The Expect Board swapped their office attire for hiking boots in July and took on the iconic Yorkshire Three Peaks to raise vital funds for Overgate Hospice. Not only did four of our board members – Andy Taylor, Matthew Kilner, Bob Duffy and Steve Wood – complete the gruelling 24-mile trek, but we’ve also smashed our fundraising target of £5,000 raising over £5,800, including Gift Aid!

Why Overgate Hospice?

Overgate Hospice is our chosen charity for 2024.

Overgate Hospice is a beacon of care and support for those facing life-limiting illnesses and their families. Their dedication to providing comfort, advice, and essential resources is truly inspiring.  We were particularly drawn to their ambitious ‘Big Build Appeal’ project, a £12.75M initiative to expand and redevelop the hospice, ensuring even more people can benefit from their services.

The Challenge

The Yorkshire Three Peaks is not for the faint of heart. It’s a challenging 24-mile circuit, with a total ascent of 5,200 feet. Our team was made up of Andy Taylor, Operations Director, Matthew Kilner, Managing Director, Bob Duffy, Commercial Director, and Steve Wood, Non-Exec Director, and – arguably the most important member of the team – Herbie the dog. The team trained hard to prepare, fuelled by the knowledge that every step would help make a difference.

Bob said: “The hardest part was definitely the beginning… and the middle… then the end! It certainly wasn’t easy, but we couldn’t have asked for a better team or a better cause, it was also a great opportunity for the team to unplug. Big thanks to everyone who donated – the support kept us going even when the uphill battles felt never-ending. Overgate, here’s to you and the incredible work you do! And to anyone considering a donation, do it! Trust me, the feeling you get from helping is better than reaching any summit.”

We couldn’t have achieved this without the incredible generosity of our supporters. Your donations, large and small, kept us motivated throughout the challenge. As of 28^th July, we’d exceeded our target of £5,000, raising a grand total of £5831.25 including Gift Aid.

What’s Next?

Every penny raised will go directly to Overgate Hospice, helping them continue their vital work and bring their ‘Big Build Appeal’ closer to reality. We’re honoured to have played a part in this journey, and we look forward to supporting them in the future.

If you haven’t yet donated and would like to contribute, it’s not too late! Please visit our JustGiving page.

Thank you again for your support – we couldn’t have done it without you!

We are thrilled to announce that Expect Distribution has successfully retained its FORS accreditation for 2024 following our recent audit. Since 2021, Expect Distribution has been a proud holder of the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) Bronze accreditation. This accreditation is given to fleet operators following the FORS highest safety, efficiency, and environmental protection standards within the logistics industry.

As a business we take pride in the retention of this accreditation. Transport and logistics operations comes with a percentage of risk of incidents on the road, but we ensure as a business we do everything in our power to reduce this risk through rigorous driver training and safety measures. To be recognised for this by FORS is something that we value deeply.

What is the FORS Standard?

The FORS Standard ensures fleet operators adhere to best practices across Management, Driver, Vehicle, and Operations. Management includes policy updates, staff training, and effective complaint handling. Drivers undergo regular license checks, adhere to the Highway Code, receive training, and have monitored work hours. Vehicle must undergo comprehensive maintenance, insurance, and safety features like side-under-run protection. Operations must ensure efficient vehicle deployment, adherence to specified routes, and proper handling of specialist goods. This comprehensive approach promotes safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance in fleet operations which aligns with our approach.

We are committed to good practises

We are deeply committed to maintaining our core set of values. We have seven values that drive everything we aim to achieve. Honesty, integrity, accountability, profitability, team-work, excellence and adaptability. Ensuring our colleagues remain safe on the road through following the highest road safety standards fits into this. Our drivers work hard to ensure that our service is excellent every time, acting with integrity on the road and maintaining our high level, profitable service. Four years of FORS is a testament to this. We are thrilled for this opportunity to thank and celebrate their dedication to achieving FORS once again.

Andy Hague, Head of Transport comments on this latest year of FORS retention,

“Maintaining our FORS accreditation for a fourth consecutive year is something that always has been, and always will be important to us. We remain committed to delivering the very best logistics service whilst ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability responsibilities are upheld.”

To work with a FORS accredited logistics supplier, contact us today.

The e-FREIGHT 2030 Consortium is a new scheme collaborating with the UK Government to join in their aim to decarbonise the haulage industry with the zero-emission Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) and infrastructure demonstrator programme. The project brings together leading businesses and hauliers to work together, share knowledge and further the cause. Supported by government funding in collaboration with the Department of Transport, e-FREIGHT aims to lower the industry’s environmental footprint.

The Consortium’s initiative includes the introduction of 100 electric HGV 4×2 and 6×2 tractor units and the establishment of 32 new charging locations with megawatt charging capacity. With almost £50 million in government support and an estimated £500 million in expected private investment, the scheme hopes that by 2030 there will be a widescale switch to electric power. By 2035, the entire sector will have switched.

Recognising the challenges posed by economic realities, we are keen to highlight the necessity of collective will and commitment to balancing profitability with environmental responsibility.

Andy Taylor, Operations Director of Expect Distribution comments,

“The consortium provides a great platform to enable us to share knowledge, best practices, and learnings to ensure the success of the project, which we are fully leveraging to fulfil our sustainability ambitions. The opportunity was too compelling to pass up, allowing us to contribute to this cause while future-proofing our business.”

Expect joins the list of grant recipients of the zero-emission road freight battery electric truck demonstration. This project will be used to demonstrate the capabilities of battery-electric HGVs, allowing businesses to adopt the battery-electric truck on a wide scale by collecting data to inform future policy decisions and infrastructure choices.

Find out more here: eFREIGHT 2030

On the 18th July the Expect Directors will be donning their walking boots and tackling the Three Yorkshire Peaks!

Our chosen charity this year is Overgate Hospice and the Board are aiming to raise at least £5000 towards their Big Build Appeal fund. Overgate’s proposed new building will enable them to expand and redevelop the Hospice to provide much needed additional facilities.

Can you help support Andy Taylor, Matthew Kilner, Bob Duffy and Steve Wood in their fundraising efforts? The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a 24-mile (38.6km) round trip route, and includes 1585m (5200ft) of ascent, so just a little gentle walk to get out of the office for a day and raise some money.

If you are able to support this great cause please visit our Just Giving Page to make a donation.

We are proud to announce our partnership with Overgate Hospice as our chosen charity for 2024. Overgate Hospice, located in Calderdale, provides expert care, support, and advice for patients and their families living with life-limiting illnesses.

Living with a life-limiting illness can be challenging, affecting individuals and their loved ones in many ways. Overgate Hospice works closely with patients upon referral to provide tailored care and support, based on their individual needs. Their highly qualified team of doctors, nurses, and support staff ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care and assistance for managing symptoms. Additionally, Overgate Hospice offers a range of free services such as bereavement support, carer’s groups, and community hubs, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for those affected by life-limiting illnesses in the Calderdale area.

Having just launched the ‘Big Build Appeal‘ project, Overgate are seeking to raise £12.75 million to expand and redevelop their facilities to meet the growing demand for their services. This initiative has presented an opportunity for Expect to contribute to their fundraising efforts and raise awareness about their vital work.

The partnership between Expect and Overgate Hospice was internally announced at the beginning of the year, with regular updates and communications planned to keep our colleagues informed about fundraising activities and events. We will be leveraging our marketing budget to support fundraising initiatives and encourage colleague participation by covering application fees for events and providing match funding opportunities.

Furthermore, Expect Distribution and Overgate Hospice will collaborate on various fundraising events throughout the year, including The Overgate Colour Run, Garden Party, and The Annual Ball. We will also offer volunteering opportunities for all of our colleagues to support Overgate Hospice’s activities and initiatives.

Matthew Kilner, Managing Director at Expect Distribution said:

“We are thrilled to partner with Overgate Hospice as our chosen charity for 2024. Their commitment to providing compassionate care and support to individuals and families facing life-limiting illnesses is unwavering and with some of our own colleagues having needed their services and support over the years, we look forward to working closely with Overgate Hospice to help them reach their goals.”

Suzanne Benn, Business Partnership Manager at Overgate Hospice comments

“On behalf of all the team at Overgate Hospice, I would like to extend our deepest thanks to Expect Distribution for selecting us as their chosen charity. As we embark on this journey together, we are eagerly anticipating the impact we will create through our shared dedication, joint events, and collaborative campaigns. Here’s to a partnership filled with purpose, compassion, and generosity.”

Through fundraising efforts, volunteering initiatives, and collaborative events, we eagerly look forward to supporting Overgate Hospice in continuing its invaluable work.

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Russell as our new Head of HR. Amy brings over eight years of experience in the logistics industry to her role, having previously held senior HR positions at renowned companies such as GXO Logistics, XPO Logistics, and Walkers Transport.

Amy’s career journey in HR has been marked by significant achievements. Previously, Amy worked as a Senior Manager, Talent and Learning role at GXO Logistics, where she spearheaded talent development initiatives for over 130,000 employees across 27 countries. Her expertise in talent management, learning and development, and HR strategy aligns with Expect Distribution’s growth trajectory and commitment to becoming an employer of choice.

Amy’s journey to Expect was brought about by a reunion with former colleague Matthew Kilner, whom she worked alongside at Walkers Transport as part of the Senior Management Team.

“At Expect Distribution, I see an incredible opportunity to make a positive impact and help shape the company’s future,” said Amy Russell. “I’m excited to work alongside the talented team here to maintain our family values and develop with them while enhancing our infrastructure, systems, and overall HR package to support our continued growth. As a female senior leader in the business, I will be joining Expect in their vision to foster growth for all as part of our diversity and inclusion commitments.”

Amy’s responsibilities as Head of HR include crafting a strong people strategy, defining HR roadmaps, optimising recruitment processes, and implementing new HR technologies to streamline operations and enhance colleague experiences. Her strategic approach and track record of success make her an invaluable addition to Expect Distribution’s leadership team.

“I’m thrilled to join Expect Distribution and contribute to the company’s ongoing success,” Amy added. “The warm and supportive workplace culture, combined with the ambitious vision of the senior leadership team, creates an environment where I can thrive and make a real difference.”

Matthew Kilner comments, “I am delighted to be working with Amy once again. We’ve remained well connected since our days at Walkers and it’s been rewarding to witness her career progression in HR. I firmly believe Amy is a fantastic addition to our strong leadership team, especially as we continue on our successful growth journey. People have always been at the core of our business, so having the right HR team and the right leader is fundamental. Amy has the experience, ambition, and personability to steady any ship and to ensure our people grow and develop with the business.”

In her spare time, Amy enjoys spending quality time with her family, indulging her passion for gardening and interiors, and prioritising her health and well-being through activities like yoga and reading.

We are fast approaching the Easter Holidays and we would like to confirm that we will be operating over the holiday period upon prior agreement.

Please allow us to clarify our operational plans:

Friday 29th March – Deliveries & Collections by arrangement only
Saturday 30th March – Standard service
Sunday 31st March – CLOSED
Monday 1st April – Deliveries & Collections by arrangement only
If you would like any collections or deliveries on the Bank Holiday days please contact us ASAP so we can check/plan availability and quote on these jobs before confirming.

We wish you all an enjoyable Easter period and thank you for the business which you choose to place with Expect Distribution.

Expect Distribution are excited to announce their new partnership with Bradford Bulls, which will see us become the official Match Ball sponsor for the 2024 season.

We take immense pride in our Bradford roots and entering into this partnership felt like a natural step. This collaboration serves as a testament to the shared values held by both entities, deeply rooted in the city of Bradford and committed to enriching the local community.

The partnership marks another milestone for Expect Distribution, following our successful collaborations with other local sports clubs, including Huddersfield Town, establishing a strong and positive presence within the community.

Commercial Director, Bob Duffy, comments: “We are proud to be a Bradford based business and employer and are delighted to be partnering with Bradford Bulls, which shows our support for the local community and our city. Engaging with the sport of rugby league, with its strong family values, caring for its community, and its supporting culture, resonates with us here at Expect and replicates our own values so a great match in many ways.

Working with Ian and the team in putting this package together for Expect Distribution has been a great experience, the whole team have been a delight to work with and we see this as a good starting point for the future.

We are excited to extend our support to Bradford Bulls for the coming season and wish the owners, the players, the fans and the city good luck with the target of getting to the Super League”.

Head of Commercial at Bradford Bulls, Ian Stafford, says: “Having spoken to Bob and the team on numerous occasions over the last few weeks, their passion for working with businesses in Bradford for the betterment of the community was evident.”

Expect Distribution, a leading player in the logistics industry, proudly announces the appointment of Andy Hague as the new Head of Transport. With an impressive 36-year career in logistics, Andy brings a wealth of experience to this role and is poised to make significant contributions to the company’s vision of achieving £100 million turnover.

Andy’s extensive background includes key roles with companies such as DHL, GXO, Wincanton, Asda, and Tesco, culminating in his most recent position as the national transport lead in the parcels sector with Evri. His seasoned expertise and leadership will play a pivotal role in shaping Expect Distribution’s future.

When asked about his decision to join Expect, Andy expressed excitement about the opportunity to contribute directly to the company’s vision.

“This is a great time to be joining the Expect team, the Board have shared the vision and strategy, which I can help to deliver, as well as support the growth and recent acquisition of the business.

We are delighted to welcome Andy to the role, overseeing and bringing together our Contract Logistics and General Distribution divisions.  Andy is a highly experienced and capable operator and from first meeting him I was really confident that he was the right cultural fit for our business as we continue to develop and grow.  We are confident that under Andy’s leadership and guidance, our Transport division will continue to flourish and provide the very best solutions for our customers.”

After 34 years’ service to the business it’s now time for Neil to move onto his next chapter. As someone who is a lover of all things music we created Neilfest, a festival-themed afternoon/evening filled with music, entertainment, food and drink, it was the people who made it though, so thank you to everyone who braved the elements to make Neil’s well-deserved send-off the success it was.