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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.

10 New Trailers Join Browns Fleet in 70th Anniversary Year! missing alt!
Company

10 New Trailers Join Browns Fleet in 70th Anniversary Year

We're excited to have taken delivery of 10 brand new SDC curtainsider trailers - the latest addition to our fleet during our landmark 70th anniversary year. Each trailer carries our refreshed geometric design, anniversary logo, and the line "Moving Distribution Forward Since 1955". It's a simple message that captures what Browns Distribution is all about - helping to keep businesses moving through reliable, responsive palletised freight services. These new trailers have already hit the road, delivering pallets across Staffordshire and right across the UK. The arrival of these 10 trailers marks the latest stage in our ongoing fleet investment programme. Since 2023, we've introduced almost 40 new trailers in total, gradually retiring older models and replacing them with modern, more efficient equipment. A younger fleet brings a number of advantages. It helps us improve fuel efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and maintain the high standards of reliability our customers expect. It also supports our capacity to handle growing demand - with more customers than ever choosing Browns for fast, flexible pallet delivery. Moving Distribution Forward Since 1955 Browns Distribution has been moving goods and supporting UK businesses since 1955. From our beginnings as a local haulier in Staffordshire, we've grown into a trusted nationwide logistics partner. The arrival of our 70th anniversary trailers celebrates that journey - and reflects our ongoing investment in the fleet and service we provide. Whether delivering pallets across Staffordshire or throughout the UK, our fleet is the backbone of our business. And with these new trailers on the road, we're ready to keep goods moving for many more years to come. #Browns70

Celebrating 70 Years of Browns with our Colleagues and their Families! missing alt!
Company

Celebrating 70 Years of Browns with our Colleagues and their Families

On Sunday, we welcomed colleagues and their families to Distribution House for a very special event - our 70th Anniversary Family Fun Day. It was brilliant to come together and celebrate such a proud milestone in the history of Browns. From our early beginnings in 1955 to the business we are today, this anniversary is a real moment to reflect on how far we've come - and to thank the people who've made it possible. And what better way to celebrate than with a day full of fun, food and entertainment! Our yard looked very different from usual - transformed into the perfect party space with something for everyone to enjoy. There were bungee trampolines and a huge rock climbing wall, freshly made Neapolitan pizza and traditional ice cream, all set to the sound of live music throughout the day. We'd like to say a huge thank you to the fantastic team who worked so hard behind the scenes to organise the day and turn our busy yard into such a welcoming space. And of course, thank you to everyone who came along to make it so special. Here's to the next chapter in our story - and many more celebrations to come!

Browns Achieves BRCGS Storage & Distribution Accreditation for the Second Year Running! missing alt!
Company

Browns Achieves BRCGS Storage & Distribution Accreditation for the Second Year Running

We're proud to share that Browns Distribution has once again achieved an AA grade certification to the BRCGS Global Standard for Storage and Distribution. This marks our second consecutive year of accreditation, a great reflection of the high standards our team works hard to deliver across our warehousing and pallet storage services. Why BRCGS Storage & Distribution Matters BRCGS is one of the world's most recognised benchmarks for safety, hygiene, product control, and quality processes across the supply chain. Earning an AA grade means we meet the highest level of compliance for the Storage and Distribution Standard. For our customers, this gives added confidence that their products are being handled, stored, and distributed under carefully controlled conditions. It also supports supply chain transparency and traceability - increasingly important across many industries. Continuous Improvement Across Our Services Our latest BRCGS audit praised the ongoing improvements we continue to make across our warehousing and logistics operations. These include: - Enhanced hygiene and product control procedures - Rigorous staff training programmes - Documented safety and quality systems - Regular audits and process reviews By maintaining these standards, we not only meet certification requirements but also help protect the reputation of the brands and products we store and distribute. Trusted Warehousing & Pallet Storage Solutions Whether you require short-term pallet storage, long-term warehousing, or value-added services such as pick and pack, Browns offers flexible solutions backed by proven quality. Holding consecutive AA BRCGS accreditation demonstrates that we don't stand still - we continue to invest in our people, processes, and facilities to give our customers the very best service. Looking for reliable warehousing and pallet storage? If you'd like to know more about how Browns' certified warehouse services can support your business, get in touch with our team today. We'll be happy to discuss your needs. Contact us now to discuss your warehousing and pallet storage requirements.

Easter Weekend Schedule! missing alt!
Company

Easter Weekend Schedule

With Easter just around the corner, we've put together our schedule so you can plan ahead. Avoid delays, service hiccups, and those awkward conversations by getting ahead of the rush. We all know supply chains can be unpredictable, and challenges have a habit of cropping up when you least expect them. If you're expecting a surge in freight volumes, need extra collections, or have changes to your usual freight types, please let us know. Wishing you a relaxing and enjoyable Easter weekend from all of us at Browns! Click here to view and download our full schedule and delivery times.

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