The owner of a growing Sussex logistics company has taken the advice to build his business quite literally – after constructing his new premises himself from the ground up.
Enterprising Steve Ellis, founder and managing director of Prestige Distribution in Horsham, bought a nine-acre plot of land for his expanding firm and went about building offices and a warehouse big enough to hold 300 pallets.
The family-run company has been reaping the benefits of Steve’s handiwork and the £1.8 million investment ever since, with volumes increasing thanks to its membership of the Wolverhampton-based Pallet-Track network.
It’s a family affair at Prestige’s new Bridge Farm base, with 60-year-old Steve’s daughter Katie, 25, and son Michael, 23, playing integral roles in the business.
Both are qualified Class 1 HGV drivers, with Michael passing his test as recently as April and Katie also holding the Road Haulage CPC for transport managers.
Katie said: “After many years of renting, it’s fantastic to have our own premises – and my dad built it all! It’s a fantastic achievement and he really had the vision for what he wanted to do.
“We are a proud family business and my brother and me have followed in my dad’s footsteps. I passed my Class 1 aged 19 and have spent many shifts night trunking. It’s fantastic that my brother has passed his Class 1 as well.”
The majority of Prestige’s work comes via Pallet-Track and it is also investing in its fleet to keep up with demand.
One 14-tonne DAF has just joined the ranks with another 18-tonne DAF, while the business is awaiting a further two tractors units at the end of the year. The business is also testing electric forklifts, which it will be looking to invest in next.
“We just outgrew our last home and with Pallet-Track growing so quickly, we really needed the extra yard and warehouse space,” added Katie.
“We’ve made a couple of moves over the life of the business and it’s great to be able to put down roots in a place of our own.”
Caroline Green, chief executive of Pallet-Track, added: “We’ve often said that in a market based on small margins, service is our biggest differentiator and a huge reason why our network is so successful.
“The dedication and diligence of Steve and his family at Prestige has made them a real success story and the fact they built their own premises from scratch is a remarkable achievement.
“We wish them every ongoing success as they continue to grow with us.”
For more information about Pallet-Track, call 0870 385 005 or visit www.pallet-track.co.uk.