Pall-Ex starts up logistics services

To support a new joint contract with Sims World-Wide, Pall-Ex has launched a Logistics arm. The company is also negotiating other logistics contracts.

Pall-Ex has launched Pall-Ex Logistics after securing a joint contract with member Sims World-Wide Logistics to provide logistics services to welding consumables company SAF Oerlikon UK. Pall-Ex says it is currently negotiating several other logistics contracts. To support the operation Pall-Ex has acquired a 2,800 sq m warehouse facility at Bardon Industrial Park in Leicestershire, close to its central hub. The warehouse will be a dedicated pallet storage facility, with 4,515 pallet spaces, and has the option to expand in the future. SAF’s decision to award Pall-Ex and Sims World-Wide the contract follows its decision to outsource its logistics and transport operation to concentrate on its core business. Welding consumables and equipment from France, Italy, Romania and other European locations are delivered in containers directly to the warehouse where they will be stored and then order-picked for dispatch throughout the UK by Sims World-Wide. Pall-Ex will also provide inventory management. Pall-Ex MD Hilary Devey says: “This agreement is the logical next step for Pall-Ex. It will complement our core business by adding volume to our network and at the same time allow us to diversify further into the logistics market.” Dr John Garland, MD of SAF Oerlikon UK, adds: “The smooth running of the Pall-Ex central hub was enough to convince us that it is more than capable of managing our operation. We expect to see significant competitive advantages arising from this service as we become more able to offer our customers a better, more flexible and frequent delivery service.” The network is expected to extend the range of services it offers this year with the launch of Pall-Ex Hazardous, a dedicated hazardous goods delivery service.