Leicestershire-based distribution network wins big at prestigious national awards

Operating from its Central Hub in Coalville, Pall-Ex Group’s continuous strive for excellence has been recognised after the distribution network received the Livery of the Year Award at this year’s Motor Transport Awards. The logistics giant also narrowly missed out on taking home the Safety in Operation Award and Team of the Year after being shortlisted for all three awards.

As the only pallet network to win an award at this prestigious national event is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its team, constantly pushing boundaries to lead the way in palletised freight distribution.

The Group’s winning livery was conceptualised by Marketing Assistant Jack Bedford after being in the business for just three months. After achieving the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award, Jack set out to create a striking design that would symbolise the Group’s commitment to the Armed Forces community and becoming the employer of choice for those leaving the military.

The camouflage-inspired design was unveiled at last year’s Reserves Forces and Cadets Association event ahead of Remembrance Sunday and has already been showcased across the UK at a number of military events.

Pall-Ex Group initially signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2019, and was awarded the ERS Gold Award in 2022, only one of only 18 businesses in the East Midlands. The accreditation represents the businesses on-going work to support ex-military personnel via training, careers and charity fundraising, with over £40,000 raised for Combat Stress.

With 70 of its 160 members having already signed the pledge, the Group plans to roll out the award-winning livery across the network to members achieving the ERS Gold status. Sister network, Fortec Distribution, showcased the first additional design, with both liveries making a surprise appearance on London’s Park Lane as industry guests and judges made their way to into the awards ceremony.

As a Leicestershire based business, but with global reach, Pall-Ex Group was thrilled to be shortlisted for three awards, but being crowned with the Livery of the Year title cements is commitment to the Armed Forces and long-term vision of excellence.

Pall-Ex Group CEO, Kevin Buchanan, commented: “The standout livery not only sets Pall-Ex and Fortec apart on the road, but as a business, representing our support for Armed Forces personnel, from our fundraising to offering job opportunities.

“To be recognised with the Livery of the Year Award at the Motor Transport Awards, the industry’s benchmark for excellence, is a fantastic achievement for not only Pall-Ex Group but the people behind the pallets that work hard to drive us forward on the road to excellence in every aspect.

“A special mention to our budding young designer Jack Bedford, who worked hard in designing the livery and is a leading example of the nurturing environment we have created for our young professionals as they grow into their careers at Pall-Ex Group.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to extend huge congratulations to all those who were shortlisted and of course the winners.”