Transport logistics companies join forces

Two transport logistics companies have merged, each adding its own muscle to the combined operation that has been created. From June 1, Project Logistics Management (PLM) linked its primary consultancy/ brokerage/warehousing operation with vehicle owner/ operators, LeBrock Logistics. Both businesses had expanded over the years, but eventually reached a point where each had expansion needs that were outside what they already had in-house. PLM, for example, was established in 2008 by John Du Bourg and Carl Webb as a project logistics management service to the industry. “It was envisaged that we would operate on a consultancy/brokerage basis,” Webb told FTW. “We identified the need for a warehousing operation in 2013, and established PLM warehouse to fulfil this requirement and maintain client satisfaction.” But, Webb added, it had become increasingly clear over the years that in order to continue to provide the level of service to which PLM’s clients had become accustomed it would have to secure direct access to vehicles. This would also overcome the problem of foreign forwarders who only wanted to deal with vehicle-owning companies, not transport brokers. “Also, our approved transporters could not always maintain the service levels required,” he said, “resulting in our search for a like-minded business partner. “We were fortunate to identify Haydn Nadauld of LeBrock Logistics as having the same business philosophy as ourselves.” So the two companies have now merged, with LeBrock being absorbed into PLM, and the combined operation trading under the PLM name. Under the new set-up, Nadauld will continue to run the vehicle operation, enabling Du Bourg and Webb to continue running the brokerage side of the operation. The current fleet consists of nine vehicles, ranging from a 25-tonne semi-trailer to a 55t lowbed. “So we are now in the process of researching abnormal vehicle requirements in our particular sphere of the market,” said Webb, “and will be growing the vehicle complement accordingly.” INSERT & CAPTION We are now in the process of researching abnormal vehicle requirements and will be growing the vehicle complement. – Carl Webb