US giant AIT Worldwide Logistics is using the home delivery expertise of its UK subsidiary AIT Home Delivery, formerly known as Panther Logistics, to help drive growth in its European and US operations.
AIT Home Delivery, which was bought and rebranded by AIT Worldwide in June last year, is now sharing its experience of two-person home delivery with the group’s subsidiaries in the US and Europe.
The move is part of a strategy to create new opportunities by sharing best practices across geographical regions, which is being spearheaded by Gary McKelvey, AIT’s vice president of global home delivery operations.
McKelvey played a key role in merging the two delivery firms’ operations, expertise, and philosophies, following the acquisition of Panther Logistics. He also led Panther’s biggest ever contract win, a £35m deal with Sky, and has been with the company since 2015.
He is now tasked with revolutionising two-person home delivery services in the US and Europe and grasping the fresh opportunities each market presents.
McKelvey said: “The past few months have been hectic but incredibly productive. Since becoming VP, I’ve been working hard to identify fresh market possibilities and how best to grasp them.
“Every market is different with issues such as geographical and territorial challenges. However, there is also opportunity. Germany, for example, has similar economic e-commerce buying habits and requirements to the UK.”
McKelvey added: “The partnership has allowed us to share best practice on both sides of the pond.”
“The US,for example, has helped develop gym and leisure equipment services in the UK, while using British expertise in appliance and white goods delivery to enhance AIT Worldwide Logistics’ global operations.
“The senior management team has also encouraged staff to develop by empowering them to bring forward their ideas, giving them the responsibility and trust necessary to drive AIT forward.
“The way we have combined each partner’s skills and experience will act as a foundation for AIT Home Delivery’s plans to move into European markets and build on the success of its UK rebrand.”
He added: “AIT offers unrivalled first- and middle-mile services and its final-mile offering is now market-leading thanks to AIT Home Delivery.
“That exceptional final mile experience – characterised by premium services like removing packaging, assembly and installation, disposal, a seven-day-a-week service, and liaison with the customer on delivery windows – can be customised to fit any European retailer’s requirements.
“We are looking forward to bringing AIT’s world-class two-person home delivery services to more customers.”
AIT Worldwide Logistics praised McKelvey for his work in developing the company’s presence in the UK marketplace, and for winning significant new partnerships with major e-commerce retailers.
In a statement announcing the strategy the group said: “A key part of this is the two-way flow of business excellence, an objective driven by Gary’s leadership, exceptional drive, and commitment to constant improvement.”
