The winners of the 2024 Motor Transport Awards were announced on 4 September at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.

Safety in Operation Award

Partnered by TVS Interfleet

WINNER: Jet Plant Hire

TVS Interfleet commercial director Phil Ashton hands over the trophy to Jet Plant Hire MD Sean Witheford and business improvement director Tina Greenhill

Jet Plant Hire is committed to delivering the highest standards of health and safety across its fleet of planing machines and ancillary equipment, which is deployed on projects across the UK. It has built a culture of safety best practice and continuous learning that is evident across every facet of the organisation. Jet Plant is certified to BSI ISO 45001 with ISO 14001 and 9001, and is a seven-times consecutive RoSPA Gold Medal Award winner for both Fleet Safety and Health & Safety. This safety culture is demonstrated and proven through a number of key initiatives, metrics and processes, spanning leadership, training and certification, measurement, employee engagement and risk assessment. The company understands that formal training alone is insufficient to deliver continuous improvement in health and safety standards. All employees are required to access Jet Plant’s Digital Learning Management System to ensure they remain fully compliant with training. Volvo driver training is also made available to help drivers understand their vehicle’s safety features. SMART objectives are set in relation to numerous health and safety areas. All 360-degree cameras and telematics are reviewed immediately after incidents and random checks are carried out on vehicles returning to the yard, to ensure no incident goes unreported. In the past three years, there have been no work-related fatalities or injuries at Jet Plant Hire. Although incident rates did increase from 2022 to 2023, the business completed more shifts, resulting in an additional 125,040 miles. Total road miles in 2023 were over 2.3 million. Our judges said: “This submission demonstrated a high level of management commitment to the safety of staff and others impacted by the business operation. “There is an obvious commitment to long-term safety as demonstrated by the numerous awards and improvement systems in place. A very good entry showing improvement over time. “Like most good operations, it starts at the beginning on induction and is thoroughly supported by those leading the operation.”

Business Excellence Award

Partnered by Hireco

WINNER: DFDS Logistics

Hireco sales director Tim Gibson presents the trophy to DFDS Logistics freight services supervisor Emily Norris

DFDS is an international shipping and logistics company, employing more than 4,200 colleagues across the UK and Ireland. In 2018, a five-year business plan, WIN23, was established with ambitious growth targets to double annual revenue and profit across the group. During this period, DFDS Logistics successfully enlarged its network while exceeding financial targets. In 2023, DFDS expanded its network through one strategic and four bolt-on acquisitions, including McBurney Transport Group, which increased both product scope and geographic coverage. DFDS also decided to centralise its compliance, customer success and business projects teams, increasing collaboration between departments and removing siloed working while reducing fleet costs and environmental impact. This process enabled the business to identify areas for improvement and ensure it could be agile in response to changing and volatile market conditions, all with a commitment to operational excellence and overarching business growth. Overall, the strategic steps taken in 2023 enabled DFDS to expand its logistics network, geographic reach and service offering for customers, while enhancing compliance, service, and operations. Revenue grew from £48.4m in 2018 to £85.2m in 2023, while EBIT increased from £2.4m to £8.0m in the same period. DFDS’s latest 2030 strategy is focused on offering even more competitive solutions, scaling growth and operating to unrivalled standards of business excellence. A climate action plan has also been established, with several ambitious targets to be achieved by 2030. Our judges said: “DFDS’s journey towards ambitious growth and operational excellence is truly inspiring. “Its commitment to setting and achieving strategic targets is evident in the successful execution of the WIN23 business plan. “The strategic expansion of its network not only enhances service offerings but also strengthens its position in the market, enabling DFDS to better meet the evolving needs of customers.”

Best Use of Technology Award

Partnered by Hankook Tyre UK

WINNER: DPD UK

Hankook Tyre UK sales director Paul Emery presents the trophy to DPD UK CEO Elaine Kerr

DPD strives to put the best technology available to work in new ways to maximise customer choice and improve sustainability. This has led to the development of two technologies that are changing the way the company does business. DPD operates a fleet of over 10,000 delivery vans and has an annual turnover of £2bn. It has doubled in size since 2016 by becoming the carrier of choice for B2C retailers, delivering 360 million parcels a year. Putting innovation first has been key to DPD’s incredible record of success in the MT Awards in recent years. The company’s winning entry describes two technologies that it says are “crucial” to achieving its goal of being SBTi-accredited net zero carbon emissions by 2040. The first is autonomous delivery robots, which are being deployed at 10 sites across the country, offering environmentally friendly deliveries that reduce traffic on the roads. DPD worked with robotics and last-mile delivery specialist Cartken to develop the robots, which are stationed at a DPD depot and deliver to housing estates within a one-mile radius. Recipients are notified of a delivery in advance and once they confirm they are at home, the robot is dispatched. When it arrives, a PIN is used to open the secure compartment and access the parcel. The second technology is a rapidly expanding “out-ofhome” (OOH) network, which allows retailers to give their customers maximum choice regardless of their shopping platform. DPD’s OOH service comprises over 10,000 pickup shops and more than 500 lockers. DPD Pickup points are located on almost every high street in the country and within three miles of 98% of the British population. Our judges said: “DPD has shown great forward thinking and embraced technology that benefits the customer, staff and the company, while also lowering its CO2 emissions. “DPD’s introduction of new technology has encompassed the need to reduce its environmental impacts and to be on track to meet its commitment of being net zero by 2040.”

Clean Fleet Van of the Year

Partnered by Close Brothers Vehicle Hire

WINNER: Ford Pro E-Transit

Close Brothers Vehicle Hire sales director Richard Gosling presents the trophy to Ford of Britain and Ireland director commercial vehicles Mandy Dean

At Ford, it’s about more than just selling electric vehicles (EVs) to fleet operators. Ford Pro aims to make running commercial vehicles simple, and that includes the switch to electrification and the required charging solutions. Ford Pro offers a complete, end-to-end commercial fleet solution, including finding the right vehicles and providing a range of intelligent fleet management software, vehicle maintenance and financing services. The E-Switch Assist tool, for example, outlines which vehicle has the right specification for the job and what potential cost savings could look like, followed by trials to test that EV readiness in the real world. The E-Transit has been on sale for almost two years, and accounts for 81.5% of the 2-tonne electric commercial vehicle market in panel van, tipper and dropside guise. With a maximum payload of 1,484kg, a range of up to 249 miles and the option of 180kW DC fast charging to take the 89kWh battery from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes, the extendedrange version is a van capable of carrying its weight in a fleet operation, rather than being merely green window dressing. Available in three versions – van, chassis single cab and double cab – three lengths and three heights, the E-Transit is rated at between 3.5 and 4.25 tonnes GVW, taking advantage of the derogation allowing those with a car licence to drive heavier zero-emissions vehicles. The E-Transit is covered by a three-year/100,000 mile base warranty with an eightyear/ 100,000 mile warranty on the battery. Our judges said: “Through its Pro product, Ford offers a class-leading electric LCV and backs it up with a suite of services to enhance the vehicle. It encourages operators to embrace electrified technologies. A new style of vehicle sales to sell a new propulsion type. “Ford Pro has taken into consideration the operational needs as well as the infrastructure when running alternative fuel vehicles. Driver acceptance is good and specifications are in line with Ford internal combustion engine products. “Drivers seem to really like the build quality and cabin.”

Team of the Year

Partnered by Hiab

WINNER: Pall-Ex UK

Hiab vice-president, business development, sales and product Alexander Gelis presents the trophy to Pall-Ex Group UK commercial director Michelle Naylor and CEO Kevin Buchanan

Pall-Ex (UK) is one of the country’s leading palletised freight distribution networks, with more than 130 shareholder members. Dissatisfied with the lack of growth in a mature market, a commercial excellence team was introduced to overhaul the sales strategy within the business. Its main objectives were to accelerate growth, improve market share and increase member profitability. Since being established 28 years ago, pallet networks have achieved average annual growth of 8%. However, as the market matured and economic challenges arose, growth slowed to 5% between 2019 and 2023. With sales development devolved to the members, Pall-Ex research found that less than 20% of members had a dedicated sales and marketing person, few had access to sales training and growing business profitably in a tough market was a real challenge. Spearheaded by commercial director Michelle Naylor, the commercial excellence team came together to solve these issues and provide members with the tools, support and sales community they needed to thrive. Sales personnel were needed to support the members without a dedicated salesperson, and six regional business development managers joined the team. The results were impressive, easily surpassing the targets set. Our judges said: “Pall-Ex (UK)’s exceptional submission is a very worthy winner of this year’s award. Their commercial excellence team was cross-functional and integrated with their 130 members. “The objective of accelerating growth, increasing market share and increasing member profitability in a challenging market was audacious. “A commendable submission that displays an understanding of team dynamics, with each area clearly owned by an individual. Each KPI is meticulously detailed with clear steps on how it has been achieved. “I really appreciate the focus on the problem-solving capability of the business. “The statistics and insight delivered from different members of the team really add a great edge to the submission.”

Livery of the Year

Partnered by Tiger Trailers

WINNER: Depot Connect International

Tiger Trailers business development director Stephen Pollock presents the trophy to Depot Connect International president - European operations Antony Leighton and fleet manager - UK operations John Luty

Isotank Services and PM Rees have been established brands in the UK tank container transport and depot services market for more than 45 years. Boasso Global acquired Isotank in 2016 and PM Rees in 2021 and both continued to trade under their original names. Following the 2023 merger of Quala and Boasso Global, the challenge was set to create a new global brand for all subsidiaries across the UK, mainland Europe and North America – and Depot Connect International (DCI) was born. The UK fleet team took the initiative to come up with a livery for the worldwide vehicle fleet. In a comment clearly referring to the current trend to contract hire tractors and do the bare minimum to brand them, this winning entry said: “[The livery] needed to be modern, dynamic and eye catching, not just another white truck with stickers on.” The team only had the cab of the tractor unit and a skeletal trailer to showcase DCI, as the tank containers carry customers’ brands. The solution was a logo made up of three elements: a swoosh-like mark, a symbol of dynamic progress; a leaf, representing commitment to sustainability; and a water droplet, symbolising purity and efficiency. The interconnected letters represent the essence of connection of transport and depot services around the world. All the elements embody DCI’s “mission to connect, innovate and excel”. Our judges said: “This is an excellently written submission, with clear links to all required criteria. The fact that it was put together by the company's own team and not by an external marketeer clearly shines through in the passion for the task. “A radical departure from the old livery that creates a more modern and dynamic image for the company.” “A fantastic awards entry clearly explaining the reasons for updating the livery, the two colours chosen due to the merging brands, the honeycomb design that represented strength, productivity and focus on the environment. “A well thought-through submission detailing the journey to establishing a unified brand identity.”

Sustainable Transport Award

Partnered by Scania

WINNER: Darcica Logistics

Scania transformation director Mark Penn presents the trophy to Darcica Logistics MD and founder Anthony Tattersall

Darcica Logistics is a familyowned transport business in Oxfordshire. Set up in 2020 as a “force for good with a key focus on people and planet”, Darcica provides pallet and parcel deliveries and plasticfree fulfilment services. One of the first logistics firms in the UK to achieve Mission Zero accreditation in 2021, aligned with the UN’s 17 sustainable development goals, Darcica’s action plan includes: evaluating the environmental, social, governance and economic impacts of its operations; identifying improvements; implementing change; and measuring success. These practices are underpinned by Darcica’s core company values, which include environmental measures to reduce energy, water, waste and emissions as well as local measures to support staff and the local community and national campaigns that support a better future for everyone. On the people front, the company has a strong culture of equality, diversity and inclusion, creating 30 fulltime positions over the past three years for local people in Oxfordshire. With the cost-of-living crisis affecting many, the company provides each employee with a quarterly £150 food voucher, as well as a ‘free food’ area in the staff kitchen. When it comes to emissions, Darcica is investing in electric vehicles (now 40% of the fleet) and is looking at options to convert an 18-tonne curtainsider to electric. This led to a trial of the Volta Zero 16-tonne electric truck. In the warehouse the company has implemented a number of environmental measures and committed significant resources to reducing its environmental impact by going plastic-free in the fulfilment centre, using recycled cardboard packaging and racking. Our judges said: “Fantastic to see the great achievements this company has made in the four years since it launched. There is a clear sustainability plan, with strong core values that will enable the company to achieve its goals. “A very impressive, comprehensive plan for embedding sustainability at the heart of the company. “This is an outstanding achievement for a small company.”

Urban Operator of the Year

Partnered by Harris MAXUS

WINNER: DPD UK

Director of group franchises at Harris Group Mark Barrett presents the trophy to DPD COO Justin Pegg and UK director of marketing, communications and sustainability Tim Jones

DPD believes that its extensive urban delivery operation comes with the obligation to be responsible in how it operates on the roads. It is expanding its electric vehicle (EV) fleet for cleaner transport and is building more sustainable sites. The parcel delivery giant is deploying innovative technologies like automated robots to reduce road traffic and is expanding its parcel locker and pickup network to be within walking distance of more consumers. DPD operates a fleet of over 10,000 delivery vans and has doubled in size since 2016 by becoming the carrier of choice for B2C retailers, delivering 360 million parcels a year. In 2023, DPD set a target of net zero emissions by 2040, becoming the first global parcel delivery company to have its short- and longterm carbon emission reduction targets approved by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). A critical step in the net-zero journey is to reduce CO2 emissions by 43% by 2030 from a 2020 baseline. DPD has grown the number of EVs it operates from 700 in 2020 to 3,600 in 2023 and is on track to have 4,000 by the end of 2024. The plan is to have over 100 million EV parcel deliveries by the end of 2024. In 2021, DPD set itself the goal for final-mile deliveries to be 100% electric in 30 cities across the UK, an objective that was met in 2023. Its commitment to these cities requires close collaboration with local authorities and DPD’s head of sustainability Olly Craughan regularly meets with local governments. Our judges said: “Again DPD has created an exceptional submission. By demonstrating a companywide focus on sustainability, concern for the environment and improvements in operational standards, DPD shows that road transport is as friendly and as involved in our communities as any industry sector. “A clear winner once again in this category with a truly holistic approach. Great use of tech to reduce mileage and missed deliveries, as well as the implementation of autonomous robots. This is a great example to other urban operators of how you can really innovate and be radical while driving volume growth.”

Low Carbon Award

Partnered by Fraikin

WINNER: John Lewis Partnership

Fraikin customer and fleet solutions director John Cunningham presents the trophy to John Lewis Partnership general manager central transport Justin Laney

A previous winner of this award in 2017 and 2020, John Lewis Partnership is still setting the pace when it comes to cutting carbon emissions from its transport operations. With a fleet of 4,500 commercial vehicles of all sizes, John Lewis has a strong incentive to reduce emissions and has a strategy for all parts of the fleet. The Partnership also has a clear focus on reducing miles and improving efficiency as well as transitioning to low-carbon fuels, while at all times delivering a robust business case. John Lewis has committed to running all heavy trucks on biomethane by 2028, stopping the use of fossil fuels by 2030 – with all vans and light trucks being electric vehicles – and running any remaining niches on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). The Partnership has made improvements in the efficiency of its fleet, using doubledeck trailers where possible, and focusing on load fill and routeing and scheduling to minimise miles run. At St Katherine Docks in London, John Lewis already has a fully electric fleet of seven e-Vivaro vans. In 2023 they covered 74,000 miles on 4,839 routes delivering 39,000 orders, resulting in a saving of £13,000 on diesel costs and a reduction of 35.4 tonnes of CO2 emissions. The site is using smart charging that puts the right amount of energy into each vehicle to complete its next route. John Lewis has 421 Scania gas trucks – over 70% of the heavy truck fleet. Biomethane displaced 15 million litres of diesel and avoided 39,967 tonnes of CO2 emissions last year, and 500-mile range 6x2 CNG tractors are now being deployed. The retailer has also developed more aerodynamic truck and trailer designs in collaboration with Cambridge University. These improve fuel efficiency and reduce cost and CO2 emissions by 7% at steady speed. Our judges said: “I liked the three-way strategy, and on each area there were certain points that showed progress. “Significant further progress made across all vehicle types and infrastructure roll-out. “Overall, the scientific approach gives a truly sustainable approach to decarbonisation.”

Operational Excellence Award

Partnered by Palletforce

WINNER: DFDS Logistics

Palletforce CEO Mark Tapper presents the trophy to the DFDS Logistics team led by MD Matt O’Dell

DFDS is an international shipping and logistics company, which employs 4,200 colleagues and operates 600 vehicles throughout the UK and Ireland. In 2018, a five-year business plan, WIN23, was established, with ambitious growth targets to double annual revenue and profit across the entire DFDS Group by the end of 2023. Committed to delivering on this growth plan while maintaining operational excellence, the DFDS operations team developed and implemented a new strategy in 2023 to centralise key business functions and improve operational efficiencies, while driving additional revenue and profit. One key function to be centralised was compliance audits. Prior to 2023, site managers were responsible for the completion of annual audits, where in recent years UK sites have achieved an average audit score of 85%. A dedicated team of eight people now completes audits across all 36 DFDS sites. This has not only enabled each site manager to focus on operational delivery, but has also resulted in six-monthly audits being completed at all sites, thoroughly reviewing prohibitions, vehicle MoTs and inspections, tachographs and vehicle incidents. The average audit score has increased from from 85% to 92%, with the highest being 97%, and DFDS is proud to have maintained its green Traffic OCRS across all sites. The business projects team was also centralised to improve operational efficiencies, while helping to meet wider business goals such as reduced fleet costs and carbon footprint. The number of planning control towers was reduced from seven to three, enabling any silos to be removed to ensure effective collaboration between team members. This was underpinned by a bespoke in-house transport management system. Our judges said: “A very good submission and I like the way DFDS has centralised the compliance team, increasing audits from yearly to six monthly. “DFDS has produced a well-presented and concise submission. There are a number of positive takeaways including a great compliance record.”

Home Delivery Operator of the Year

Partnered by Parksafe Group

WINNER: GXO & B&Q

Parksafe Group sales and marketing director Liam Barber presents the trophy to Rob Owst, B&Q head of home delivery, accompanied by the winning team from GXO Logistics

This winning entry described a clear vision to “empower our team to be better tomorrow than today in everything they do”. Over the past nine years GXO has driven improvements in customer service, safety, store relationships, financial results and sustainability, while securing investment to redesign and replace the B&Q-dedicated fleet. The relationship between B&Q and GXO began in 2015, when the retailer appointed the 3PL to manage its retail transport, serving national and regional DCs in the UK and Ireland. The operation expanded to include two-person and bulk store-to-home final-mile deliveries in 2021, operating from over 100 B&Q stores across the UK. Today, GXO provides a seven-day dedicated twoperson and bulk homedelivery service from over 50 B&Q digital hubs direct to customers, with a fleet of more than 110 rigid and 50 crane-equipped vehicles and 220 crews. With B&Q’s support, GXO implemented several safety features on new vehicles coming onto the fleet to protect vulnerable road users. It has since been awarded ROSPA Silver for safety across the operation. The entire fleet is now Euro-6, reducing emissions compared with the previous vehicles, and by realigning starting locations to reduce stem mileage and improve loading times, B&Q saw a 36% reduction in carbon emissions during 2023. Results from the collaboration are impressive, including a 76% reduction in lost-time injuries, a Net Promoter Score of 75, average on-time deliveries of over 98% and beating the budget whilst delivering 26% greater volume than planned. Our judges said: “An excellent submission that clearly demonstrates all the key areas for a successful collaboration between customer and supplier. Consistently high customer service levels in a sustainable two-person home-delivery operation. “An impressive set of results in terms of safety, performance, customer satisfaction and cost savings. “Strong business performance matched by service excellence.”

Innovation Award

Partnered by Optimize

WINNER: Speedy Hire

Optimize brand ambassador Rachel Riley presents the trophy to Speedy Hire fleet director Aaron Powell

Speedy Hire has launched a potentially life-saving initiative, which will see more than 300 of its vans carrying portable defibrillators to boost the chance of survival for people suffering cardiac arrests. When the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops pumping blood around the body, it is known as sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Victims can die within minutes if they don’t receive treatment. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are used to save people who have had an SCA, which happens to around 30,000 people in the UK each year. NHS records show that only around one in five of them survive. Those odds improve dramatically if emergency treatment is provided as soon as possible. Almost half will be successfully resuscitated when defibrillation is given within the first four minutes, so defibrillators in public places and at work can save lives. This is a very important cause for Speedy Hire, which has team members who have been affected by heart issues in the past. However, it is committed to supporting not only its employees but also the communities in which it operates to help make a positive impact, particularly in those areas without easy access to a defibrillator. Speedy Hire started on the journey of equipping its engineers with AEDs by fitting them in 18 new vehicles. The kit is now being rolled out to the remaining 320 vehicles in its engineering fleet across the country, including its electric fleet. The vehicles are logged on the GoodSam app, which integrates with the ambulance service’s dispatch systems. This means that when an emergency call is received for a cardiac arrest, an ambulance service will be able to locate the nearest AED-equipped van. The initiative follows on from Speedy Hire installing defibrillators across its 150-strong depot network. Our judges said: “Great idea and if it saves one life it is worth it. “A fantastic, thoughtful scheme. Such innovative thinking and demonstrating total respect for the lives of others – well done. “A truly simple yet amazing idea. A credit to Speedy Hire.”

Fleet Truck of the Year

Partnered by Texaco Lubricants

WINNER: Volvo FH

Texaco Lubricants principal, OEM sales Europe Eddy Devriese presents the trophy to Volvo head of media Martin Tomlinson

The “hugely respected” Volvo FH’s win follows on from the FM’s success last year, but this is the flagship Volvo’s first success in the Fleet Truck category since 2017. Ever since its launch in 1993, the FH has been continually evolving and improving, and the batterypowered FH Electric was the first electric truck to be named International Truck of the Year in 2024. The latest Euro-6 versions are the most fuel efficient ever, with I-Save combining the D13 engine, I-Shift gearbox and optimised software to deliver Volvo’s most efficient driveline. The Step E engine delivers 18% better fuel economy than its 2018 equivalent. The FH Aero 460 I-Save boasts a range of features to improve driver visibility of vulnerable road users and comply with GSR2 safety regulations, while reduced drag shaves another 4% off fuel consumption. A pioneer of alternative fuels, Volvo is partnering with gas refuelling suppliers and electric recharging providers to develop the infrastructure required to put its low and zero emissions vehicles into real-world operation. The Euro-6 FH can run on 100% HVO, gas engines are available up to 500hp and the battery electric tractor fitted with three motors can produce 690kW (666hp). The FH comes in a range of cab types from low sleeper to the top-of-the-range Globetrotter XXL, while the interiors offer everything today’s drivers could need, including a digital instrument display; a large side display with touch screen; a navigation and infotainment system; steering wheel controls; and the choice of I-Shift gear selector lever or push button. The Volvo FH is hugely respected by all the judges who operate them, in terms of reliability, fuel economy and dealer backup. They praised the Turbo Compound engine’s “class-leading” fuel economy, the high level of driver acceptability and the FH’s attractive appearance. The payload provided by the lightweight pusher axle was applauded, as was the fact that gas and electric versions of the FH are available. The “post-warranty goodwill” provided by Volvo dealers was also appreciated.

Customer Care Award

Partnered by Pall-Ex Group

WINNER: DPD UK

Pall-Ex Group CEO Kevin Buchanan presents the trophy to DPD UK CEO Elaine Kerr

DPD puts the consumer’s needs first by making delivery work how they need it to. It is always listening to customers, and their customers the consumers, to understand what delights them – and then delivering on it. DPD operates a fleet of more than 10,000 delivery vans and has doubled in size since 2016 by becoming the carrier of choice for B2C retailers. Its team of over 22,000 delivers 360 million parcels a year on behalf of 22,680 customers, including many leading brands. An integral part of retaining customers – the businesses for which DPD ships – is ensuring that their customers are satisfied with their delivery experience. Daily surveys of endconsumers are carried out to benchmark DPD’s performance, which has resulted in a world-class Net Promoter Score of 76 from over 1.4 million consumers who shared their feedback. This consumer satisfaction is reflected in the retention of DPD’s long-term customers: of its top 200 customers, 74% have been shipping with DPD for five years or more. A recent annual survey with DPD’s top 250 customers concluded: “When compared to competitors, our top 250 shippers state that DPD stands out from the crowd with its overall service, great account managers, provision of regular updates and use of advanced technology.” DPD has invested heavily in technology to maintain its customer service edge and its app includes innovations such as the ‘more time needed’ feature, which allows recipients with mobility issues more time to get to the front door. DPD has also invested in specialised sites that hold delicate medical deliveries in specific temperature ranges, to maintain quality. Our judges said: “Fantastic entry, loved the benchmarking and customer feedback surveys, and good customer retention. “Outstanding use of evidence with KPIs throughout demonstrating the data-analytical approach to monitoring and managing customer care. “There is evidence that the approach is driven from the top down and there is a customer care ethos throughout the entire business.”

Haulier of the Year

Partnered by MAN Truck and Bus UK

WINNER: Campeys of Selby

MAN Truck and Bus UK press and PR manager Simon Wood presents the trophy to Campeys of Selby commercial and operations director Harry Campey

With an unwavering commitment to customer service, Campeys of Selby is an outstanding success story, growing from two vehicles in 2007 to 130 trucks today. Led by Paul Campey and his son Harry, the business undertook a strategy review after the Covid-19 pandemic. This saw it focus on efficiency, creating value for customers and ensuring it had the agility to respond to market challenges. Campeys is also targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. The company posted record revenues of £20m in 2023, returning £2m of gross profit while delivering service excellence, cost reduction and sustainable transport to a growing customer base. It replaced rigid collection and delivery vehicles with urban trailers and invested in longer double-deck trailers, removing the equivalent of three full trucks daily. A Palletforce member, Campeys routed smaller consignments through the pallet network, helping secure more national customers. Its Palletforce volumes have increased from 98 pallets a week in 2022 to 1,348 last year, making it one of the network’s top inputters. In 2021, it took delivery of its first bioCNG trucks and in February 2023 it became the first UK haulier to acquire a 19-tonne battery-electric DAF LF. Non-fossil fuel vehicles now account for over 10% of the fleet. Campeys’ drivers can access a network of Transport Association member sites with secure parking, showers, toilets and kitchen facilities. The haulier has held FORS Silver accreditation for seven years, and is aiming to achieve DVSA Earned Recognition, ISO9001, ISO14001 and ISO45001 in 2024. Our judges said: “A commendable period of growth in the last 15 years against the well-documented challenges of the industry. Campeys is a forwardlooking haulier that sees the challenges as opportunities. “Its progress on decarbonisation of the fleet is commendable and of scale in relation to its overall fleet, which shows its commitment to invest for the long term. “This is a family business that is displaying all of those values, has a focus on the drivers and uses the latest in-cab technology.”

Partnership Award

Partnered by Pallet Track

WINNER: Veolia, Dennis Eagle & Autotech Training

Pallet Track CEO Stuart Godman presents the trophies to Veolia UKI fleet director Gary Clark, Dennis Eagle UK mobile technical trainer Keith Thomson and Autotech Training head of operations Alistair McCrindle

Veolia’s vision is to expand its skill set from internal combustion engine maintenance to battery electric technology, ensuring it continues to build in-house capability fit for the future. The company’s Westminster contract has the largest battery electric vehicle (BEV) fleet in the UK waste and resources sector. A strategic partnership was formed with vehicle manufacturer Dennis Eagle and learning provider Autotech Training to create an industryfirst training programme to enhance existing training provision and so develop new skills, emerging technologies and ecological transformation. The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Level 3 award in Electric/hybrid vehicle system repair and replacement course was identified as the training foundation for this development. Partnering with Dennis Eagle, fleet supplier to Veolia for over 30 years, this long-standing relationship formed the basis of the joint approach to vehicle technician development. Autotech Training was selected to deliver the programme, impressing with its collaborative, partnership mindset and ability to bring insight and agility to the relationship. Vehicle technicians gain the knowledge and skills required to work on heavy electric and hybrid vehicles, ensuring every technician is safeguarded against the dangers of working on or around electric vehicles. More than 40 Veolia and Dennis Eagle vehicle technicians have been trained to date, with over 180 scheduled for 2024. The partnership is poised not only to meet the current requirements but also to adapt and evolve as new technologies emerge. Our judges said: “In the current climate, with a shortage of technicians and a focus on new technology, this initiative by Veolia to train its workforce was forward thinking. Veolia has not only embraced a partnership with one party but two. “This not only benefits the company and its workforce in the 'now' but focuses on evolving training to include the development of future technology and continuous training for employees. “An excellent example of true partnerships at work.”

Training Award

Partnered by Lawrence David

WINNER: GXO

Lawrence David commercial director Ben McEvoy presents the trophy to GXO Logistics UK EHS director Lisa McGrevy and UK operational training manager Joanne Mawditt

The winning submission from GXO was described as a “great entry” by one of our judges who added “the sheer scale of this undertaking has to be recognised”. GXO aims to provide learning and development initiatives that will drive outstanding individual and team performance, ensuring colleagues have the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviours to effectively deliver, with the appropriate support and guidance. Through its talent and learning function, GXO University, it has developed a culture of optimal performance throughout the organisation. The entry detailed the success of three initiatives: Driver Academy, Female Development Programme and Road to Zero safety programme. The Driver Academy takes drivers from a Cat B car licence to a Cat C+E in around 12 weeks. Once qualified, the driver enrols on a further three-month driver training programme, helping to build their skills with additional instruction and practice. The Female Development Programme (FDP) was created to proactively support women into management and leadership roles, after conversations with female colleagues highlighted the challenges they face. Creating a practical solution to give these women the opportunity to learn new skills, observe role models and build support networks, GXO was able to launch this CILT-accredited programme. With an influx of employees joining the business following a significant acquisition in 2022, GXO wanted to ensure its safety culture programme – Road to Zero – was adopted as they came into the business. This programme, which aims to embed positive safety behaviours to help achieve the goal of zero incidents, went through a major refresh, and reinforced the message that everyone should have the same safety mindset both at work and at home. Our judges said: “The safety culture initiative is forwardthinking and the Female Development Programme is a demonstration of leadership in the industry that is much needed. “An exemplary programme of development and skills provision.”

New Talent Development Award

Partnered by EV Cargo

WINNER: DFDS Logistics

EV Cargo CEO Andy Humpherson presents the trophy to DFDS Logistics MD Matt O’Dell, talent acquisition consultant Lucy Brown and talent acquisition co-ordinator Jan Lainchbury

DFDS is an international shipping and logistics company, employing over 4,200 colleagues across the UK and Ireland. To achieve the group’s ambitious five-year WIN23 business plan by the close of 2023, strengthening the employer brand was critical to grow the talent pipeline and recruit, develop and retain the best employees who could support and deliver DFDS’s objectives. In its winning entry, the company showed how it had successfully attracted the best talent in the right roles, implemented clear talent management and succession planning programmes, and provided training and development opportunities. Recognising that not enough attention had been paid to talent acquisition and development, the quality of hiring processes or the level of candidate experience, DFDS established two centres of excellence in 2021. One is dedicated to talent acquisition and early careers and the other to learning and development. Prior to the implementation of its own talent acquisition team, DFDS had relied on external recruitment support, which was expensive and inconsistent. Since taking this task in-house, an improved candidate experience and talent pool has been created, accurately matching the best and more diverse candidates to the right roles. The team collaborates with schools and universities and participates in groups such as the Apprenticeship Diversity Network. In 2022 DFDS joined Generation Logistics as a gold sponsor to encourage more young people to consider a career in logistics and is also very proud of its commitment to military veterans, having signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2021 and received the silver recognition award in 2023. Our judges said: “Talent acquisition is embedded into the business, supported by an innovative platform. “DFDS’s reduction in recruitment costs along with its internal development strategy is impressive. Its investment into two centres of excellence is a clear indication of its passion to grow talent and have the right people in the right place. A really good, clear and informative entry.”

Service to Industry Award

Partnered by Aquarius IT

WINNER: Christopher Hanson-Abbott, Brigade Electronics

Aquarius IT commercial director Guy Reynolds presents the trophy to Christopher Hanson-Abbott, chairman of Brigade Electronics

Christopher Hanson-Abbott OBE formed Brigade Electronics in 1976, after hearing for the first time a reversing alarm on the streets of Tokyo. He saw its life-saving potential and worked tirelessly to bring the device to the UK, launching his first reversing alarm at the 1976 CV Show. Not a single unit was sold. Undeterred he pressed on with what he believed was a game-changing piece of safety equipment. He says: “When I started there was absolutely nothing to help the driver see behind him; there was nothing to warn the pedestrian that the driver was about to perform the most dangerous manoeuvre in motoring, which was reversing – and he was driving blind.” He challenged the mindset of potential customers and lobbied the government tirelessly to change the C&U regulations. It took a further two years before Brigade’s first reversing alarm sale and many more years for health and safety culture to be fully addressed. Since then, Brigade has gone on to develop and bring to market innovations such as ultrasonic obstacle detection, camera and radar detection systems and quiet vehicle sounders to alert pedestrians to approaching electric vehicles. The arrival of London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS) has pushed Brigade to develop a portfolio of products to meet the requirements. Looking ahead, Brigade is embracing the artificial intelligence revolution and developing a range of products that will ensure its future for years to come. Hanson-Abbott’s passion for protecting vulnerable road users remains at the core of Brigade’s ethos, with his mantra ‘we are in the business of saving lives’. Awarded an OBE for his services to vehicle road safety in 2014, he recently celebrated his 90th birthday and remains a driving force behind Brigade. Our judges, all previous winners of this Award, said: “He has certainly saved lives, though the numbers are difficult to quantify. He is a true innovator and after almost 50 years of working on vehicle safety, Brigade is still delivering new technology.”