget-friendly transportation options.”

Rides can be booked through the Veezu app or by calling the usual local number 01332 75 75 75. Veezu also offers multiple payment options, including Google Pay, Apple Pay, card, or cash, making it even easier for passengers to pay their fare.

To download the Veezu app visit www.appsend.me/veezu

Business, Charity, Charity News, Driving, News, Transport

Veezu donates £11k to Childline Cymru

VEEZU, Wales’ leading private hire technology platform, has donated £10,989 to NSPCC Cymru following a month’s fundraising activity. 

 

Veezu donated a portion of its margin from more than 100,000 rides in South Wales, booked via its app in December, to cover the expenses of 2,700 calls to Childline during the festive season as part of its Funded by Veezu program. 

 

Funded by Veezu offers residents, charities and sports teams the opportunity to apply for funding and grants to help support them with their local community initiatives. 

 

NSPCC Cymru provides support to children, families and professionals in caring for their children and providing therapeutic assistance to help children move on from abuse. Childline is a free service for children and young people in need of support or advice who delivered an average of 16,300 counselling sessions a month last year. 

 

This is not the first time that Veezu is supporting NSPCC Cymru, as they annually donate to the charity through their Childline Club Cymru membership. 

 

Hywel Peterson, Chairman at NSPCC Cymru, said: “We’re incredibly thankful for Veezu’s generous donation. It will make us make a big difference and help us ensure that our trained volunteer counsellors can be there for every child across Wales, whenever they need us most.  

 

Nathan Bowles, CEO at Veezu, said: “We are delighted to have raised so much for NSPCC Cymru. Their work is of incredible importance and is one that we admire so highly here at Veezu. I feel privileged to be able to contribute to their life-changing work.” 

 

News

Duckhams celebrates 125 years of winning

The original British motor oil, Duckhams, celebrates its remarkable 125th anniversary in 2024. Founded in 1899 by the visionary Alexander Duckham, his enduring legacy, marked by a relentless winning spirit, has captivated engineers and enthusiasts for 125 years. Deeply rooted in the pioneering spirit of its founder, Duckhams exemplifies British ingenuity on a global scale—a legacy that continues to guide the brand today.

Duckhams has been inseparable from the very essence of engine oil throughout the 20th century. Breaking boundaries in the skies and on the ground, in 1909, Alexander Duckham achieved the first powered cross-Channel flight alongside Louis Blériot. In 1949, Duckhams powered Goldie Gardner’s MG to break the world land speed record.

In 1933, Duckhams introduced the industry’s first Synchromesh Gearbox oil, and in 1951, Duckhams launched the first multi-grade oil—the iconic green Q 20W-50, which transformed lubrication technology.

From conquering the British Motorcycle Championship in 1955 to recent triumphs at the OR BRIC Superbikes Championship in Thailand and the Porsche Carrera Cup Great Britain in 2023, Duckhams continues to earn accolades in motorsports, showcasing the pioneering spirit that defines the brand.

Duckhams’ new Global CEO, Mike Bewsey, said, “As we celebrate our illustrious history, our commitment to advancing our groundbreaking legacy remains unwavering. Since the brand’s successful relaunch in 2018, Duckhams has received strong support from distributors and partners across the UK and developed its global network, with products now available in twenty-seven countries across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Together with our partners, we’ll continue to lead with innovation and victories for the next 125 years.”

Logistics, News

Almost half of UK transport and distribution staff still can’t afford basic living expenses, despite many working more hours than ever in 2023

With planned industrial action already hitting headlines in the first weeks of 2024, a new study has found that around half of UK frontline or deskless staff working in transport and distribution are still struggling to cover their basic living costs – despite many working longer hours than ever in 2023, to keep up with rising expenses.

The pan-European poll by workforce management experts Quinyx looked at the working patterns of frontline staff across several industries, including transport, warehousing and distribution. It found that 40% of UK employees in these sectors clocked up more hours in 2023 than in previous years, saying they needed the extra income to support their families.

Despite more than a third (35%) of staff receiving a pay rise in 2023, they didn’t feel better off as a result. Nearly half (48%) said their wages barely cover living costs – more than workers in similar roles in the Nordic countries (31%), The Netherlands (37%) and Germany (39%).

One in eight (13%) frontline staff said they’d had to use food banks, while around a fifth (22%) had to accept financial support from friends and family to help with basic expenses.

Toma Pagojute, chief HR officer at Quinyx, says: “As recent news of planned industrial action demonstrates, workers within logistics-based sectors such as transportation and distribution really struggled last year, and want a brighter, less stressful 2024. While many employees received pay rises, it seems they didn’t always have much of an impact, and workers had to put in more hours than ever. When the resulting pay still doesn’t cover basic living costs, it can be demoralising to say the least.

“Many organisations are facing their own challenges, of course, but we would love to see more of them placing renewed focus on their workforce’s engagement and overall wellbeing in 2024 – not just by looking at pay but on the overall experience of their staff.

“While there are signs of an improved economic outlook for 2024, changes won’t be felt overnight and there is more that bosses can do to prevent employees from feeling stressed, overworked and overwhelmed – this might be by offering flexible work schedules, improving communications, utilising more tech solutions, and ensuring working conditions are the best they can be.”

Appointments, News

New CEO for 125-year-old British brand Duckhams Oils

Duckhams, the original British motor oil since 1899, is pleased to welcome Mike Bewsey as its new CEO. With many years of experience managing multi-national lubricant brands, Mike has been appointed to lead the company through its next stage of global operations.

As Duckhams enters its 125th year, Mike will direct the iconic engine oil brand during a pivotal period in its development. “Duckhams is a great brand with a rich heritage, well-loved by mechanics and motorists,” Mike said. “Since its successful relaunch in 2018, Duckhams has received strong support from distributors and partners across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The brand is now available in twenty-seven countries, having doubled its global network over the past twelve months. The 125th anniversary is an incredible milestone, giving us a fantastic platform to celebrate everything Duckhams has achieved in 125 years of winning with drivers, workshops and distributors. It is an exciting time to be joining the Duckhams family.”

Mike began his automotive career at Unipart before becoming Sales & Marketing Director at Comma Oil and Business Unit Director at Moove Europe. Keen to support the broader lubricants industry, Mike served as Chairman of the UK lubricants organisation, the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS), from 2021 to 2023. He is currently President of the United Kingdom Lubricants Association (UKLA), leading their work to represent the lubricants industry in the UK and abroad, actively engaging with other trade associations and the UK and European Governments on matters impacting the lubricants industry.

Duckhams has a long history dating back to 1899 when Alexander Duckham first established his own oil company. His entrepreneurial, pioneering spirit has been at the company’s heart since then. Duckhams was responsible for the development of revolutionary new process oils that controlled the build-up of carbon deposits in the 1920s and launched the first synchromesh gear oil in the 1930s. In 1951, Duckhams introduced Europe’s first multigrade oil, an innovation which transformed lubrication technology forever.

Mike’s appointment comes after Rajat Moitra joined the business as Global Chief Marketing Officer, and Chris Clarkson became Global Technical and Procurement Officer at the end of 2023. These senior-level engagements have created a new leadership team with decades of experience leading multi-national lubricants brands.

With a motorsports legacy spanning over fifty years, Duckhams has sponsored winners in motorcycle racing, Formula 1, Formula 3, Formula Ford and the Porsche Carrera Cup. Duckhams-sponsored Jackie Ickx won the F1 Race of Champions at Brands Hatch in 1974, and in 1975, James Hunt won the Dutch Grand Prix in a Surtees. In 1981, Ari Vatanen became the World Rally Champion. Duckhams’ involvement with the Porsche Carrera GB Cup began in 2021 with a first victory by Duckhams driver Dan Cammish, followed by Adam Smalley’s victory in 2023. Duckhams are also OR BRIC Superbike 2023 champions in Thailand, solidifying their motorsports legacy.

Duckhams delivers high-performance engine oils formulated to keep engines of all ages moving. Their passenger and commercial vehicle lubricants are available in twenty-seven countries across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

News

Grayson eyes £25m electric vehicle opportunity with roll out of new Vehicle Thermal Management System

A Vehicle Thermal Management System (VTMS) that saves weight and optimises driving range for electric buses, commercial vehicles and off highway applications is marking its first year in production in style.

Grayson Thermal Systems’ revolutionary VTMS combines battery thermal management and heat pump and air conditioning technology into one single system that helps the end-user save costs and space.

The technology, which also incorporate waste heat recycling and electric motor cooling to deliver the complete solution, is expected to tap into the demand for cleaner transport and bosses believe sales for electric double-deck buses could generate £15m of sales by the end of 2023 and more than £25m by 2025.

In order to take advantage of commercial volumes also starting to grow from 2024 onwards, Grayson is investing heavily in its UK manufacturing and build capability, and this will lead to the creation of tens of jobs locally.

“The beauty of our VTMS is that it brings all of our proven battery thermal management and heat pump technology for zero emission vehicles together in one neatly packaged system,” explained Matthew Hateley, European Sales Manager at Grayson Thermal Systems.

“Our unique software platform and clever control logic allows component sharing for different uses meaning a smaller and lighter solution, whilst our technical team have also come up with a unique way to recycle waste energy back into the system – helping the battery conserve power whilst, at the same time, delivering optimum heating and air conditioning performance.”

He went on to add: “The commercial vehicle platform has been designed in a modular way so that the OEM can build-in the technical features they want based on system performance requirements, cost and weight targets.”

Wrightbus, a world-leader in hydrogen and electric technology for the transport sector, became the first company to integrate the Grayson Vehicle Thermal Management System into parts of its fleet last year, a decision that has helped the StreetDeck Electroliner to officially become the most efficient double-deck battery-electric bus in the world.

Official assessments undertaken at UTAC – using the ZEMO-accredited Ultra Low Emission Bus (ULEB) test – showed that the bus achieved a result of 0.68 kWh/km.

This is around half the energy consumed by its closest BEV double-deck UK rival and a major contributing factor to this impressive result was the low energy consumption of the Grayson VTMS to achieve the HVAC requirements and maintain battery temperatures during the test.

Matthew continued to say: “We set a high expectation for what we wanted to achieve in terms of weight and energy efficiency savings, so to accomplish the test results we have gives us a high level of confidence that our technology will change the requirements of electric vehicle HVAC forever.

“More than two years after setting out our strategic goals, it’s fantastic to see our Vehicle Thermal Management System on the roads in and around the UK.”

Ian Gillott, Managing Director at Wrightbus, said: “We are pleased to have integrated the Grayson Vehicle Thermal Management System into part of our fleet. This has resulted in our StreetDeck Electroliner becoming the most efficient double-deck battery-electric bus in the world – something we are immensely proud of.

“Thermal management is critical to vehicle efficiency and the partnership between Grayson and Wrightbus has allowed us to fully optimise this. Being a leader in the zero-emissions transport industry, it is pleasing for us that Grayson is doing all it can to further enhance our vehicles’ performance and green credentials.”

Matthew went on to add: “We are now into the next stage of the development to further improve our product to optimise the performance and green credentials of electric vehicles whilst meeting new legislation coming into effect in 2024.

“The VTMS is the latest system we have introduced to our product range, and we’re delighted to have played a small, but important role in the StreetDeck Electroliner being named as the world’s most efficient double-deck battery-electric bus.

“Both firms share a passion for innovation and that will only continue as we aim to deliver greener transport solutions for the sector.”

Grayson Thermal Systems has worked hard to ensure the VTMS is extremely versatile as it embarks on the next set of customer programmes to productionise its platform for the commercial vehicle sector, including HGVs (up to 28 tonnes), refuse collection and off-highway vehicles destined for mining and construction.