A Northamptonshire pallet network is helping to distribute critical equipment and food supplies UK-wide after joining forces with over 700 logistics businesses across the country.
In an unprecedented move, headed by the Association of Pallet Networks (APN), Fortec Distribution Network has teamed up with the UK’s eight major pallet networks to put their combined fleet of vehicles at the government’s disposal.
The unique collaboration is in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and will contribute to the express distribution of essential goods and provisions across the country.
Adrian Bradley, managing director at Fortec Distribution Network, which has its headquarters near Watford Gap, said: “We are proud to play our part during these challenging times, as the UK logistics industry joins forces to transport the most vital supplies.
“Thanks to our Fortec members – transport and logistics companies based all over the country – we will help deliver food, medical and pharmaceutical supplies, and vital goods and equipment to supermarkets, hospitals, pharmacies and other key locations.
“Collectively our sector has unrivalled resource and as a pallet network we are a key link in the UK supply chain, providing efficient forms of freight distribution and enabling overnight deliveries of consignments anywhere in the UK.
“At a time when small frequent deliveries of vital goods are needed at many drop off points, it is essential that all logistics firms pull together in this way to make a difference.”
Fortec Distribution Network has also put strict measures in place to protect its staff and drivers from coronavirus risks and to ensure it can maintain services. These measures include introducing contactless deliveries reducing the need to sign for goods, daily deep cleaning, and homeworking processes for administration and support teams.
APN chairman, Paul Sanders added: “We are uniquely placed to offer our services to ensure that emergency supplies coming from anywhere and destined for any corner of the UK, can be delivered quickly, safely and reliably to support critical services, whether in rural or urban settings.
“We would urge the government to take advantage of our unique skills set and infrastructure at this time of national crisis. The supply of emergency supplies for critical operations – not least ensuring food in our supermarkets and well stocked pharmacies and hospitals – is one of the most important aspects of protecting the UK public during this crisis.”