Abbey Logistics Group has won the contract to move bulk sugar for British Sugar, following a competitive tender, in what is described as a ‘long-term deal’.

The contract will see Abbey take responsibility for transport planning and delivery services at the sugar producer, which supplies one million tonnes of sugar per year to the food industry and supermarkets. Sugar will be transported in bulk granulated sugar tanks and liquid tankers from four processing plants around the UK.

Steve Granite, chief executive at Abbey, said: “We are delighted that British Sugar has entrusted Abbey with such a critical service. Abbey understands the sensitivities of seasonal food manufacture and delivery, and our significant experience of working with major food manufacturers and retailers will be instrumental in supporting the continued success of British Sugar and its customers.”

British Sugar staff relevant to the contract will move to Abbey under TUPE regulations on 26 September.

Paul Townsend, head of supply chain at British Sugar, said: “Abbey shares our values when it comes to putting the customer at the forefront of everything we do.  We’re confident that Abbey’s proven ability to deliver a flexible and scalable transport solution, will make them a valuable partner in helping us delivering the best possible service for our customers.

In May Suttons Tankers, part of Suttons Group, said it is in its “best interests” to walk away from its eight-year relationship with British Sugar when its contract expires later this year.

The North West operator won the contract in a competitive tender in 2008 from incumbent Turners (Soham), which had previously held the contract for 34 years. Suttons said it wanted to focus is on its core business in the hazardous chemicals, gases and fuels sectors.

In November 2015 Wincanton signed a three year deal to move the finished product for British Sugar.

British Sugar is part of AB Sugar, which is wholly owned by international food, ingredients and retail group, Associated British Foods.

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