A to Z Logistics Solutions Ltd, part of The APC delivery network – the largest independent parcel delivery network in the UK – has today announced the opening of a new, larger operational parcel depot at Orpington Business Park in Orpington. The opening comes as part of the delivery firm’s significant investments in its business and workforce to support long-term business growth and support for local SME customers across South East London.
The new site is over three times the size of the previous site, allowing the business to expand on its Overnight and Sameday parcel collection and delivery service offerings to local businesses across SW16, all BR, CR and SE3-27 postcodes. Additionally, the increased space allows A to Z to build on its storage, pallets and pick and pack services for customers, supporting growth of these local SME businesses, and through the nationwide coverage of The APC delivery network, enabling them to reach an ever expanding national customer base.
Russ Jones, Operations Director at A to Z, said: “As a business we’re in great shape, despite the ongoing economic turbulence, and our flexibility as a business has allowed us to evolve and respond to the needs of our customers quickly during times of change. Since joining The APC network back in 2017, we’ve continued to invest in our business and our workforce, to make sure our business is set up for long-term success; supporting our valued SME customers, and ensuring we can deliver on our promises to them.”
Alongside the investment in its business, A to Z has also invested in the expansion of its local workforce in recent months. A to Z has doubled its team in the last year and today comprises 20 employees and 40 drivers – made up entirely of local staff – helping to build on the business’ delivery service offerings and promises to local businesses across South East London.
Russ Jones continued: “For me, local customer service has always been paramount. The APC network represents something different; allowing our customers to deliver nationwide, without losing the local customer service and support, which is so critical for many SME businesses. As a local SME business ourselves, we want to contribute positively to the local community and local businesses as they build for the future, providing them with improved service options through our new depot and dedicated workforce.”
A to Z was recently awarded ‘London Regional Depot of the Year’ at The APC’s annual All Depot Meeting (ADM) as a result of their leading delivery performance and proven track record of outstanding customer service for customers in Orpington.
One of A to Z’s long-standing employees, Peter Cook, was also recognised at the awards and crowned ‘Driver of the Year’ – a coveted national recognition that is a result of nominations from all of The APC’s 100+ depots. With 25 years’ service to the depot, Peter was awarded the title for his exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment to his role amidst personal challenges, which have not only inspired his colleagues but have also left an indelible mark on the local community.
Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive at The APC, said: “The world is still changing, and across our network we continue to work hard to navigate the evolving habits of consumers and needs of our customers, and quickly shape our business to ensure we continue to provide a great service to our customers. As a business, A to Z is clearly committed to building for future growth, and the growth of customers. A to Z’s new site and investment in its business will ensure it is well placed to navigate the continued evolution of our industry; and I am confident that the passion, pride and entrepreneurialism that comes from the people within the team, will ensure our customers continue to be served well.”
