Howard Tenens Logistics has seen its contract with plumbing and heating merchant Williams & Co extended by another year, thanks to its high level of customer service.

Under the partnership, which began in 2019, Howard Tenens has transitioned Williams’ delivery service from a next-day pallet delivery service to a through-the-night delivery service on a closed loop system.

The partnership has also seen the introduction of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as an alternative fuel on two key routes managed from Andover, reducing CO2 emissions by 90%.

The distribution network has also grown, which the partnership said has unlocked economies of scale and allowed both companies to grow together.

In a statement Williams & Co said: “Since the start of the agreement, Williams has grown considerably year on year.

“This has been made a success by working collaboratively with Howard Tenens, who have supported our new branch opening programme by providing through-the-night logistics.

“Since the start of the contract, we have grown the number of routes and the number of branches requiring a through-the-night service, on a closed-loop system.

“The return loop system also allows us to be fluid with our stock between locations and ensure we have the right product in the right place. This could not have happened without the advanced planning and traffic systems and the flexibility of Howard Tenens’ fleet capabilities.

“We have seen improvements in our customer service levels, a reduction in damages of products, and improved turnaround times. Numerous reviews of the routes have helped us save on fuel, contributing to a reduction in our carbon footprint, in line with the Howard Tenens sustainability plan.

“This flexibility, the levels of customer service, and business support in a partner is a key reason why we have further extended our relationship with Howard Tenens for a further year.”

Howard Tenens Logistics added that the company is “proud to continue supporting Williams and looks forward to a future of successful collaboration, driving innovation, efficiency, and delivering mutual value.”