As we prepare to close the book on 2024, this year has been one of positive growth for M&H Carriers. From expanding our reach with cutting-edge new facilities to deepening our commitment to the communities we serve, 2024 has been a year of progress, collaboration, and resilience. Although we can’t ignore the carnage caused by one particularly unexpected surprise – but I’ll get to that later!
While our achievements are plentiful, they have come with their share of challenges.
Like many in the logistics industry, we’ve had to navigate several obstacles this year – from market closures and inflationary pressures to ongoing labour shortages. Of these, the rising fuel costs and the shortage of skilled drivers were most significant for the team.
Fuel prices surged to record highs earlier this year, driven by geopolitical tensions and ongoing supply chain disruptions. This naturally placed immense strain on operational costs, forcing us to adapt and recalibrate in real-time. Simultaneously, the driver shortage, already a long-standing issue, reached critical levels in 2024, and the end of free movement from the EU further compounded the challenge.
Operating in the rural and remote regions of the Scottish Highlands and Islands, we found ourselves in direct competition for a shrinking pool of qualified drivers. The need for skilled drivers has never been more pressing, and as demand continues to rise, the struggle to attract and retain top talent remains one of our most formidable challenges.
In response, we’ve taken bold steps to secure our future. We invested £250,000 in our Aberdeen operations, ensuring we remain a leading force in the region’s logistics sector. This commitment not only strengthens our infrastructure but reinforces our position as a dependable partner, helping us serve the north of Scotland more effectively.
The opening of our new Perth hub in September also stands as a defining milestone for M&H Carriers. Situated at the ‘gateway to the north of Scotland,’ this state-of-the-art facility – spanning 15,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space and 1.5 acres of yard – has restructured our capacity and expanded our reach across the country. With the addition of 10 new vehicles and the creation of numerous jobs, the Perth hub is a critical component of our growth strategy.
Additionally, to address the driver shortage, we’re launching a C1 driver recruitment campaign in January 2025 that will fund C1 driver training for newcomers to the industry. By investing in talent from the ground up, we want to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled drivers who will hopefully meet the sector’s evolving demands.
Furthermore, we’ve also introduced a transparent pricing model, simplifying our engagement with customers. By offering clear and straightforward pricing, we foster a greater sense of trust and clarity, empowering our clients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. This commitment to honesty and transparency strengthens the partnerships we’ve worked so hard to build.
Elsewhere in the business, the community has always been at the core of what we do, and 2024 has been no different as our partnerships and support for local organisations grow stronger this year.
We were honoured to partner with Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC (ICTFC), offering free delivery on their online orders at a time when the club was in crisis. This collaboration was more than just logistical support; it was about aligning our values with the club’s, strengthening our community connections, and contributing to the local economy and the institutions we hold dear.
Another highlight of the year was our sponsorship of the Highland Rugby Club Under-14s team on their journey to London. We’ve always been proud to support young athletes across various sports, and it was a privilege to back this team. Their achievements are a true reflection of teamwork, determination, and community support.
Away from the sporting world, this year, we also continued our partnership with Developing the Young Workforce at Glen Urquhart High School, where we worked closely with S4 pupils to develop essential interview skills. Investing in the future of our young people is an investment in the future of the Highlands, and we’re proud to play an active role in preparing the next generation for their careers.
Each of these initiatives – and the many others we have supported this year and previously – reflects our belief in building a more sustainable, prosperous future for our communities. By investing in local talent and organisations, we’re not just strengthening our company – we’re contributing to the broader economic and social fabric of the Highlands.
But that’s enough of all the business chat because, despite all the focus on growth and community this year, it’s important to acknowledge the lighter moments, too. And no year-end reflection would be complete without mentioning the unexpected guest at our Glasgow depot.
Now affectionately known as our Fantastic Mr Fox, at the time he caused a bit of a stir. This cheeky, bushy-tailed intruder cut phone lines, disrupted operations, and brought chaos to the business – it was quite an accomplishment for this cunning little burglar!
Although he’s not exactly the model employee, our Fantastic Mr Fox’s antics reminded us that, in this business, we must always be ready for the unexpected and that no two days are ever quite the same!
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re focused on refining our processes, empowering our team, and continuing to grow. With exciting new partnerships like the one with DHL eCommerce UK, which has already seen fantastic results in the Highlands and Islands, the future looks bright.
