SAICA livery on trailers. Downton operations at SAICA, Carrington, Manchester.

EV Cargo’s CM Downton has secured four new contract extensions, sealing distribution agreements with paper, cardboard and sustainable packaging firms Saica Pack, Stora Enso and SCA and toy firm Mattel.

The Saica Pack, Stora Enso and SCA deals see Downton continue to grow its share of the packaging sector, which now accounts for around 30% of the Gloucestershire-based operator’s business.

Downton’s extension with Saica Pack involves additional deliveries of paper reels inbound to the Newport manufacturing plant and the distribution of finished corrugated packaging to Saica Pack’sbFMCG customer base.

The company will manage up to 15 loads per day, using Downton’s on-site planner to oversee a small core fleet which will link into the company’s wider transport network of over 500 vehicles.

Downton’s extended national distribution contract for Stora Enso sees the company transporting paper reels from the port of Tilbury to customers in the newsprint, magazine and packaging sectors.

The contract includes the operation of specialist trailers, including walking floors for one customer.

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The company has also extended its contract with SCA which involves delivering paper reels from the port of Sheerness to packaging manufacturers nationwide.

Downton also saw off rivals in a competitive tender to retain its contract with toy manufacturer Mattel.

The contract involves the distribution of Mattel products to the UK’s largest retailers from the Mattel distribution centre in Leicester.

Zac Brown, CM Downton MD, said: “Downton is renowned for building long-term customer relationships by focusing on quality and efficient solutions.

“Building on that reputation, and in line with EV Cargo’s strategy for growth, we’ve been successful in securing these key contract extensions.

“Not only do they reinforce our expertise in the paper and packaging sector, but the regional spread integrates well with current network flows to optimise national operations, drive efficiencies, add customer value and reduce waste.”

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