Member Article

Billingham based transport company gearing up for 2015 following recruitment drive

Billingham-based transport company Nicholson’s Transport is gearing up for a prosperous 2015 after successfully steering through the turbulent times of the past few years.

Nicholson’s Transport grew its order book last year and recruited an additional six new drivers and three office staff.

The business is now optimistically looking ahead to what it expects will be one of the busiest in its 28-year history.

Managing Director David Nicholson set up his business in 1987 with just himself and a truck but now employs more than 50 people with a fleet of 25 vehicles.

Nicolson’s Transport was a founding member of The Pallet Network (TPN), a collaboration between hauliers to distribute goods around the country and was the first member of the Hazchem Network, which specialises in the transport of dangerous goods and chemicals.

Mr Nicholson said collaboration with all stakeholders including customers, suppliers and other hauliers along with staff, was a key driver for success in the business.

Nicholson’s Transport also believes that being able to get all of its 25 drivers through mandatory Driver CPC training months ahead of schedule has put the firm at a distinct advantage.

While the European Union directive created a shortage of qualified drivers, Nicholson’s actually increased its quota of truckers.

Managing Director David Nicholson said: “For us, 2015 is all about growth. The last few years have been difficult but things are beginning to really improve now and fuel prices are falling which is great for everyone.

“Confidence is booming and we have experienced a significant upturn in business, particularly in Hiab crane hire as the construction sector recovers.

“But it’s always with a note of caution particularly as the transport sector is so reactive to market conditions.

“It’s the third recession that we have been through and you can’t get too complacent. We have all learned from the past and the key lesson is that you need to be prepared.

“We are now becoming known across the North East and particularly in Teesside, as the distribution hub of choice for several transport networks and that approach is certainly something we encourage.

“The recession put many transport firms out of business so it’s important that we now work together to build up the networks again. It’s a win-win situation for Nicholson’s Transport as we offer exceptional customer service to all and believe our team are the best in class - that’s the difference.

“The last few years have been all about surviving through change. Change is the norm in business and we have drilled that ethos into our team to expect change on a daily basis as we continue to grow.

“But we are still here five years after an awful recession hit and are stronger without a doubt. We are now approaching 30 years in business and we believe the best years are ahead of us.”