Middlesbrough transport firm pledges support to Armed Forces community

A transport firm in Middlesbrough has committed to supporting ex-service personnel with employment opportunities through the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a pledge by businesses and organisations to acknowledge and honour the dedication and sacrifices made by members of the armed forces, both past and present, and their families. In signing, Ward Bros Malton Ltd (Ward Bros), a key name in the North East logistics sector and member of the Palletways UK network, demonstrates its dedication to providing support, recognition, and opportunities for those who have served or continue to serve their country and pledges to uphold a set of values and principles that will guide its efforts to assist veterans, reservists, and their families.

Steve Ward, Joint Managing Director of Ward Bros, said: “We recognise the unique skills and experiences members of the armed forces community can bring to the workforce, and we’re fully committed to offering them meaningful employment opportunities and career development at our depots in Middlesbrough and Malton.

“We welcome candidates all year round with Armed Forces background. As a responsible and community-focused organisation, we proudly announce our formal support of armed forces personnel. We are honoured to join the ranks of businesses that have already signed the Armed Forces Covenant.

“It’s a great feeling to be among the first cohort of Palletways members to sign, and I’m hopeful it’ll encourage others to do the same.”

Warwick Trimble, network director for Palletways UK, added: “We fully support and encourage our member network to actively support ex-forces personnel. The signing of the Armed Forces Covenant further solidifies Ward Bros’ ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility. The company has a strong track record of giving back to the community and fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity within its workforce.”

Established in 1986, Ward Bros has become one of the leading haulage companies in Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Hull, Malton and the North East. Now employing over one hundred and fifty staff across three sites, with approximately one hundred vehicles, being a member of Palletways UK strengthens its position as the leading provider of pallet distribution in the North East.

Ward Bros is one of over 120 independent transport providers of the Palletways UK network, belonging to Imperial, a DP World company. They benefit from shared expertise and resources from within the group to deliver consignments of palletised freight to market faster and more cost-effectively than ever before. The Palletways Group, renowned for its industry-leading IT developments and operational systems, comprises 450+ depots and 20 hub operations, through which it provides collection and distribution services across 24 European countries, including the UK.