Inside Premier Logistics
Challenges and what the future holds
In conversation with Warehouse Manager Mick Thorpe
Where efficiency, safety, and team synergy are paramount, warehouse managers like Mick Thorpe of Premier Logistics are the pillars of the logistics industry. Drawing on over 30 years of experience, Mick’s role extends beyond warehouse oversight; he embraces site management, HR, and a maintains a keen focus on nurturing a cohesive team culture.
“People management is the key to success in any business,” he emphasises. “If everybody’s pulling in the same direction and supporting each other, the managers’ time can be spent innovating and steered away from day-to-day issues that consume time.”
The Warehouse Manager’s ethos centres on effective people management. “There’s an importance to developing all employees to be not just workers, but invested managers in their own right, and this aligns with the company’s goals and values.
“It’s very intimate at Premier and we’re very connected as a team so everyone feels cared about and I think that shows in terms of the minimal turnover of staff.”
Premier Logistics, comprising 75 employees, faces its fair share of challenges, but staff turnover is not one of them. The area of the business that experiences the highest staff turnover is within the drivers’ team. This turnover, though not large in numbers, highlights the need for promotion of careers in the logistics sector.
Mick touches on the industry’s workforce dynamics, especially concerning driver regulations and the pursuit of a healthy work/life balance for employees.
“The competitive jobs market offers drivers a great deal of flexibility to switch between businesses in pursuit of their own personal needs and work/life balance,” he explains.
However, the delivery pressures within the industry normally result in drivers having to work long hours. It would be nice to find a workable solution around this problem, but it is not going to be a quick fix unless government changes are implemented within the existing driving regulations.
Illustrating a strategic approach to operational challenges, Mick is keen to explore alternative working hour models to align with both employee wellbeing and business sustainability.
He sees logistics as a dynamic sector with abundant opportunities, particularly for the younger generation. He emphasises the importance of understanding the pivotal role logistics plays in everyday life, urging a broader appreciation for its complexities and contributions.
“It’s key that people understand the importance of logistics. We all go to supermarket and take it for granted that the shelves will be full, but the reality is if it were not for the logistic sector, the shelves would be bare. So, it’s a very, very important sector.”
Navigating the industry as a logistics provider involves grappling with uncertainty, especially in today’s economic climate. The Warehouse Manager reflects on the industry’s resilience during the COVID-19 period, where increased storage demands buoyed the business but acknowledges the shifting dynamics going into 2024.
One area of potential improvement lies in technology adoption. Mick acknowledges the benefits of Premier’s tracking systems in reducing human error and enhancing efficiency. However, the current clientele’s needs don’t necessitate immediate investment in more advanced systems, highlighting the delicate balance between operational upgrades and cost-effectiveness.
“We’re talking tens of thousands of pounds to get more advanced RF systems set up. For us, we’re holding off spending in that area at this moment when the current clientele doesn’t dictate that we need it. It’s all about strategic decision making and not rushing to get ahead when it’s not needed yet, but I predict it’s something for Premier’s future.”
This pragmatic approach and foresight, ensuring investments are timely and aligned with business needs, are key to staying competitive.
Amidst industry challenges, the company’s approach remains focused on growth, service excellence and client satisfaction. Macaulay Christopher plays a pivotal rule in customer relationship and new business opportunities. Mick says: “Mac is working hard behind the scenes to grow the business, but it’s everybody’s responsibility to do that. We must dot the i’s and cross the t’s with our existing clients in terms of service and price and push hard to win new business.
There are so many opportunities and benefits to working with Premier Logistics, who already offer a multitude of different services under one umbrella that include warehouse storage, transport services, HGV garage service and repairs, onsite parking, HGV wash systems, and if that is not enough, they also have the Premier gym that is open to the general public. We aim to give our clients a one-stop-shop that meets all their needs.”
As a family business, Premier’s ethos is rooted in trust, transparency, and a commitment to long-term relationships. This personal touch sets the business apart from larger competitors, emphasising our responsiveness and personalised service.
Working in the logistics industry requires a blend of operational expertise, human resource management, and foresight. As the industry evolves, Premier’s focus remains on leveraging technology, nurturing talent, and delivering excellence in service.
