ONE of Scotland's largest and most respected transport and distribution companies is to join the highly successful Palletforce network.
Dalkeith Transport and Storage will become a shareholder member of the award-winning network from March 1, 2010 in what is a momentous and positive step forward for the company.
Peter Wright, Managing Director of Dalkeith Transport and Storage, said: "Moving to the Palletforce network is a major development for our company and will open up exciting opportunities going forward."
Dalkeith Transport, which has been established for more than 60 years, has two depots Newtongrange, by Edinburgh, and Cumbernauld, and is ending a 10-year association with Palletways to join Palletforce.
Over the last year Palletforce has become a dominating force within the palletised distribution sector - winning a clutch of industry awards and undergoing major investment in a new £30million Distribution Hub, officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal.
"We believe Palletforce is driving innovation and quality within the industry and we are delighted to be joining forces with such a forward-thinking, service-orientated network," added Mr Wright.
"This move represents our commitment to ensuring we remain focused on quality and customer service within a setting that can deliver the best operational and distribution facilities available."
Dalkeith Transport presently operates a fleet of circa 47 carrying vehicles, with 100 Trailers hauling general freight throughout the UK.
A strong factor in moving to Palletforce was the network's unique position as a member-owned palletised distribution operation; as ultimately this ensures quality throughout the network as every 'member' company has a stake in its success.
Michael Conroy, CEO of Palletforce, welcomed the announcement saying: "Dalkeith Transport is a hugely respected transport company and we are looking forward to welcoming them as a valued Palletforce member.
"Our ethos is to 'work with the best' transport companies and Dalkeith is a perfect fit within our network - bringing quality and experience going back over many years."
Palletforce has seen a surge in interest from companies wishing to join the network since opening its new Hub and major investment in infrastructure.
Michael Conroy added: "Our new Distribution Hub, in Burton-upon-Trent is the largest of its kind in the UK and gives us facilities that are now the envy of the sector and allow our members' customers to enjoy the very best services available.
"We are also seeing gains in the European market and are well-placed to take advantage of the opportunities that are out there."