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The Freight Transport Association (FTA) Van Excellence Awards have recently taken place, and many owner drivers and operators have been recognised for their significant contributions to the industry. The ceremony was held in Birmingham at the Hyatt Regency Hotel earlier this month, and the prestigious awards were sponsored by various companies including Mercedes-Benz Vans, Brigade Electronics, Lex Autolease, AA, Hertz, Bott and Quartix. Those in the transport sector who went above and beyond for the sake of the industry have been commended for their great efforts. High Standards All-Round The head of vans and light commercial vehicles at the FTA, Mark Cartwright, stated that “it is important to recognise and reward the operators and drivers leading the way in excellence” since there are currently over 4.3 million courier vehicles navigating Britain’s roads. Administration, general courier work and owner driver jobs all play an important role in the industry, and this Van Excellence scheme has made a point of recognising individuals who have gone the extra mile. Cartwright said that the winning workers “place safety and compliance at the heart of their operations”, setting a high standard for those new to the transport sector. It was also noted that the champions showed excellence not only in their main role as an owner driver or courier worker, but also in various other aspects of work including employee welfare, commitment and community spirit. “Operators and drivers play an essential, and highly versatile, role…it is high time their contributions are acknowledged.” Celebrating the Winners The overall Van Excellence Champion award was given to Graham Davies from Electricity North West, and Hero of the Year went to John Barter from Ocado, with David Sturmey and Peter Williams (Qi Van Systems and James Hall Couriers) both highly commended. Cadent Gas was the champion for Helping the Community, and Scottish Water won awards for Making a Difference (sponsored by Lex Autolease) and Putting Drivers First (sponsored by Brigade Electronics). Other winning companies included The Clancy Group, Ame and McGinley Support Services, who were commended for Using Technology for Good and Winning at Wellbeing, sponsored by Hertz UK and Bott. As Mark Cartwright said, “there is so much more to van operation than simply vehicle maintenance”, and these champions of the transport industry have shown that they have truly got what it takes to be part of the courier sector. With their passion, skill and great commitment celebrated, new drivers and operators will be encouraged to rise to the challenge and be the best of the best. Whether you’re a fleet manager, an owner driver or a delivery worker, take inspiration from these exceptional workers – strive to see your name at the next FTA Van Excellence awards and motivate the next generation of couriers. Author Plate Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day owner driver jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 5,400 member companies are networked together through the Exchange to fill empty capacity, get new clients and form long-lasting business relationships.
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