UK firms say honesty, quality and responsiveness are the top qualities they look for in logistics partners according to a survey commissioned by leading logistics service provider Bibby Distribution*.
Despite current economic conditions, cost-effectiveness was ranked as the sixth most important quality, showing that companies are less concerned with keeping costs down and more interested in knowing their transport and distribution is in a 'safe pair of hands' that will not let them down.
Other characteristics that were deemed important included flexibility and an understanding of customers' needs, while innovation and creativity were ranked the least important attributes.
Iain Speak, CEO of Bibby Distribution, comments: "Particularly in times of economic hardship, it is important for businesses to know that each link in the supply chain is being taken care of by people who understand their requirements and can work with them to get the job done.
"Although many companies are being squeezed on margins, it's encouraging to see that cost has not overtaken old-fashioned customer service as the main priority, and that businesses are looking towards long-term success over short-term savings in choosing a logistics partner."
Bibby Distribution has used the findings of the recent survey to align its practices with the demands the modern marketplace puts on logistics partners. The resulting changes to business have been underlined by the creation of a new strap-line, 'logistics without limits', which communicates Bibby Distribution's renewed commitment to going the extra mile for its clients.
Iain Speak adds: "Bibby Distribution has long prided itself for developing relationships with clients, so they have the confidence that we are working as an extended member of their team to deliver the best possible warehousing and transport solutions. As part of our commitment to clients, we constantly review our performance and procedures to ensure we remain at the top of our game."
The company has also re-launched its website, www.bibbydist.co.uk, to reflect the wide range of services it now offers.
For more information please contact Bibby Distribution on Tel: 0151 708 8000, email: info@bibbydist.co.uk or visit: www.bibbydist.co.uk