Halfords, the UK’s leading retailer of automotive and cycling products, has appointed Wincanton as sole operator of its national transport contract.

The contract will go live this summer and will see Wincanton operate more than 80 vehicles as it oversees the distribution of the retailer’s goods from its flagship operational base in Coventry, as well as sites in Redditch, Bury, Mossend, Portbury and Greenford.

Halfords awarded the contract to Wincanton after working together to establish improved ways of working. During this period Wincanton also demonstrated its expertise in change management and provided guidance on how Halfords can manage its infrastructure to improve service and efficiency.

As the largest British logistics business, Wincanton will be focused on ensuring a seamless operational process, as well as reducing cost throughout the supply chain supporting Halfords’ recent growth and maintaining high customer service levels. 

Liam McElroy, Retail Managing Director at Wincanton, said: “From the beginning of our consultative relationship with Halfords, we have worked hard to develop a deep understanding of the business and build strong relationships. We’re excited to now be working so closely with such a well-known and well-loved British brand, ensuring its customers receive the highest levels of service and quality.

“Wincanton provides services for many of the major retailers in the UK and we’re acutely aware of the challenges they face in a multichannel era. Providing flexible and agile logistics support is a key focus for us, ensuring Halfords maintains its market leading position now and in the future.”