A record-breaking Palletforce members general meeting (MGM) attracted the largest ever number of delegates to hear how the network plans to continue increasing its market share through investment, growth and continual improvement.
The annual event, where over 100 member hauliers came together to celebrate the strength of the network and mark Palletforce’s 25th anniversary year, raised over £32,000 for two charities.
More than 300 delegates heard how Palletforce’s focus on marginal gains and constant improvement in areas including service, technology and operational efficiency can help drive the network forward.
Mark Tapper, Palletforce chief executive, said: “In tough economic conditions Palletforce has continued to outperform the sector and grow its market share.
“We’ve achieved that because we have been relentless in how we have focussed on strengthening the network, adding capacity, recruiting new members and delivering a premium customer experience.
“That has been in our DNA since day one and it was appropriate that, on our 25th anniversary, we were able to reinforce that consistency, dependability and continual improvement to our members.”
A special panel discussion explored the ways the network’s service offering is changing to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
The panel included Steve Telford, Ideal Standard International NV logistics manager UK & Ireland, Simon Sparrowhawk, Wyvern Cargo operations director, and James Walker, Katem Logistics commercial manager.
Palletforce’s directors outlined how AI is being harnessed to improve efficiency, boost performance and help maintain service excellence across the network.
Delegates heard how Palletforce had added 22 new member companies to its network in 2025, increasing capacity, strengthening its nationwide coverage and securing service to every UK postcode every day.
The star speaker of the afternoon session was Bradley Scanes, the F1 performance coach who has worked with Max Verstappen during multiple world Formula One championship victories.
Comedian Rhys James was the evening entertainer and helped conduct a charity auction which raised over £32,000 for Midlands Air Ambulance and Kids’ Village, a trailblazing project to build a respite care village for critically ill children and their families.
Mark Tapper added: “We have a long history of supporting vital charities – we have donated a six-figure sum to Midlands Air Ambulance over the past few years and these are two very deserving causes.
“We are proud of the role we play in our local communities and it is especially pleasing to see how supportive our member companies and all of the delegates at the MGM have been.”
