Browns lands £1m deal as bespoke TMS goes live

Originally published in Motor Transport page 4, September 2026.

Stoke operator expands contract logistics arm with dedicated truck fleet. 

Browns Distribution has developed a bespoke transport management system (TMS) alongside securing a contract logistics deal worth more than £1m a year.

The Stoke-on-Trent operator has launched Touchbase, a platform developed by its in-house software team and designed around the requirements of pallet distribution. Unlike an off-the-shelf TMS, Touchbase was built using Browns’ operational experience and was developed in response to customer feedback and changing requirements.

The system connects customers, drivers, warehouse teams and operational staff through a single digital platform, providing a live view of consignments throughout the pallet journey.

Customers can use a self-service portal for bookings, tracking, invoicing, reporting and account management, with processes including API integration, bulk imports and reusable booking presets designed to reduce administration.

The technology investment comes as Browns expands its contract logistics operation with a partnership with a Staffordshire manufacturer of commercial warewashing equipment.

The deal will see Browns operate a dedicated fleet of dual-liveried vehicles and drivers to handle palletised freight and specialist deliveries across the UK and Ireland.

Browns said it had developed a bespoke solution combining dedicated fleet operations, specialist handling and its pallet network capability.

The arrangement is intended to allow the manufacturer to manage different freight and delivery requirements through a single logistics provider, supported by dedicated account management and shared operational visibility.

The contract adds to Browns’ expanding contract logistics portfolio as customers seek managed transport solutions.