A Norfolk-based haulier and logistics business is expanding as it seeks to capitalise on increasing demand for storage solutions, prompted by the boom in eCommerce and next-day delivery.
FreightForce Distribution Ltd is investing £1.5m to fund construction of a brand-new warehouse in Great Yarmouth, with the support of a £700,000 funding package from Lloyds Bank, which will increase its storage capacity five-fold.
The new facility, which will complement its existing headquarters in Norwich, will allow FreightForce to boost its capacity from 1,000 pallets to 5,300 pallets. This is in response to customers – particularly manufacturers and suppliers requiring products to be kept in storage to cater for next-day delivery and click and collect orders.
The expansion of the firm’s storage operations follows a period of significant growth in its distribution division. It operates a fleet of 44 HGV trucks nationally and 14 trucks locally, handling thousands of products a year. In turn, it has now grown to 100 staff and turnover is projected to hit £13.5m in 2022.
With enhanced storage facilities, the business now has what it calls a ‘total transport solution’, meaning it can handle the entire process of collection, storage and distribution of goods for its customers. This removes the hassle of logistics for businesses that are stretching to meet increasing demand from consumers, and also reduces the costs associated with engaging multiple logistics partners.
The business is also using the site in Great Yarmouth as well as Norwich as the base for its driver training business, Freight Train. It teaches new candidates how to operate its full-length HGVs, shadow experienced drivers and achieve skills not taught in driving lessons.
Nick Jolley, managing director at FreightForce, said: “As we expand our operations nationally, it’s only right that we expand our footprint in Norfolk. The site at Great Yarmouth is going to be integral to our growth, as it means we can support one of the fastest growing areas of our business, but also reduce costs and hassle for our customers.
“It’s important to us that we’re able to offer as much support to our customers as possible. It’s a difficult time, but there are opportunities for businesses to thrive, and we want to make sure that they can respond to that demand and continue to grow their business.”
Andy West, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, said: “FreightForce is the perfect example of a business that’s spotted untapped market demand and an opportunity to grow, and has invested to make it happen. Led by Nick, the team’s commitment to its customers and their needs is paying off.
“It’s a pleasure to support the business on their growth journey, and we’ll continue to be by their side to help them capitalise on further opportunities down the road.”
