Bristol firms needing to distribute goods on pallets into mainland Europe are being promised a more efficient service following the opening of a new logistics hub at Avonmouth.
The development by Palletways, Europe’s largest specialist logistics network, is the firm’s fifth in the UK and will offer a pan-European gateway for companies in the region to deliver to 20 countries as well as across the UK.
The £200,000 Avonmouth facility is already processing more than 500 pallets every day. 
As well as 17 hubs across Europe, the Palletways network consists of over 400 depots, responsible for a daily movement of 40,000 pallets. The firm, formed in 1994, specialises in moving pallets of freight across the UK and Europe through hub operations.
The South West hub will also have environmental benefits. The number of HGV miles saved is estimated to be in the region of 163,000 miles – equivalent to around 100,000 litres of fuel and around 300 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
Palletways UK managing director Dave Walmsley said: “Bristol is a fantastic location for the next stage of Palletways Group’s ambitious European expansion plans. The city is well-served by the M5 and M4 for our network to move goods west towards Wales, south west towards Devon and Cornwall and east towards Swindon and Wiltshire and beyond to European destinations. 
“It will support West of England businesses growth and contribute to the region’s economic success.
“The greatest benefit for our customers in the region is that they can book deliveries to be sent across the UK and Europe and we will collect on one vehicle and sort it at our South West hub for onward delivery to its multiple destinations.”
Pictured, top: Avonmouth and Lawrence Weston councillor Jo Sergeant cuts the ribbon on the new South West Hub with PalletwaysUK managing director Dave Walmsley, left, and Cllr Donald Alexander. Right, Dave Walmsley outlines his vision for Palletways’ regional hub business model
