A Liverpool logistics specialist is on the road to bumper growth in 2023 as a result of its pallet network membership.
SSO Logistics Ltd, which has sites in Haydock and St Helens, has experienced a significant uplift in business since joining the Pallet-Track network in 2021.
Improving efficiency and reducing its carbon footprint were the main drivers behind the company’s decision to join Pallet-Track, but it has also created 16 new jobs as a result of additional work provided by the network.
Its membership has enabled SSO Logistics to win new business by standardising its nationwide corporate service and providing customers with sophisticated delivery tracking.
The firm’s international arm, SSO International Forwarding, has recently been awarded freeport status by the government due in part to the growth it has achieved with Pallet-Track.
It is the city’s first customs site operator – an area within a freeport where certain tax and customs rules are suspended to support and encourage international trading.
The company now plans to build a new 50,000 sq. ft warehouse next to its existing St Helens site and create an additional 20 jobs by the end of the year to accommodate the on-going growth.
Peter Draper, director at SSO Logistics, said: “We have a very busy year ahead us and we’re pleased to be starting 2023 in such a strong position.
“Our handling of palletised freight continues to increase year on year and we knew that joining Pallet-Track would give us the tools to maximise our success.
“It has been beneficial for our existing customers because they are ensured a standardised service and access to delivery tracking, but these features have enabled us to bring new customers on board.
“Having an up-to-date IT system improves the customer experience and has been instrumental in aiding our growth.
“While Brexit has impacted the international side of our business, and our fellow members, the freeport status gives us a USP that will benefit the Pallet-Track network, which will support with the final mile delivery of imported goods.
“It is also good news for businesses that are importing goods, helping to reduce duty in the manufacturing process, reducing administration and costs, and improving cash flow by enabling duty to be paid piecemeal.”
Caroline Green, chief executive of Pallet-Track, said: “We congratulate Peter and the team at SSO Logistics on their new freeport status and their continued success as a member of Pallet-Track.
“The firm’s continued growth is also great news for the local community, benefitting businesses that trade internationally and creating new jobs for local people.”
The Pallet-Track network is made up of over 90 independent logistics companies, who work collectively to collect and deliver palletised freight throughout the UK.
