Logistics company Wincanton has been awarded a five-year contract to manage a large part of building materials firm Marshalls' national transport network.

Under the deal, Wincanton will operate Marshalls' entire Landscape Products fleet, moving over 3.5 million tonnes of products per year. It will also manage the transport operations for Marshalls' Landscape Products and Brick & Masonry subcontractors.

Mortars & Screeds, Civils & Drainage and Landscape Protection, alongside yard operations, will remain in-house at Marshalls.

This first time outsourcing of Marshalls logistics operations will see up to 300 staff transfer over to Wincanton. The partnership builds on Wincanton's existing deal with Marley Roofing Products, part of the Marshalls group.

Wincanton said its digital EyeQ platform will underpin an optimised and data-led transport solution aimed at delivering improved cost and sustainability outcomes for Marshalls.

Carl Hanson, Managing Director, Group Transport, at Wincanton said: “It is testament to the quality of our people and innovative technology that Marshalls has chosen to outsource its national transport network to Wincanton. EyeQ, our digital transport platform, will deliver quality, cost and sustainability benefits for Marshalls own and subcontractor vehicles.

“We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues to Wincanton, as we accelerate Marshalls’ progress towards becoming the UK's leading manufacturer of sustainable solutions for the built environment.”

Simon Bourne, Chief Operating Officer, Marshalls plc, said: “As our business has grown, so has the volume and complexity of items that we deliver and we’re at a point in our journey where we need to look at the future of this specialist area.

“Wincanton are a leading supply chain partner for many of the UK’s most recognisable brands and, as a long-term supplier to our roofing division Marley, we have an excellent opportunity to extend a highly successful relationship.

“By partnering with Wincanton, we will be taking advantage of their programme to invest in diesel-alternative fuel options, contributing to our sustainability goals. We’re also supporting our drive for continuous improvement for our customers, including improving delivery times, access to more specialist vehicles and consistent delivery tracking.”