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Company

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 our colleagues, Jade and Jackson, completed their apprenticeships, and both have plenty to be proud of! Jade – Customer Service Specialist Apprenticeship Jade joined Browns in 2017 and works as a Customer Support Supervisor. She has successfully completed her Level 3 Customer Service Specialist apprenticeship, achieving distinctions across all key areas. This is a fantastic achievement and a real reflection of Jade’s hard work, focus, and desire to keep improving. Over the past few years, Jade has developed into a confident leader within our customer support team, consistently setting high standards for herself and others. Alongside this, Jade is well known for her sense of humour and the laughter she brings to the office, helping to create a positive and supportive atmosphere for the whole team. We’re incredibly proud of what Jade has achieved and the positive example she continues to set. Jackson – Team Leader Apprenticeship Jackson has been with Browns since 2022 and works in our warehouse as a Stock Administrator. He recently completed his Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship, adding valuable leadership skills to his operational experience. Since joining the business, Jackson has grown significantly in his role. His understanding of how the warehouse fits into the wider operation has developed alongside his day-to-day responsibilities, and he’s become a trusted and supportive presence within the team. We’re proud of Jackson’s progress and the dedication he shows to both the business and his teammates. Supporting Positive Development Here at Browns Distribution, we are committed to supporting the positive development of our people throughout their career. Actively encouraging learning, training and progressions through providing opportunities helping to build confidence, develop new skills and reach an individual’s full potential. We understand that when our people develop, so does our business, benefiting from teams with greater capabilities and shared success. A spirit of ambition is something we value highly here at Browns, when team members show this ambition to learn, grow and take on new challenges, they are supported and encouraged to do so. This approach helps to create the culture we admire here at Browns, where people feel motivated to invest in themselves knowing their efforts will be backed up by the business. Further Success Jade and Jackson are not just 2 isolated examples, as we have other success stories and will continue to have these successes. We remain committed to supporting future apprenticeships and development pathways to ensure our people have the tools and encouragement needed to build long-term careers here at Browns. Kerry Wood, Account Manager said: Jade completed her apprenticeship with commitment, strong work ethic and a genuine willingness to learn. She worked hard to develop her skills and consistently applied her learning in the workplace, showing growing confidence and capability. Her efforts and high standards were recognised through achieving distinctions in all areas of her apprenticeship, which is a credit to her determination and dedication. Well done, Jade! Luke Cobden, Warehouse Manager said: Since completing his Apprenticeship Team Leader course, I have seen a significant and positive change in Jackson’s performance. His operational awareness has improved greatly, and he now demonstrates a much stronger understanding of day-to-day processes and responsibilities. Jackson’s approach to dealing with customers has become more confident and professional, and he communicates clearly and effectively. Overall, he has developed into a more assured and capable team leader, showing a consistently professional approach when supporting and leading the team.

IndustryCompany

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

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. 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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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.

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