A family-run logistics business in County Durham is accelerating its growth plans after expanding its partnership with Pallet-Track and widening its delivery footprint.
Chester-le-Street-based Logistics North East has strengthened its relationship with the Wolverhampton-based pallet network, building on its initial network membership in 2024.
The operator originally covered South Tyneside and western Sunderland postcodes, spanning NE31 to NE36 and SR1 to SR6, but has now extended its reach into County Durham and the wider Darlington area, adding DL4 to DL5 and DL12 to DL17.
The move increases both revenue potential and operational demands, placing greater pressure on planning, fleet utilisation and workforce resources.
To support this next phase of growth, the company has appointed experienced supply chain professional Josh Watson (pictured) as general manager.
Watson joins from a leadership role within Nissan Automotive, where he worked across functions to improve efficiency and maintain operational continuity. In his new position, he will oversee operations, administration and logistics as the business scales up.
He said the company’s focus would be on building a customer-led operation while maintaining service quality during expansion.
“It is an exciting time to be joining Logistics North East. My vision is to build on the growth achieved over the last two years and develop the business into a customer-focused logistics company that delivers consistent, high-quality service while scaling sustainably,” he said.
“By investing in our people, embracing smart technology and building strong client partnerships, we can expand our reach and improve operational efficiency.
“Ultimately, we want to become the North East’s most trusted logistics partner, known for our reliability, flexibility and long-term value,” he added.
Watson said that the year ahead would centre on developing staff, winning new customers across County Durham and strengthening relationships with existing clients, while navigating cost pressures and capacity challenges.
Pallet-Track’s CEO Stuart Godman said the partnership had already enhanced the network’s regional presence and would continue to deliver mutual benefits.
“Welcoming Logistics North East to the network in 2024 strengthened our growth in the region.
We are very pleased to be expanding such a successful partnership with a business that shares our values and vision.
“This expansion will unlock new commercial opportunities while improving efficiency for our members and customers.”
Pallet-Track’s model enables independent and family-run hauliers to collaborate on nationwide freight distribution, improving efficiency and service coverage.
Logistics North East currently operates a fleet of 38 vehicles and employs more than 80 staff. The company is also a member of Hazchem and XPO.
