Palletways UK has received a Gold Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) for the Armed Forces Covenant and its support of defence. The accolade comes less than a year since the logistics giant officially signed up to pledge its support to members of the Armed Forces community and their transition to civilian life. Palletways is one of just nine companies in the logistics and transportation sector to have received Gold status in 2023.¹
Awarded by the Ministry of Defence, the ERS Award formally recognises organisations that actively support the Armed Forces community, including reservists, veterans, spouses, cadet force adult volunteers and cadets.
Service leaver Toby Rhodes-Matthews, Palletways Group Service Quality Coordinator, was an instrumental team member of the company’s Gold accreditation submission. He said: “This is a remarkable achievement. In little over a year since we signed the Armed Forces Covenant, Palletways has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Armed Forces community and surpassed expectations by receiving the highest accolade a company can receive. Achieving Gold is a testament to our shared values and our determination to make a positive difference in the lives of those who have served our country.”
Maggie Williamson, General Manager of Service Excellence, was a WRAC Sergeant and works with Toby and the wider team to promote the opportunities Palletways offers to service people. She comments: “Returning to civilian life was scary but everyone was so welcoming and friendly. More than 18 years on, it’s still a great honour to work here and I’m so proud of our Gold status.”
The Palletways team are midway through attending 14 service leavers recruitment fairs this year and has also inspired several network members to sign the Covenant themselves.
Rob Gittins, Managing Director, Palletways UK, added: “We couldn’t be prouder of our Gold Award, which complements Operation Clearview, our fully funded transition programme for service leavers, and the ex-military recruitment fairs we attend across the country. The skills and experience of the Armed Forces community add value to our business and it’s a privilege to welcome ex-force personnel to our team.”
