Three new Linde R20 forklift trucks have been purchased on a replacement programme helping support the 15-strong fleet in the ambient warehouse. They can lift loads of 2,500kg with a reach of up to 11m in height.
SPAR International Preffered Supplier Linde has also supplied the business with six new N20 front-facing picking trucks for the ambient warehouse as part of the 30-strong fleet, bringing the new total investment cost to approximately £200,000 (€237,200).
On average, a forklift truck will travel 90 miles and a picking truck 75 miles each week around the ambient warehouse, and they are operational across a 24-hour period.
The trucks are fitted with exchange batteries that enable them to be operational 24 hours. The front-facing picking trucks have improved comfort and efficiency for operators while providing them with increased vision, leading to fewer impacts and damage.
James Hall & Co. Ltd is SPAR UK’s primary wholesaler and distributor for the North of England. The company serves a network of 600 independent SPAR retailers and company-owned SPAR stores six days a week.
Les Abbott, Warehouse Manager at James Hall & Co. Ltd, said: “We have held a relationship with Linde for 12 years now as our main manual handling equipment provider. We continue to invest in the highest quality equipment to enhance the business’ efficiency.
“Our ambient warehouse is an exceptionally busy place, and we need vehicles that we can rely on. We are very pleased with the nine new additions to our fleet, and they have helped strengthen our operation.”
Source: SPAR UK
The UK became a SPAR member in 1956 when SPAR International granted the SPAR licence to a group of independent wholesalers. As a result, there are now five regional partners in the UK. A central office in London provides national marketing and buying services for the group.
SPAR has led the highly competitive convenience market in the UK for many years. Always innovative, the five regional partners continue to grow the brand. SPAR UK comprises independently owned licensed retailers and company-owned stores. These include forecourts, airports, train stations, city centres, and local neighbourhood stores.
