Culina integrates distribution operation

Culina Logistics is expanding its workforce by over 200 employees with the transfer of sub-contracted transport activities from the former Hanbury Davies business to in-house operations.

Hanbury Davies, which was acquired by Wincanton in January this year, worked seamlessly with Culina by supporting distribution activities in the chilled sector from the company’s Milton Keynes and Staffordshire sites.

It is proposed that the transfer of employment and services to Culina of all dedicated drivers and office based staff will take place on November 1st, 2008; following detailed negotiations with Wincanton to ensure a smooth transition.

The move follows the merger of Culina and Baylis Logistics earlier this year and enables the company to provide a more coordinated and effective supply chain service for its ambient and chilled food and drink customers.

Currently employing 1,300 people, Culina is also opening a major new site at Haverhill, Cambridgeshire, in August creating up to 350 jobs. This, along with the transport integration, will see the company ultimately employ 1,850.

The vehicle fleet will comprise 250 tractor units and 550 trailers.

Thomas van Mourik, CEO of Culina Logistics, said the company would continue to pursue opportunities to enhance its capabilities and increase its market share in both the ambient and chilled food and drink logistics sectors.

He added: “Culina is experiencing strong organic growth and we intend to press ahead with our stated aim of being the leading provider of high-quality logistics services in the marketplace.

“We have a robust infrastructure and a dedicated management team with sector expertise second to none that is committed to expanding our operations and providing customers with enhanced services.”