The APC - the largest independent delivery network in the UK - has celebrated its 30th anniversary and the talent within its business through an awards ceremony held at its annual All Depot Meeting (ADM).

The annual celebration saw members of The APC’s 100+ depots and national hub come together to award the achievements and professional successes of individuals and depots over the past year. This year's event also celebrated the 30th anniversary of The APC, marking three decades of exceptional support for SMEs and outstanding service in the UK's overnight delivery sector.

Against a challenging landscape for all UK businesses, the awards highlighted The APC’s continued commitment to the SME community, as well as the collaborative partnerships that depots across The APC network have built.

    

Team C Express Logistics was awarded the ‘National Depot of the Year’ award thanks to continued excellent service to the network and positive sales growth. The business joined The APC network in 1997 and since then has gone on to win the prestigious “Depot of the Year” award five times. In order to support the significant growth of the business and its customers, Team C Express Logistics has made a number of investments in its business and has recently expanded its operation to two neighbouring units, trebling its site to approximately 100,000 sq feet. Commenting on the award, Tim Clements, Managing Director at Team C Express Logistics believes that “experienced and knowledgeable local customer services”, ensures customers and network members gain an immediate response, which “has always been a key to our success and will remain a priority”.

Across the UK, seven depots were also honoured with regional depot awards, as a result of their leading delivery performance and proven track record of outstanding customer service for customers in their local areas. These included; Direct Express Parcels Ltd (Scotland and Ireland); Huddersfield Express Couriers Ltd T/A HEC Logistics (North); Team C Express Logistics Ltd (East Anglia and National Depot of the Year); Streetwise Couriers, Sussex (South East); A to Z Logistics Solutions Ltd (London); Priority Express (Couriers) Ltd (South West); G Force Express Parcels Ltd (Midlands).

Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive of The APC, said: “This year’s depot winners uphold the core values that have been at the centre of The APC over the last 30 years. As a business we have remained true to our founding principles since 1994. We have and always will be strong believers in championing SMEs across the country and we remain committed to building for the future growth of our customers.

Through our annual business awards we are able to recognise the brilliant work of our depot teams across the country who live by these values every day. They consistently go above and beyond to support and champion SMEs across the country. Their fantastic work helps to underpin our local service and national network offer, which has continuously set our business apart for the last 30 years.”

In addition to celebrating the remarkable depot performance across its network, The APC also gave special recognition to three individual colleagues at the ADM.

    

Maxine Parkes from The APC’s national sortation centre in Cannock was awarded ‘Colleague of the Year’ at this year’s ceremony. Following numerous praise and recognition amongst her colleagues for her contributions to The APC and its network, she was this year recognised for her hard work, dedication and commitment to the business over the last 16+ years.

    

Another individual winner was Peter Cook from A to Z Logistics Solutions Ltd, who was named ‘Driver of the Year’, a coveted national recognition that is a result of nominations from all of The APC’s 100+ depots. Peter - a longstanding member of A to Z Logistics, with 25 years’ service to the depot - 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.

Over the past 12 months, Peter displayed unparalleled resilience by continuing to fulfil his duties diligently, even while undergoing treatment for cancer. His dedication to his work and his commitment to exemplary customer service is highlighted by the numerous glowing reviews received from A to Z Logistics’ customers. Time and again, customers have commended Peter for his professionalism, reliability, and unwavering determination to ensure that important items are delivered on time, every time.

Commenting on his recognition, Russ Jones, Operations Director at A to Z Logistics said: “Peter’s tireless efforts are truly inspiring and commendable. His dedication to his work has not only upheld our reputation for excellence but has also strengthened the trust and confidence that our customers place in us. Beyond his exemplary performance on the job, his positive attitude and willingness to go above and beyond his duties have made him a cherished member of the team at the depot. His resilience in the face of adversity serves as a source of inspiration to us all, reminding us of the importance of perseverance, dedication, and compassion in everything we do.”

The third award was for ‘Spirit of the Network’, which recognises ‘the amazing acts of individuals that go above and beyond’. This year the award was given to Rob Creegan at Swift Despatch Ltd, in recognition of the action he took and support he gave a consumer who went into cardiac arrest whilst he was making a delivery to their home.

Jonathan Smith, concluded: “At this year’s celebrations, we wanted to pause and reflect on the remarkable contributions that have been made across our business and the network over the last 30 years. These colleagues are just a few examples of the individuals who take tremendous pride in their work and are committed to helping customers, colleagues, and those in need across their local communities. I really hope this recognition will continue to inspire and positively influence all those who work by their side throughout the next 30 years.”

For media enquiries please email apc-team@schonandco.com.