Expansion into a larger site in Daventry has given Northamptonshire haulier EFM Distribution the opportunity not only to build its core business but also to diversify into new areas.
EFM has invested significantly in the 50,000 square feet of warehousing space and yard, situated close to the M1, that will not only house the firm’s own vehicles when they’re on site but will provide scope for a new fulfilment operation, outdoor storage space and facilities for drivers to book for overnight stays.
Founded in 2005 by Managing Director, Phil Minney, EFM is a family owned and operated business. What started with a single tractor unit has grown into a fleet of 35 vehicles ranging from a 3.5T curtain sider, up to the largest 65T articulated vehicles for moving heavy duty plant machinery.
International deliveries are available through EFM’s membership of Palletline, the UK and Europe’s leading pallet network, while the Daventry depot is perfect for ease of access to the country’s main arterial routes for national and local deliveries.
EFM, which has a team of 35 drivers and 15 office/warehouse staff at the Daventry site, works with prestigious multi-million-pound contracts, including delivering time-critical NHS PPE, right down to smaller solutions for local businesses.
Phil said:
“This move marks an exciting new chapter for EFM. Not only does the investment in the new facility allow us to continue to support our existing customer base from a convenient location, but it’s also given us room to expand our services further.
“It’s good to be in Daventry and we’ll be working hard to get our name known around the town. This county is obviously known as a centre of logistics, and you have to stand out from the crowd. We’d like to focus on the Daventry area to become the haulier of choice in this part of the county, whilst also introducing some new services that will widen our scope and give us more options.”
Among the immediate changes at the new High March Industrial Estate premises is the introduction of facilities for drivers needing safe secure overnight parking. The site is manned 24 hours, seven days a week, with regular security patrols, 24 CCTV cameras covering the outside area, fully secure fencing and control barriers. Using the SNAP drivers’ app, it’s now possible to check availability and book into the site where a range of facilities have been provided to cater for drivers, including toilets and showers, a drivers’ rest area that contains a washing machine, tumble drier, TV and somewhere to make a hot drink.
Rob Cutting, Commercial Manager at EFM Distribution, said:
“The new site provides us with the space to park our own vehicles, store customers plant or machinery, and additional space for drivers who need somewhere to park up. It’s quick and simple, once a driver knows where they’ll be overnight, they can check the app, or book in and pay directly with the office. The haulage business is expanding all the time, and having additional space opens new opportunities for us to add value for both new and existing customers.
“We’ve expanded both our sales and customer service teams, and we’re keen to get out there, meet new and potential customers face to face and demonstrate to them that this company has a can-do attitude. We are a firm that likes to say Yes first, and then work on finding a solution to meet our customers’ requirements.
“I have a background in sales and customer service and know that, ultimately, moving a pallet is moving a pallet, any haulier can do it. What makes the difference is the customer service offered and the customer experience. There are so many companies in this area, so if you don’t offer added value, there’s always competition snapping at your heels.
“By diversifying we are building on the haulage side of the business and at the same time making ourselves less completely reliant on it.”
Having a significant amount of warehousing space available has led EFM to start work on developing its EFM fulfilment business, offering a dedicated pick-and-pack service, aimed at B2C customers who have perhaps outgrown their current operation and need to move to a fulfilment solution.
Phil said:
“This is a growing part of the market, and we provide a service where we can fulfil orders on behalf of our customers.
“The warehouse software is fully integrated with the likes of Amazon, Ebay and TikTok Shop. In addition to these integrations, the software also works with the majority of selling sites and carriers. Initially, the main focus will be FMCG, but with potential to diversify as time goes on.
“I’m very proud of what we are doing, we needed this move to give us the motivation to expand and push ahead. I started with one vehicle and gradually grew the company, but at that point needed to be cautious about growing too fast. Nearly 20 years on, I now have a great team that brings knowledge and expertise, new premises, and with that, the confidence to continue to grow.”
Find out more about EFM Distribution by calling 01604 763850, email info@efmdistribution.co.uk or visit the website
