The award recognises the work done by iForce, alongside its partner Allwood Recycling Services, to reduce waste, including food waste, and increase the rebate revenue on cardboard, polythene, pallets, and metals.

The win reflects the wider groups’ outstanding contribution to sustainable logistics and our ambitious goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050.

By introducing new sorting practices and baling technology, alongside improved employee education and training, at its headquarters in Corby, iForce has reduced costs, improved recycling rates and increased revenue. This includes the recovery of around 200 pallets per week which now go back into network and would previously have gone to waste.

Now, selected from over 700 entries worldwide, they are being honoured at a prestigious ceremony in the House of Lords, London, on November 17, 2025. The award not only recognises their accomplishments but also positions iForce as a leader in sustainability.

Following this achievement iForce has also been invited to accept Green World Ambassador status, which includes the opportunity to have its award-winning project published in The Green Book, the leading international reference on environmental best practice. They are also invited to represent their country at the Green World Environment Awards, the premier international showcase of environmental leadership.

Liam McElroy, CEO of Culina Group said: “To see the recognition being gained by iForce for this significant transformation is extremely satisfying for the whole group. It reflects our commitment to being at the forefront of sustainable practices in the logistics sector and is further evidence of the steps we are taking to drive change in our industry.”

The iForce sustainability strategy is aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and supported by a cross-functional project team within Culina Group. The company actively engages with customers, suppliers, and industry experts to share best practices and foster a culture of environmental stewardship.

The International Green Apple Awards are run by The Green Organisation, an independent, non-profit group founded in 1994 to recognise, reward, and promote environmental excellence worldwide.

Culina Group, the UK’s largest privately owned logistics supply chain partner, is proud to announce that its subsidiary, Fowler Welch, has won the Environmental and Sustainability Award at the 2025 TCS&D Awards.

The TCS&D Awards celebrate excellence in the temperature-controlled storage and distribution sector. The Environmental and Sustainability category recognises organisations that demonstrate measurable progress in reducing their environmental footprint through innovation, leadership, and long-term commitment.

Fowler Welch’s win reflects its, and the groups, outstanding contribution to sustainable logistics and our ambitious goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050. Through a series of practical and forward-thinking initiatives, the business has significantly reduced carbon emissions and improved energy efficiency across its operations.

At its Spalding warehouse, Fowler Welch has delivered a major transformation by installing a state-of-the-art ammonia refrigeration plant, replacing outdated HFC systems. Ammonia, a natural refrigerant with zero ozone depletion potential and low global warming potential, has dramatically improved cooling performance while reducing the site’s environmental footprint.

Wider additional measures include the introduction of LED lighting, insulated rapid doors, and air barriers, as well as the creation of insulated office spaces to reduce heat loss. These upgrades have reduced daily power consumption from 3,150 kWh to approximately 1,000 kWh—resulting in a daily carbon saving of around 382 kg, equivalent to planting thousands of trees.

Commenting on the award, Liam McElroy, Chief Executive Officer at Culina Group said:
“We are delighted to see Fowler Welch recognised for its leadership in sustainability. This achievement reflects our Group-wide commitment to investing in innovative solutions that reduce our environmental impact and set new standards for responsible logistics.”

Culina Group’s sustainability strategy is aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and supported by cross-functional teams across its businesses. The Group continues to explore renewable energy sources, smart systems, and collaborative partnerships to drive progress and inspire positive change throughout the supply chain.

The Pallet Network (TPN), a leading provider of palletised freight distribution and part of Culina Group, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Conroy as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Underpinned by his 30 years’ experience in express distribution, including CEO roles at Palletforce, EV Cargo and Kinaxia Logistics, Michael’s leadership will be instrumental in driving TPN’s strategic vision forward.

That includes driving operational efficiencies across the network, spearheading digital transformation and ensuring TPN delivers outstanding service alongside an exceptional customer experience.

His appointment marks a significant milestone for TPN as it continues to pursue ambitious growth plans and leverage its collective strength through greater Partner collaboration.

Michael Conroy, CEO of The Pallet Network, said: “I am delighted and honoured to take up the new role of CEO. TPN is a fantastic business with great colleagues and Partners helping to make it a special organisation. I am incredibly optimistic about our future together and look forward to playing my part in the next exciting chapter of TPN’s story. Every Partner plays a vital role in our collective success and it’s essential we drive forward together to deliver an exceptional service to our customers that we can all be proud of.”

Commenting on the appointment, Fabian Koehler, Deputy CEO of Culina Group, said:

“Michael’s significant experience will bring valuable insight into the opportunities ahead for TPN. As we mark 25 years of success, the business is entering an exciting new phase. Under Michael’s leadership, we are confident in our ability to strengthen the network and evolve our operations to meet the changing needs of our customers.”

Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, TPN remains the UK’s largest network by Partner volume and a benchmark for collaborative logistics. The business is built on a foundation of Partner success and outstanding customer service, empowering both Partners and customers to grow with confidence.

Culina Group raises over £40,000 to support Hope House Children’s Hospices

Culina Group is proud to announce that it has raised over £40,000 in support of Hope House Children’s Hospices, a charity providing specialist care to children with life-threatening conditions and vital support to their families.

Hope House is a lifeline for more than 750 families across Shropshire, Cheshire and across Wales, helping every local child with a life-threatening condition live their very best life from diagnosis.

Led primarily by the team at Culina’s Market Drayton site, the fundraising total is the result of a wide range of initiatives carried out by Culina Group employees over the years.

One standout effort saw three Culina colleagues take part in a sponsored drive from Calais to Barcelona in a £200 Ford Mondeo Estate, raising over £1,000 while completing a series of fun challenges along the way. On-site charity events also contributed to the funds, including the annual Culina Group Charity Golf Day, the auction of FA Cup tickets which raised more than £1,000, as well as donating sacks of toys to the hospice at Christmas.

To mark the milestone, Culina Group CEO Liam McElroy visited Hope House, in Oswestry, accompanied by Michelle Anderson, who has led fundraising efforts within the company. During the visit, they toured the facilities and saw firsthand the difference the hospice makes to children and families.

They were also shown how donations directly support meaningful initiatives within the hospice, such as creating peaceful garden spaces for reflection and providing memory bears to families coping with loss.

As a heartfelt gesture during the visit, the children presented Liam and Michelle with a framed picture to thank Culina Group for the generous support and funds raised.

Liam McElroy, Culina Group CEO said: “It’s been inspiring to see our colleagues come together over the years to support such a meaningful cause for a local charity. Hope House provides extraordinary care and comfort to families in their most difficult moments, and we’re honoured to contribute to their mission and help give back to those in a time of need.”

Dawn Ball, Area Fundraiser at Hope House, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone at Culina Logistics for their outstanding support and commitment to Hope House Children’s Hospices over the years. Reaching the incredible milestone of £40,000 is a testament to their generosity, teamwork, and dedication to making a real difference for local children and families. Thank you for standing with us and helping local children with life-threatening conditions to live their best life.”

Culina Group will continue its fundraising efforts for Hope House Children’s Hospices, which needs to raise £10 million each year to continue providing specialist and vital nursing care and practical and emotional support to children and families.

We’re proud to announce that our Port Salford site has once again achieved excellence by retaining its AA Grade in the 2025 BRCGS Storage and Distribution audit, conducted in June—with zero non-conformances for the second consecutive year.

This remarkable result reflects the unwavering dedication, professionalism, and high standards consistently demonstrated by the entire team. It’s a clear testament to the culture of quality and continuous improvement embedded across the site.

The BRCGS Standard is designed to reflect industry best practices and drive ongoing improvement through robust, risk-based product safety management systems. Its goal is to ensure the quality and safety of products during storage and distribution, while maintaining customer confidence through rigorous audit and certification processes.

Mark Stanton, General Manager at Port Salford, shared his appreciation:

“I’m delighted with the accreditation and the standards achieved by the team. The auditor’s closing comments were particularly pleasing and reflected positively on both the local and wider support teams for their consistent efforts in maintaining high standards at every level.”

A huge congratulations to everyone at Port Salford for this outstanding achievement. Your hard work, commitment, and attention to detail continue to set the benchmark for excellence across the business.

Deputy Group CEO also confirmed

Culina Group has today announced the appointment of Liam McElroy to the role of CEO for Culina Group, and Chief Strategy Officer Fabian Koehler has been confirmed as Deputy Group CEO of Culina Group.

McElroy has held various senior roles across the logistics and travel sector including Chief Executive, Managing Director and Vice President with companies including GXO, Swissport, Wincanton and DHL. He joins Culina Group having recently completed senior interim roles within the logistics industry.

Fabian Koehler, Chief Strategy Officer has been appointed as Deputy Group CEO of Culina Group. He brings strong management and logistics expertise from his tenure at Kuehne + Nagel, where he held several senior leadership roles, most recently as Senior Vice President of their Road Logistics division for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

In this role, Fabian will report directly to Liam and work with him to deliver the Group’s strategy and embedding its plans for long-term growth.

Culina Group has experienced many successful years of growth across its different business units. In early 2024, the business identified that it needed to evolve in order to respond to the changing demands of its customers and the markets it serves. The logistics company subsequently commenced a journey to refocus its business under 3 strategic pillars: Chilled, Ambient and Co-packing.

Alastair Isbister took on the role of CEO, Ambient in 2024. Steve Winwood continues as CEO, Chilled and Andrew Dawson remains in the role of CEO, Co-packing.

The appointment of a new Group CEO and Deputy Group CEO represent a pivotal milestone as the 3PL specialist continues to strengthen its business proposition as one of the leading logistics companies in the UK.

Theo Müller Junior, Chair of Culina Supervisory Board, said: “Liam’s significant experience across the logistics, business-to-business and retail sectors will add further valuable insight into the opportunities open to Culina, as we continue to align our business operations to the evolving needs of our customers.’

‘I’m delighted to welcome Fabian into this new role, where he will work closely with Liam to deliver the Group’s strategic transformation programme and embed our plan for long-term growth and success. We already have a wealth of knowledge and experience throughout the Culina Group business, and I’m delighted to top that up with these key appointments. The business is in an exciting phase and ready to continue to build on its success.”

McElroy will join Culina Group on Monday 24th February with Koehler taking on his new role with immediate effect.

Are you considering your next steps within education? Are you looking to advance your academic journey? Culina Group have two brand new and exciting programmes that could be perfect for you! Our Graduate Programmes and Undergraduate Degree Apprenticeship Programme offer unique opportunities for professional and personal growth; paving the way for future career success. Whether you are finishing High School, changing careers altogether or searching for further development after your Degree, here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating these paths within Culina Group…

Undergraduate Degree Apprenticeship Programme: Building Solid Foundations

An Undergraduate or Batchelor’s Degree can often serve as the first step not just in higher education, but also in building a career. Degree Apprenticeships are no different! Culina Group are proud to offer their first Undergraduate Programme, giving you an opportunity to earn while you learn (and have your Degree paid for). No student debt – what a bonus!

Our Level 6 Supply Chain Leadership Professional Degree Apprenticeship (with BA (Hons) Professional Practice in Supply Chain Leadership) will span three to four years, providing you with a broad academic grounding, while giving you the opportunity to put your new skills to practice in the workplace. You will experience all aspects of Supply Chain including Operations, Financial Management and developing Leadership skills, in addition to gaining a deep understanding of concepts and their practical applications.

As a Degree Apprentice you will also have the chance to work on live projects, giving you the opportunity to showcase your skills and make a real impact on our business. This will not only enhance your learning but also provide you with valuable experience that will set you apart from others. You will also get to experience ‘normal’ University life, by attending a handful of face-to-face classes at your University Campus throughout your programme. Our Undergraduate programme has a flexible location within commutable distance of one of our sites.

Desired skills:

• Analytical mind-set and problem solving abilities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Full valid UK driving license and your own vehicle
• Flexible and adaptability to thrive in a fast paced logistics environment

Desired Qualifications:

• GCSE Maths and English Language at Grade C, Grade 4 or above
• 112 UCAS points (BBC)

For more information, please contact the Culina Group Emerging Talent Team at apprenticeships@culina.co.uk or click here to apply.

Graduate Programme: Building and Specialising

Graduate Programmes typically offer advanced education in specific fields, and are ideal for those seeking specialisation and career advancement. Our Graduate Programmes include time to meet with your fellow Graduates, and meet others within the wider Culina Group. We believe it is very important to widen your network, and work together with other Business Units.

Here’s what you can expect from the four available Graduate Programmes within Culina Group:

Chilled Operations Graduate Programme:

• A two-year rotational programme with either Culina Logistics or Fowler Welch (dependent upon location), covering all aspects of Chilled Operations. You will experience a variety of roles within Warehousing and Transport, ultimately working as a Team Leader.

IT Graduate Programme:

• A two-year rotational programme covering all aspects of Group IT, including but not limited to; Systems, Business Analysis, Security and Risk, PMO and Project Management.

CAM Graduate Programme:

• A two-year rotational programme based at Culina House, Warrington (some travel to other CAM sites may be required), covering all aspects of fleet management. You will be given exposure to processes regarding vehicle allocations, removal/ de-hire of old kit, vehicle insurance, vehicle compliance/ Operator Licencing.

IPS Graduate Programme:

• A two-year rotational programme covering all aspects if IPS Operations (the UK’s largest Co-Pack provider) providing agile and innovative solutions for their customers. You will gain exposure to accredited and retailer approved manufacturing and co-packing facilities; including but not limited to full pallet displays, flow-wrapping, and labelling.

Recruitment for our 2025 cohort will be starting in Summer 2024, so keep your eyes peeled for updates! For more information, please contact the Culina Group Emerging Talent Team at apprenticeships@culina.co.uk

In July at the Motor Transport Awards 2019, the “Oscars” for the UK transport and logistics industry, Culina Group was recognised with the prestigious award that is universally accepted to be the pinnacle of UK Logistics – “Motor Transport – “Haulier of the Year” – 2019”. Culina Group CEO Thomas van Mourik, and Company Secretary Nigel Jury were presented with the coveted accolade by Motor Transport Editor Steve Hobson, and TV Celebrity Omid Djalili. At the same event Thomas van Mourik was inducted into the – Motor Transport – “Hall of Fame” – in recognition of his “individual contribution to the development of the UK Logistics Sector”.

At the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) Awards 2019 a week earlier, Culina Group were recognised with the associations leading accolade – “UKWA – Logistics Service Provider of the Year 2019” – confirming its position in this landmark year as a premier operator in UK Logistics. At its 75th anniversary celebration lunch at The Dorchester, Park Lane, attended by over 400 guests, including guest of honour, The Princess Royal – Princess Anne, the UKWA recognised Culina Group as “a highly professional motivated and well led company that demonstrates best practice and total commitment to UKWA principles of working safely, ethically, and profitably”.

Culina Group picked up the “RHA – Livery of the Year Award 2019” at the Road Haulage Association (RHA) 75th anniversary celebration lunch at The Hilton Park Lane. The powerful, clean, dynamic trailer livery was designed and introduced specifically in celebration of the Culina Group 25th Anniversary. Its “eye catching use of logo and overall dramatic impact” really impressed the judges and was recognised at the event attended by the elite of the road haulage sector and included special guests Sports Personality Kevin Keegan and Minister of State for Immigration Caroline Nokes.

Finally, at the recent TCS&D (Temperature Controlled Strorage and Distribution) Awards, Culina Group CEO Thomas van Mourik was recognised for his personal contribution to the UK logistics industry. Thomas was awarded the “Outstanding Leadership Award”. It’s been a fantastic year so far for Culina Group, a business who truly are “In it for the long haul” – as it has been since 1994!

“We are very proud to have been awarded this accolade” said Thomas van Mourik, Culina Group CEO “It is real testimony to the dedication of our staff across the business and to pick up this award during our 25th Anniversary Year is fantastic!”

“I ain’t a special human being,” Fury said afterwards, “I’m just a normal man. But with the right help and the right guidance, anyone can turn their life around.”

It was a special performance though, as Fury confirmed that his triumph over his mental health demons far outweighed his comeback in the ring that night. He wasn’t afraid to ask for help when he needed it the most.

Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK suffer from some form of mental health issue every year. That means that someone in your life could be suffering right now whether you know it or not. There is no specific type of person that mental health issues can affect and the contributing factors are as varied as those who suffer. Work, family or money stress, social anxiety or physical trauma are just some of the more common catalysts to becoming unwell.

Everyone and anyone, from those of us working 9-5 to ‘A list’ stars can all be affected in one way or another. It’s not just Tyson Fury that is making his condition public. Many more celebrities are advocates for mental health awareness and are campaigning to open a dialogue with those suffering, to show they are not alone in their battle.

That being said, try to be mindful if you notice a friend or family member acting ‘out of sorts’ for a prolonged period of time. If you are able to notice the signs early, their condition may be more manageable, allowing the sufferer to recover faster. The symptoms of some mental health issues can be found below:

• Confused thinking

• Prolonged depression, sadness or irritability

• Feelings of extreme highs and lows

• Excessive fears, worries and anxieties

• Social withdrawal

• Dramatic changes in eating or sleeping habits

• Strong feelings of anger

• Strange thoughts (delusions)

• Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations)

• Growing inability to cope with daily problems and activities

• Suicidal thoughts

• Numerous unexplained physical ailments

• Substance use

Up to 10% of the UK population will experience depression at some point in their lifetime. Statistics show that mixed anxiety and depression is the most common disorder in the UK with 7.8% of people meeting the diagnosis criteria. Mixed anxiety and depression has been estimated to cause one fifth of days lost from work in the UK.

A promising development in terms of mental health is the changing attitude towards mental illness. A public campaign called ‘Time to Change’ was launched in 2009 by leading charities Mind and Rethink. To make the subject more approachable. They hold a ‘Time To Talk’ day each year to raise awareness and encourage people to take action, whether on social media or by visiting a friend ‘in need’ for a chat. This year’s event will be held on the 7th of February.

A little effort from the people around those suffering can go a long way to show that they are not alone in their recovery. The latest results from the ‘National Attitudes to Mental Illness Survey’, released in 2018, showed that people’s attitudes towards mental illnesses improving. Which we can all agree is a good thing.

Thankfully there are also several excellent online sources and helplines for those in real need. The links below provide invaluable support and guidance for a wide range of issues –

www.nhs.uk

www.mind.org.uk

www.mentalhealth.org.uk

www.mqmentalhealth.org

www.rethink.org

www.sane.org

Mental illness is usually not straightforward, and sometimes not recognised or accepted at all. But as times are changing, we are all becoming more aware and understanding of the problem. We are learning how to deal with these issues. Physical injuries require a Doctor, so why not mental ones too?

With many conditions now being widely recognised by the general public and support more readily available, hopefully gone are the days of being told to ‘snap out of it’ and ‘pull yourself together’. Mental health is a real and accepted challenge for many people and we need to help where we can.

At Culina Group, we genuinely empathise with any member of staff who may be experiencing significant mental health challenges. We as a business want it to be known that they are not alone, that it is ok to discuss these problems, and that we are ready to help find support. If you feel that you need support please speak to your Line Manager or HR representative (Tracie-Anne Andrews) in the first instance or contact one of the services listed above or below.

Culina Group also provide the benefit of immediate access to a free and confidential telephone counselling and legal information service that operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to all of our employees via the ‘hapiBenefits’ scheme.

The service’s experienced, professional counsellors can help with a wide range of problems at any time of the day or night. The counsellor will ensure that you have the time to talk through your concerns and feelings, helping you to clarify the practical and emotional issues and providing information when appropriate. No information on any calls will be fed back to the company unless there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others.

Staff are able to access an online support web portal, filled with useful information to help them with balancing their home life, work life and emotional health. Please ask your Line Manager or HR representative for details in confidence.

The web portal also includes a ‘Health Risk Assessment’ tool, which will provide employees with a comprehensive assessment of your overall health.

Culina Group are nothing without our staff and we are here to aid with support through any tough times you may be facing.