News

Bibby Distribution is claiming leadership in the development of automotive shared user, with a new contract from Suzuki GB.

The three-year contract for motorcycle distribution started last week and turns a dedicated system for another unnamed motorcycle firm, into shared user. The work was being done by NYK.

Bibby beat five other bidders in a tender process and used the example of its shared  user parts system for vehicles.

Suzuki distribution manager Marianne Unsworth says: "Bibby was able to demonstrate a track record of developing pro-active cost-down initiatives." She is expecting process improvements, cost savings and a wider range of delivery services for dealers.

Products will be trunked overnight from Milton Keynes to Bibby outbases at Avonmouth, Leeds and Glasgow and are delivered the next day, off-loading with Moffett Mounty forklifts.

Bibby account director (automotive) John Jones says: "the time is right and people's confidence is right" for a growth in shared user.

The motorcycle industry used to use P&O's shared user system. It lost its way and customers made their own arrangements. One firm is experimenting with direct deliveries from the Continent.