Third party logistics provider PDS International founder hands over helm

After 15 years at the helm, John McClelland, the founder and Managing Director of PDS International, has handed responsibility for the firm to his son, David. As from the beginning of November, David McClelland takes over as Managing Director of this flourishing third party logistics provider.

David McClelland joined the Wigan based company in 2000 and has been Commercial Director for the past three years. His appointment to head the company is another milestone in PDS’s long term development plan and has been welcomed by both customers and suppliers.

Over the past year PDS has seen significant market growth and has recently taken on more staff and warehousing to cope with this expansion. The company now employs over 65 personnel and operates from three sites with warehousing capacity in excess of half a million square feet. They provide an extensive range of logistics and distribution services shipping to major high street retailers as well as offering a comprehensive expertise in e-fulfilment.

David McClelland’s career with the BBC, UCI Cinemas and local government prior to joining PDS brought a broader range of skills to the company and his appointment as Managing Director confirms that this is the right strategy for its continued growth.

"As a family owned firm, PDS feel we have a professionalism and willingness to try that bit harder that is not offered by larger organisations" he said. "John has done a magnificent job growing the firm from nothing but it is important that, as a second generation owner, I build on that to create a new period of confidence for the future."

John McClelland will remain at PDS as a consultant to ensure a smooth handover and will also assist in developing the business. He will be remaining as managing director of MDI, which is an associated business to PDS.

Global giant Conair has outsourced its UK logistics operation to PDS since 1995 and knows that David has the experience and determination needed to bring value to their business.

Ian Nuttall, the UK Managing Director of Conair, said: "PDS is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure things are done properly and on schedule. PDS always pay great attention to details and it’s typical of their meticulous planning to be thinking about the long-term future to ensure that everything continues to run like clockwork. We have already been working with David for a number of years and would like to congratulate him on his new appointment."

At the other end of the chain PDS’s contracted haulier, F Swain & Sons Ltd, is equally happy with the transition. Managing Director Mick Swain said: "We have worked with PDS for the past 15 years. This succession is not a step change to their business but part of a gradual and deliberate development. I am delighted that David is taking control, he has an extensive knowledge of the industry and we are looking forward to another 15 years of this productive relationship."

With the outsourced logistics market predicted to grow over the next five years, smaller more flexible companies like PDS are well positioned in this competitive marketplace and this new appointment guarantees that they can continue to provide a competitive, tailor made solution for all their clients.