Pall-Ex Group has announced a major step in its long-term strategic plan, confirming the merging of the Fortec and Pall-Ex palletised freight distribution networks. The consolidation reinforces the Group’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence, service quality and member-driven growth.
Effective from 1st January 2026, the UK networks will evolve, operating under a unified Pall-Ex brand. The move marks the final phase of network consolidation and has been part of the long-term project since acquiring Fortec in 2020.
Pall-Ex Group COO, Barry Byers, commented: “When we acquired Fortec five years ago, our purpose was to gain market share, increase hub capacity and strengthen our network with quality members, all of which have been achieved.”
The introduction of the Group’s core operating system Nexus was the start of the network consolidation. Simultaneously, member territories were re-engineered across the UK to create operational synergies through increased drop density, resulting in enhanced revenues and condensed territories.
“Our next phase was to align our commercial offering to both our shareholder members and valued customers, which was deployed in early 2025. We are now entering the final phase of consolidation, simplifying our operational and commercial activities by operating as a unified force in the market,” continued Byers.
Pall-Ex Group has continued its evolution through the launch of the Pall-Ex Logistics UK Storage and Fulfilment Network, diversifying its offering to provide tailored distribution services from local storage facilities across the UK, connected through a bespoke warehouse management system.
In addition, this announcement follows Pall-Ex Group’s landmark £80 million investment into a new Group HQ and flagship hub in Leicestershire. The 408,000 square feet Centre of Excellence will set the standard for capability, sustainability and innovation in the sector.
In preparation for the consolidation, the Group has invested £200,000 in upgrading its Watford Gap Hub, alongside a focused recruitment drive to expand the Hubs’ operations team and meet the demands of increased freight volumes.
From January 2026, all Pall-Ex shareholder members will access the current Flagship Hub (Leicestershire) and the nearest regional hub, either the Northern Hub (Rochdale) or the Watford Gap Hub (Northampton). This will enhance operational speed, increase regional hub volumes and create a more efficient service for customers across the UK.
Michelle Naylor, Managing Director – UK Network, commented: “Our long-term vision has always been to minimise operating costs and maximise efficiency while we evolve our customer offering to accelerate growth, and the time has come to deliver the next steps in our strategy to do so. This alignment within our group is about simplifying operations and creating exciting new growth opportunities for our existing shareholder members, whilst also attracting quality transport organisations to our network. It’s a win for our members, people and customers, and another huge step forward in shaping a stronger, more sustainable Pall-Ex Group.”
