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Celebrating Jade and Jackson’s Apprenticeship SuccessCelebrating Jade and Jackson’s Apprenticeship Success
Featured

Celebrating Jade and Jackson’s Apprenticeship Success

At Browns Distribution, we believe that when our people grow, the business grows with them. That’s why we’re always proud to celebrate team members who want invest in their own development and take the next step in their careers. Recently, two of...

Why the Midlands Is the Ideal Hub for High-Volume UK Distribution! missing alt!
Industry

Why the Midlands Is the Ideal Hub for High-Volume UK Distribution

For businesses managing large volumes of stock, choosing the right distribution hub is a critical strategic decision. Location, infrastructure, and operational capability all play a major role in determining how efficiently goods move through the supply chain. The Midlands and particularly Stoke-on-Trent, has become one of the UK’s most effective hubs for warehousing and contract logistics, offering national reach, excellent transport links, and access to modern warehousing facilities built for scale. Stoke & the Midlands: At the Heart of UK Distribution Geographically, the Midlands sits at the centre of the UK, making it a natural choice for nationwide distribution. From Stoke-on-Trent, businesses can reach: Major cities including Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Leeds, and Sheffield Key motorway networks including the M6, A50, A500, and M1 This central positioning significantly reduces transit times, fuel costs, and delivery miles which is a major advantage for high-volume distribution operations where efficiency at scale matters. Why Stoke-on-Trent Is a Strategic Logistics Location Stoke-on-Trent has quietly become a highly attractive location for logistics and contract warehousing operations, particularly for businesses with national distribution requirements. Key advantages include: Direct access to the M6 — one of the UK’s most important north–south freight routes Strong east–west connectivity via the A50 , linking the North West and East Midlands Lower congestion compared to larger logistics hotspots Competitive operating costs without sacrificing connectivity For businesses moving high volumes daily, fewer delays and predictable transport routes translate directly into improved service levels and cost control. Reduced Delivery Times, Improved Service Levels Operating from a central Midlands hub allows logistics providers to offer: Faster delivery to both northern and southern regions Consistent next-day delivery performance Reduced reliance on satellite depots For large retailers, manufacturers, and e-commerce brands, this means improved OTIF (On-Time, In-Full) performance, fewer exceptions, and a more reliable end-customer experience. Modern Warehousing Built for High-Volume Operations Location alone isn’t enough. High-volume and contract logistics require warehousing infrastructure designed for scale, efficiency, and long-term partnerships . Modern warehousing facilities in Stoke-on-Trent are purpose-built to support: High pallet volumes and fast-moving inventory Scalable storage solutions for long-term contracts Efficient inbound and outbound flows Integrated warehouse management systems (WMS) This combination of space, technology, and process allows logistics providers to handle complex, high-throughput operations without compromising accuracy or control. Supporting Long-Term Contract Logistics Partnerships For businesses entering contract logistics agreements, stability and scalability are essential. A centrally located, modern warehouse allows providers to support: Seasonal peaks and demand fluctuations Business growth without frequent relocations Custom processes tailored to specific client requirements Transparent reporting and KPI management Being based in Stoke-on-Trent enables logistics partners to offer long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes , making it ideal for enterprise-level accounts. Cost Efficiency Without Compromise Compared to traditional logistics hotspots in the South East, the Midlands and Stoke-on-Trent in particular offers a more cost-effective operating environment. Benefits include: Competitive warehousing and labour costs Reduced fuel and mileage expenses due to central routing Lower congestion-related delays Strong local workforce with logistics experience These efficiencies allow logistics providers to reinvest in technology, facilities, and service quality, delivering better value for high-volume clients. A Strong Labour and Skills Base The Midlands has a long industrial and logistics heritage, providing access to a skilled workforce familiar with warehouse operations, distribution, and supply chain management. Working alongside the pottery industry since 1955 , Browns understands what goes into transporting and storing delicate goods. As the Potteries moved away from the pottery industry and into the raw materials and finished goods industry, Browns followed as a service provider for storing and transporting pottery, raw materials and finished goods for the past 70 years. Combined with modern facilities and well-defined processes, this creates an environment where high-volume logistics operations can run reliably and consistently, even at peak demand. Future-Proofing UK Distribution As supply chains become more complex and customer expectations continue to rise, centralisation and efficiency are more important than ever. A Midlands-based distribution model offers: Flexibility to adapt to changing volumes Resilience against regional disruption A strong foundation for national growth For businesses looking to future-proof their UK distribution strategy, Stoke-on-Trent provides the ideal balance of location, infrastructure, and operational capability. Why the Right Location Still Matters In an increasingly competitive logistics landscape, the right distribution hub can be the difference between simply moving goods and delivering a true competitive advantage. With its central UK location, excellent transport links, modern warehousing facilities, and cost-effective operations, Stoke-on-Trent stands out as an ideal base for high-volume and contract logistics.

Choosing the Right Warehousing Partner in 2026! missing alt!
Insight

Choosing the Right Warehousing Partner in 2026

Happy New Year and welcome to our first blog of 2026! A new year is a great time to review how your supply chain is working and whether your warehousing setup is really supporting your business. Whether you’re managing steady volumes or planning for growth, choosing the right warehousing partner plays a big role in keeping stock moving efficiently and customers happy. In this guide, we’ll cover what warehousing involves, who it’s right for, and what to look for when selecting a warehouse that fits your operation now and in the future. What Is Warehousing and Who Is It For? Warehousing is the storage and management of goods before they are distributed, sold, or delivered to customers. It’s used by manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, retailers, and e-commerce businesses – any organisation that handles physical stock. Some businesses use warehousing to manage seasonal demand or overflow stock. Others rely on it as a long-term solution to support regular distribution. In both cases, third-party warehousing removes the need to invest in buildings, systems, and warehouse staff, while keeping stock accessible when it’s needed. Why Warehousing Matters Warehousing sits at the heart of the supply chain. When it runs smoothly, everything else benefits. The right warehousing partner can help you to: Improve efficiency across your supply chain Control storage and handling costs Maintain accurate stock levels Meet customer delivery expectations Scale without constantly changing facilities But before choosing a warehouse and provider, it’s worth being clear on a few key points: Your stock profile What goods are you storing? Are there size, weight, or handling considerations? Your volumes Average and peak pallet quantities, plus how quickly stock moves. Your location needs Where your customers are based and how often goods need to be moved. Your service levels Inbound, outbound, and any additional services required. Clear answers upfront make the selection process far simpler. What to Look for in a Warehousing Partner There’s no shortage of warehouse space available, but not every facility is right for every business. The ideal warehousing partner should be able to handle your current requirements while leaving room to grow. Key factors to consider include: Suitable space for your pallet sizes and weights Capacity to manage busy periods without disruption Efficient layout and handling processes Strong accreditations and safety standards, such as BRCGS and ISO If your goods require special handling or non-standard pallet sizes, the warehouse needs to be set up for this from the outset. Spending time on this stage can prevent issues later. Questions Worth Asking Before You Commit When comparing providers, these questions can help guide your decision: Is there undercover loading and unloading? Is the warehouse clean, organised, and secure? Are dock levellers in place? Is lighting suitable for safe and accurate handling? What daily throughput can the operation manage? What warehouse management system is used? Is the site secured with CCTV and access controls? Are racking dimensions suitable for your pallets? What stock rotation methods are used? What are the RH&D charges (receipt, handling and despatch)? What are the costs for container unloading if required? Clear, confident answers usually point to a well-run operation. Transparency, Systems, and Site Visits A strong warehousing relationship relies on clarity and trust. Any warehousing provider should be open about processes, pricing, and service levels. Unexpected charges and unclear communication tend to cause problems over time. A site visit is always worthwhile, and something we always advise our potential customers to do. Seeing how stock is received, stored, and despatched gives a much better understanding of how your goods will be handled. Modern warehouse management systems also play a key role, providing real-time stock visibility and accurate reporting to support better decision-making. What Are Typical Warehousing Costs? Pallet storage is usually charged per pallet, per week, with handling charges applied for inbound and outbound movements. However, the warehousing solutions Browns provide are often bespoke, shaped around your volumes, stock profile and operational needs. Location can also affect cost. Warehousing in the South of England, particularly around London, generally attracts higher rates than facilities in the Midlands or North. If you’re reviewing your warehousing setup for 2026 or looking for a reliable long-term warehousing partner, Browns Distribution can help. Our warehousing and storage services are built around secure facilities, experienced teams, and straightforward pricing. Get in touch to discuss how we can support your business this year.

Backing Our Drivers: Improved driver pay backed by long-term investment! missing alt!
Company

Backing Our Drivers: Improved driver pay backed by long-term investment

We’re proud to be increasing driver pay across the board as part of our long-term strategy to strengthen our driver team and protect service quality for the future. From November 2025, hourly pay for driving staff will increase to: • Class 2 Drivers: £13.50 (3.85% increase) • Class 1 Drivers: £14.75 (7.3% increase) • Class 1 Night Drivers: £15.25 (3.5% increase) Day in, day out, our drivers work to tight delivery windows, manage complex schedules and still deliver a friendly, professional and reliable service Browns is known for. This investment is a clear thank you for that responsibility and the skill it takes to keep palletised freight moving reliably across the country. David Brown Jnr, Managing Director said: This investment isn’t just about pay, it’s about recognising our drivers as professionals and backing the people who keep our service running smoothly. When we look after our drivers, we protect the reliable, high-quality service our customers expect from Browns , and we stay a place where great drivers feel valued, supported and proud to work. More than pay – a wider investment This increase builds on our strong package of perks and benefits, including: • Modern, well-maintained vehicles and equipment • Support and guidance from a dedicated Driver Trainer • Regular ongoing training and CPC support • Funded licence admin fees and driver card renewals • Funded HGV medicals and eye tests • Discounted gym membership • Friendly team culture built on respect and fairness Since 2023, we’ve also made a £5.6m investment in our fleet, bringing in over 30 new tractor units and over 40 new trailers to improve efficiency and reduce downtime. These latest truck models and equipment mean greater reliability for customers, and more comfortable, better-equipped cabs for our drivers out on the road. Why it matters By investing in our people and our fleet, we’re strengthening our driver team and our operation, helping us protect service levels and ensure we continue delivering the dependable, on-time service our customers trust. Join our team If you’re an experienced driver looking for a rewarding career with a family-run company that values its team, we’d love to hear from you. Visit our careers page or contact our recruitment team to find out more about current driving opportunities.

Christmas Schedule 2025! missing alt!
Company

Christmas Schedule 2025

As we head towards the festive season, we want to make sure your freight keeps moving smoothly. Below you’ll find our Christmas 2025 operating schedule, including delivery cut-off dates to help you plan ahead. Planning ahead The run-up to Christmas is one of the busiest times of year for pallet transport across the UK. To keep everything running smoothly, we recommend booking collections and deliveries as early as possible. This helps us make sure your pallets reach their destination on time and schedule. Need support? If you have any questions about your deliveries or need help planning your schedule, our Customer Support Team will be happy to help. You can reach them at 01782 525300 or email info@brownsgroup.co.uk . Last delivery dates table.christmas-cutoff { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: inherit; } .christmas-cutoff th, .christmas-cutoff td { border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 0.6rem 0.8rem; text-align: left; } .christmas-cutoff thead th { background: #ff4d00; color: #fff; } .christmas-cutoff tbody tr:nth-child(even) { background: #f7f7f7; } Service Booked by Delivered by Eco 48 Hour Monday 22 December Wednesday 24 December Premium 24 Hour Tuesday 23 December Wednesday 24 December Saturday Delivery Tuesday 23 December Saturday 27 December Click here , or the button below to view and download our full schedule and delivery times. Thank you for your continued support throughout 2025. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year, from all of us at Browns.

Exceptional safety culture wins Palletline 11th ROSPA Gold Award! missing alt!
Industry

Exceptional safety culture wins Palletline 11th ROSPA Gold Award

Originally published by Motor Transport, Monday, 15 September 2025. Palletline has earned the prestigious Gold Award from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) for the eleventh time, after demonstrating a stringent workplace culture encompassing every aspect of health and safety and the physical and mental wellbeing of every member of staff. The accolade recognises the palletised freight distribution network’s consistent efforts to ensure that its health and safety culture is ingrained at every level of the operation – not just across its network of hubs, offices and warehouses but across its 96 members. Announcing the award, Palletline said safety is not just a policy at the network but is embedded in its DNA, shaping every aspect of its operation, with the network boasting the lowest accident rates in the industry. The RoSPA national accreditation is given to businesses and organisations which have implemented world-leading health and safety policies, with rigorous management systems, outstanding control of risk in the workplace and very low levels of error, harm or loss. Palletline has to meet an exacting set of criteria each time to win the award. Workforce buy-in at every level of the operation is measured alongside the company’s accident record and its health and safety management systems. Graham Leitch, Palletline chief executive, said: “This award is a real testament to every member of the Palletline team. “By the very nature of our industry where challenges can arise at any given moment every day continues to be a learning curve. “As such we will continue to strive for the highest levels of safety in everything we do as we seek to build on the standards that have already earned us the reputation as the UK pallet network’s industry leader in health and safety innovation.” Palletline, which was launched in 1992, is a 78-strong member-owned network, made up of a 12,000-strong workforce. It operates a daily fleet exceeding 6,000 vehicles across 96 strategically-located depots, handling more than four million pallets of freight each year. Over the years the company has introduced a series of industry firsts, including being the first network to introduce a 750kg weight limit on unassisted tail deliveries, which have since been adopted by other networks and operators across the wider transport industry. Innovations such as drive-through warehouses, pedestrianised operations, one way traffic systems and 10 mph speed limits and more recently the prevention of forklifts from lifting loads exceeding 400kg above 1.2m, mitigating double deck trailer loading risks, have all contributed to Palletline’s exemplary safety record. Its revolutionary Palleteyes system is among the network’s latest game changers. The first forklift-mounted CCTV and scanning system enhances operational efficiency while significantly reducing risks.

Palletline Partners with Auditel to Drive Carbon Neutrality Across Its Network! missing alt!
Industry

Palletline Partners with Auditel to Drive Carbon Neutrality Across Its Network

Originally published by UK Haulier, Thursday, 28 August 2025. Palletline , the UK’s leading palletised freight distribution network, is stepping up its sustainability efforts by partnering with Auditel , experts in carbon management and cost reduction solutions. Together, the two businesses have developed a robust methodology for capturing verifiable data across Palletline’s entire network to measure carbon impact with the ultimate aim of making all hubs and its 96-member network net carbon neutral – a first for the industry. And through a series of decarbonisation projects Palletline has already reduced carbon emissions by 20-25% at its central hub. Palletline has long been at the forefront of sustainability. It was the first network to achieve ISO 50001 certification and continues to lead the way by meeting the accreditation’s stringent energy management standards by demonstrating improvement year on year. A trailblazer in the sector and with innovation at the core of its DNA, Palletline first commenced energy data collection in 2015. In 2018, the company introduced an industry leading energy-saving programme and has continued to make significant progress overcoming challenges like COVID-related fluctuations which resulted in volumes reaching record levels. By 2022 however the results were clear. Substantial investments, including the installation of LED lighting, skylights, and a new FLT fleet in 2023, culminated in the company’s most energy-efficient year ever. A key milestone was when Palletline identified that LPG accounted for nearly 70% of its carbon footprint at the central hub. Its new, more efficient fleet, including 10 electric forklifts, has already reduced energy usage by 20% annually. Additionally, the company’s unique multi-hub model too has made a considerable dent by reducing 3 million+ trunking miles per year compared to a single hub model. The partnership with Auditel will enable Palletline to map its entire network’s energy use, pinpointing areas for further improvement and implementing decarbonisation strategies that will make a tangible impact. Carbon footprint analysis is already underway for many network members which includes data collection across Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions and will enable Palletline to accurately calculate the individual CO2 footprint for every pallet handled throughout the Palletline network. Harpreet Sohal, Palletline’s Director of Business Information, leads the initiative. “Palletline has always been environmentally conscious and we are committed to improving our sustainability now and for the future. “Our partnership with Auditel provides the expertise and integrity needed to scale our sustainability efforts. By working together and undertaking our data capturing processes and measurement will provide a clear strategy in helping us to improve our carbon footprint and drive down our emissions further reinforcing our market leading position.”

Route Planning to Routine Planning: Dan's 45kg Weight Loss Story! missing alt!
Community

Route Planning to Routine Planning: Dan's 45kg Weight Loss Story

At Browns, we love to celebrate our people not just for what they do on the clock, but for who they are beyond their work too. This month, we're giving a big shout out to someone who's inspired everybody at Distribution House: Dan Penfold, a Transport Planner on our General Haulage team. Over the last year, Dan's taken on a personal challenge that's blown us away. He's dropped over 45kg through hard work, discipline and determination. I started off my journey on July 13th 2024, weighing 106.2kg. I went clothes shopping but couldn't fit into the clothes I wanted. I was going for the biggest size of 2XL, but when that was too tight, I knew enough was enough. That moment sparked a major turning point. Dan signed up with a fitness and lifestyle coach, setting an initial target of 90kg. But as the weight came off and confidence kicked in, he pushed for more, even booking a professional photoshoot to mark one year of progress. In January 2025, weighing in at 85kg, I booked the photoshoot for July 13th 2025 to mark one whole year on the coaching programme. Fast forward to this summer, and Dan's hit his lowest weight of 60.5kg. That's a 45.7kg drop, and a complete lifestyle overhaul. It wasn't easy. Between early morning workouts, prepping meals after work, and juggling the pressure of a busy transport office, it took serious mental strength. The start is great. You're motivated, full of energy, and people are right behind you. But it gets tough when the thrill of starting wears off and the cravings creep in. One of the biggest things I've learnt is that your mind is your greatest tool. You can use it to tell yourself you CAN do things, even when it's hard - or you can talk yourself out of trying. Beyond just smashing his own goals, Dan's now helping others do the same. Two of our driving team are following training plans Dan's created in his spare time, and Dan is right there with them, checking in, keeping them motivated, and helping them reach their goals too. I'll never put anyone through something I haven't already done myself. I'll be there to guide people every step of the way. Through every question, every change, every win. Dan's been part of the Browns team for five years and has always been a steady hand in traffic. But this year, he's shown a different side, one that's inspiring others to look after their own health too. My advice? Invest in yourself. Your health is your most valuable asset. You're never alone in trying to better yourself - people want to help. And he's not done yet. My next goal is to build muscle mass and cut down again to get photoshoot ready "“ in even better shape next time! Dan, you've smashed it. Thanks for reminding us all that even when life's full-on, there's always time to look after yourself, and maybe even give someone else a leg up along the way!

Celebrating Success at Palletline Beyond '25! missing alt!
Company

Celebrating Success at Palletline Beyond '25

We were delighted to recently attend Palletline Beyond 2025 , the network's annual awards evening, hosted at the stunning Celtic Manor Resort in Newport. The event was a fantastic opportunity for our team to get together with fellow Palletline depots and network friends, catching up and celebrating what we've all achieved together over the past year. The venue was the perfect setting for what turned out to be a night filled with great company, good conversation, and plenty of laughter. It was great to see so many familiar faces, share stories, and reflect on the hard work that keeps Palletline at the forefront of pallet distribution across the UK. Guests were treated to a three-course dinner, followed by fantastic evening entertainment that really kept the atmosphere buzzing. The brilliant Patrick Kielty took the stage as both presenter and comedian for the night, bringing with him, his trademark humour and energy. A big congratulations goes out from all of us at Browns to the award winners on the night! From the atmosphere in the room to the fantastic hospitality, it was a great chance for some of the team to let off steam and enjoy a well-earned break from the busy world of pallet transport. We'd like to say a huge thank you to Palletline for putting on such an enjoyable and well-organised event. We're proud to be part of this brilliant network and look forward to another successful year working alongside our fellow members.

Browns Pass Annual Network H&S Audit with Flying Colours! missing alt!
Company

Browns Pass Annual Network H&S Audit with Flying Colours

We're proud to announce that we've achieved a perfect 100% score in this year's Palletline Health and Safety Audit, a fantastic result that reflects the hard work our team puts into protecting our people, customers, and palletised freight every single day. Every haulage business operating within the Palletline network is required to pass a detailed annual audit. It's a mandatory process that keeps standards high across membership, checking everything from warehouse procedures and vehicle checks to employee training and safety systems. The audit is carried out to ensure each member meets and maintains strict safety expectations. From forklift checks to manual handling, racking layouts to reporting processes, it's all under the microscope. With pallets constantly moving through hubs, depots, and delivery points, even small oversights can lead to big problems. As the British Safety Council noted in a recent article on Palletline's safety approach , the network is serious about reducing risks and Browns is proud to play our part. Passing with a full 100% score means that: Our warehouse and transport teams are consistently following best practices Our training and systems are robust and working exactly as they should We're contributing to a safer, smarter network for everyone Phill Smith, Driver Training Manager said: As proud members of Palletline, we know safety is a daily focus. Achieving full marks reflects the high standards we set ourselves and the hard work everyone at Browns puts into maintaining a healthy, safe, and compliant environment for our team, visitors, customers and members of the public on the roads and at delivery locations.

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