Jarrolds move into transport gives customers complete end-to-end service

Famous for its department stores, Jarrolds moved into haulage following its purchase of RDM, which had been an APC member for over 20 years.

The delivery firm services local businesses within the NR postcode area, and Jarrolds retained all employees from its previous owner who had already built strong relationships with customers in the region.

The acquisition was the start of Jarrolds’ investment into logistics solutions and the brand has continued to grow with a number of recent award wins, including Outstanding Achievement Award at the EDP Business Awards and Best Independent Department Store at the Drapers Independent Awards 2024.

Tom Burdett, Jarrolds group director of finance and strategic operations, said: “We knew we didn’t want to miss an opportunity to be a part of the UK’s largest independent delivery network whose core values aligned so perfectly with ours.

“The focus on quality and customer service that The APC has was a really key point for us in making our first move into the logistics space.”

Jarrolds Logistics is now expanding and redeveloping its warehouse, which will enable the business to offer warehousing and fulfilment services, in addition to its next day delivery offering.

Burdett added: “We wanted to enhance our offer to customers and provide a complete end-to-end service from warehousing and fulfilment, offering retail space in our stores and e-commerce space on our website, to delivering the product during the final mile to consumers.”

Jonathan Smith, The APC chief executive, said: “Welcoming Jarrolds Logistics into The APC network last year made perfect sense.

“Our shared values and commitment to supporting and championing SME businesses across the UK - offering them a unique and accessible national network that connects them to opportunities and helps drive their growth and success - is, and always will be, in the core DNA of both our businesses.”