FPUA & BIFA Christmas Charity Ball raises £11,000 for local causes Strong industry backing brings together 250 guests to support Brave Futures and EACH

FPUA & BIFA Christmas Charity Ball raises £11,000 for local causes Strong industry backing brings together 250 guests to support Brave Futures and EACH

Dec 16, 2025 | Ports, Uncategorized

16.12.2025 | Ports

FPUA & BIFA Christmas Charity Ball raises £11,000 for local causes

Strong industry backing brings together 250 guests to support Brave Futures and EACH.

The Felixstowe Port Users’ Association (FPUA) celebrates the success of this year’s FPUA & BIFA Christmas Charity Ball, which brought the ports and logistics community together at Milsoms Kesgrave Hall on Friday, 5 December, raising an impressive £11,000 for two local charities. The sold-out event welcomed 250 guests from across the sector, with funds raised in support of Brave Futures and East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The total will make a meaningful contribution to the vital services both charities provide to children, young people, and families across the region.

Jason Flower, Chair of the FPUA, said: “The Christmas Charity Ball remains a highlight on the regional logistics calendar, and this year’s event was no exception. The generosity displayed by our guests, sponsors, and donors was exceptional, and raising £11,000 for two vital local charities is something the entire industry can be proud of.”

The evening’s success was due to ongoing support from FPUA and British International Freight Association (BIFA) members, along with headline sponsors Fargo Group and MCP plc, whose backing was vital in delivering the event.

The FPUA also expressed gratitude to a broader group of sponsors and supporters, including KWL Logistics Ltd, Porttalk, Lombard Shipping plc, Multimodal Exhibition, 3PL, Keystone Law, and Grange Shipping Ltd, as well as many businesses that donated raffle prizes to aid fundraising on the night.

“Events like this demonstrate the strength of our industry when it comes together,” Jason added. “The collective support not only creates an enjoyable evening but also makes a real impact for charities doing exceptional work in our community.”

The FPUA and BIFA expressed their gratitude to everyone who attended, sponsored, donated, or contributed, highlighting the critical role the annual Charity Ball plays in bringing together the logistics sector while giving back to the region it serves.

The FPUA has confirmed the dates for its 2026 events: the FPUA Golf Day on Friday, 22 May, followed by the Christmas Charity Ball on Friday, 4 December 2026. Further details and booking information for both events will be provided in due course.

PAV Haulage prepares for new long-term base at London Gateway Logistics

PAV Haulage prepares for new long-term base at London Gateway Logistics

Dec 15, 2025 | Logistics, Uncategorized

15.12.2025 | Logistics

PAV Haulage prepares for new long-term base at London Gateway Logistics

Strategic relocation supports growth, sustainability and future expansion. 

DP World is preparing to welcome transport and logistics provider PAV Haulage to a state-of-the-art facility at its London Gateway Logistics Park.

In Q1 2026, PAV Haulage will move into the 94,000 sq. ft. LG94 facility on a 20-year lease, with plans to expand into an adjacent development plot. Once the expansion is complete, the facility will accommodate extensive HGV parking, supporting PAV Haulage’s commercial growth as they secure tenancy of their flagship unit at London Gateway.

Built to meet DP World’s extensive sustainability standards, LG94 has achieved an EPC Rating ‘A’ and a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certificate. It has been fitted with rooftop Solar PVs to supply renewable energy to PAV Haulage during their tenancy.

Alan Holland, Chief Executive Officer of DP World London Gateway Logistics Park, said: “Welcoming PAV Haulage to the Logistics Park reflects the ongoing confidence that new customers are placing in London Gateway. Thanks to our strategic location on the doorstep of the capital, tri-modal connectivity, and the expedited planning framework under the LDO, we are well-positioned to support PAV Haulage’s next chapter.

With over half of the Logistics Park now developed and occupied, we are eager to continue building a logistics ecosystem at London Gateway that fosters growth for our customers, creates new jobs, and future-proofs supply chains across the UK.

Dean Mills, Chief Executive Officer of PAV Haulage, said: “With this warehouse, we’re at the heart of smart logistics – and we’re only just getting started. London Gateway is the ideal base for the scale and ambition we’re bringing to the industry.”

The 9.25 million-square-foot Logistics Park has experienced significant growth recently, with half of its area now developed. Supporting thousands of on-site jobs, the park benefits from a 10-year LDO, which expedites new building applications to ensure the logistics hub’s ongoing expansion.

Image: Credit Miru Visuals, DP World London Gateway Logistics Park

Hive Connect and Supply Chain Supper Club join forces to strengthen logistics networking

Hive Connect and Supply Chain Supper Club join forces to strengthen logistics networking

Aug 19, 2025 | Networking, Uncategorized

18.8.2025 | Networking

Hive Connect and Supply Chain Supper Club join forces to strengthen logistics networking

Merging expertise to expand opportunities for the East of England’s logistics community. 

Two of the region’s best-known logistics networking communities are coming together. The Supply Chain Supper Club (SCSC), founded to provide in-person networking opportunities for supply chain operators in the East of England, will now run under the Hive Connect banner.

Created before the pandemic, the SCSC quickly became a valued forum for informal peer-to-peer discussion and thought-provoking talks from sector experts. But with a growing number of networking opportunities now available, SCSC organiser Murray Gibson believes the time is right to combine with Hive Connect.

Murray Gibson commented:

“The Supper Club was born out of a need to connect the industry locally at a time when there were very few in-person opportunities. Today, there are many more platforms to meet, share ideas and debate topical issues. By joining forces with Hive Connect, we can continue to deliver the same mix of insight and networking but with broader reach and even greater impact.”

Hive Connect, founded by James Miller and Paula Bellamy, is already well established for its programme of regular breakfast networking sessions at The Tudor Barn, Belstead, Ipswich, alongside special events such as the Hive Summer Buzz evening in September.

James Miller and Paula Bellamy said in a joint statement:

“We’re delighted to bring Murray and the Supply Chain Supper Club to Hive Connect. Hive Connect meetings are designed so that delegates can learn, network, and inspire the next generation of logisticians. Murray’s wealth of experience—particularly from a warehousing and distribution perspective—will add real value to our community. We’re especially pleased that Murray will be speaking at our forthcoming Summer Buzz event.”

Hive Connect typically hosts six events a year, bringing together professionals from across the logistics and supply chain sectors. The focus is on creating meaningful conversations, industry insights, and connections that benefit both individuals and businesses.

The next event, the Hive Connect Summer Buzz, will take place on Thursday, 4th September 2025 (6pm–11pm) at The Tudor Barn, Belstead. The evening will feature live music, a sit-down BBQ, guest speakers, and plenty of opportunity to network. Tickets are available at www.hiveconnect.me.

Image: L-R, Paula, James & Murray.

Cyber-Smart or Cyber-At-Risk? Fargo Systems urges hauliers to rethink cyber security

Cyber-Smart or Cyber-At-Risk? Fargo Systems urges hauliers to rethink cyber security

Jul 30, 2025 | Technology, Uncategorized

30.7.2025 | Technology

Cyber-Smart or Cyber-At-Risk? Fargo Systems Urges Hauliers to Rethink Cyber Security

Could your transport management system survive a cyber-attack?

With logistics firms increasingly in the firing line of cyber criminals – and big-name breaches hitting the likes of Knights of Old, M&S and the Co-op – Suffolk and Exeter-based software provider Fargo Systems is urging hauliers and forwarders to take action before the damage is done.

Recent data from the UK Government’s 2025 Cyber Security Breaches Survey revealed that 43% of UK businesses—approximately 612,000 firms—suffered a cyber breach in the past 12 months, with nearly 1 in 5 falling victim to actual cybercrime. Alarmingly, ransomware attacks have doubled year-on-year, now affecting around 1% of all businesses, roughly 19,000 firms. Phishing remains the most common attack method.

For the logistics and transport sector—an industry heavily reliant on interconnected systems and time-sensitive data—the risk is even greater. With ports, hauliers, and forwarders increasingly targeted, business continuity depends on robust cyber security.

As creators of the widely used TopsTMS® and CYMAN transport management systems, Fargo Systems plays a key role in the movement of containerised freight throughout the UK, Europe and globally. But while its hosted software solutions benefit from regular cyber protection, many users are still running these platforms on internal servers that lack the same safeguards.

“We test our cloud network security every quarter, using professional penetration testing,” says Jim Slade, Customer Success Director at Fargo Systems.

“We know that many customers who self-host simply don’t have the same controls in place. That’s why we’re encouraging all customers to review their hosting setup and speak with us about moving to our secure cloud environment.”

Fargo’s cloud-hosted platform includes:

  • Quarterly penetration testing
  • Built on the latest Microsoft Azure technology
  • Fully live Single Sign-On (SSO) for simplified secure login
  • Ongoing threat detection and proactive updates

With SSO now widely used across Fargo’s systems, customers benefit from centralised account control and seamless authentication, making it easier to manage access while strengthening defences.

“Cyber security used to be an IT department issue. Now, it’s a boardroom responsibility,” adds Jim.

“The more reliant the industry becomes on real-time data, the more crucial it is that systems are protected, monitored and regularly tested.”

As cyber threats increase in frequency and sophistication, forward-thinking logistics companies are already transitioning to managed cloud environments to mitigate risk and protect their operations.

Fargo Systems would welcome conversations with any haulier looking to review their current transport management systems and cyber security protocols. Whether you’re hosting in-house or considering a move to a more resilient, cloud-based setup, now is the time to act.

Exit with zero Capital Gains Tax? Why Employee Ownership Trusts could be the perfect answer

Exit with zero Capital Gains Tax? Why Employee Ownership Trusts could be the perfect answer

Jul 29, 2025 | Tax, Uncategorized

29.7.25 | Tax

Exit with zero Capital Gains Tax? Why Employee Ownership Trusts could be the perfect answer

How passing your business to your employees could be the smartest – and most tax-efficient – exit you’ll ever make.

For many business owners, the thought of selling up triggers two emotions: relief at reaching the finish line, and dread about how much HMRC will take off the top.

But here, Andrew Diver, Head of Tax at Beatons accountancy firm, explains that there’s an increasingly popular route that offers a tax-efficient, employee-friendly exit: the Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

Inspired by the John Lewis model, the EOT was introduced in the Finance Act 2014 to encourage business owners to pass their companies into employee hands.

The result? Tax incentives for the seller, motivated employees, and a legacy that keeps your business thriving.

What is it?

Think of it as passing the baton – but not to a single buyer, instead, to a trust that holds the business for the benefit of all employees.

The trust holds a controlling interest (minimum 50% of shares) but does not confer direct ownership on employees.

This means employees collectively hold a controlling interest, but there is no need to change your management structure unless you choose to.

What’s in it for you?

Quite a lot actually.

Primarily, there is Zero Capital Gains Tax when selling a controlling interest to an EOT. It also gives you the ability to pay tax-free annual bonuses of up to £3,600 per employee.

What’s more, you can retain continuity of management and protect your company culture.

To qualify, your business must:

  • Be a trading company or principal company of a trading group
  • Ensure all employees benefit equally (excluding new starters under 12 months or previous 5%+ shareholders)
  • Have the trust hold at least 50% of the share capital at all times

Key employees can be issued shares directly, provided the trust still owns at least 50% of the ordinary shares in the company. Those with direct shareholdings will probably not be able to receive dividends while the company repays the original shareholder, which will be the company’s priority.

Planning ahead

Before you embark on this step, remember that valuations are key.

Trustees must ensure the price paid doesn’t exceed market value and may consider third-party funding for quicker settlement.

The current directors often stay in place, reporting to trustees acting in the employees’ best interests.

Things to think through

An EOT can energise your workforce, adding extra incentive to perform well. After all, everyone benefits if they do.

But a strong management team at exit is key, together with good governance and clear communication.

If the company stops meeting EOT rules (e.g. ceases trading or doesn’t treat employees equally), HMRC could claw back tax benefits. And while sellers aren’t personally liable, trustees could be.

A final word

An Employee Ownership Trust isn’t right for everyone, but for those looking to exit with minimal tax and maximum legacy, it’s a powerful option.

At Beatons, we can guide you through every step – from initial valuations to trustee setup – to ensure a smooth, tax-efficient transition.

Get in touch to arrange a chat.

RHA Welcomes Industrial Strategy but urges government to go further on logistics

RHA Welcomes Industrial Strategy but urges government to go further on logistics

Jun 25, 2025 | Haulage, Uncategorized

25.6.2025 | Haulage

RHA Welcomes Industrial Strategy but Urges Government to Go Further on Logistics

New plan promises £600m for freight infrastructure and national Supply Chain Centre, but RHA calls for formal recognition of logistics as a foundational sector. 

The UK Government’s new Modern Industrial Strategy 2025, published earlier this week, has been broadly welcomed by the Road Haulage Association (RHA) — but with a firm call to go further in recognising the freight sector’s critical role in delivering growth.

Unveiled on 23 June, the long-term strategy includes a £600 million investment to unlock strategic logistics and industrial sites, the creation of a national Supply Chain Centre, and expanded support for supply chain innovation. These initiatives aim to address barriers to infrastructure development and enhance coordination of investment across freight corridors, intermodal hubs, and warehousing clusters.

The strategy also launches a Supply Chain Observatory to monitor vulnerabilities and build post-Brexit and post-pandemic resilience — a timely move given recent global disruption to goods movement.

The RHA welcomed the inclusion of logistics within the plan’s broader objectives to drive investment in growth sectors such as clean energy, construction, and advanced manufacturing. However, it expressed disappointment that the freight sector was not given “foundational sector” status despite its systemic importance.

“We’re pleased to see the strategy acknowledge the key role freight and logistics will play in maintaining the competitiveness of key growth-driving sectors,” said the RHA in a statement.

“Support for small businesses, including action on late payments and the new Business Growth Service, is also a welcome step.”

RHA Managing Director Richard Smith reinforced the call for further commitment:

“The Government rightly identified manufacturing, energy and construction as key growth areas. But logistics will be fundamental to delivering growth across all sectors. With 85% of UK goods moved by road freight, we’re the backbone of the economy.

“Every solar panel, every manufacturing component, every construction material — it all depends on our industry to get from A to B.”

Looking ahead, the RHA called on the government to invest in skills and infrastructure to meet growing freight demands:

“If we’re to get the 200,000 HGV drivers we need over the next five years, new technical excellence colleges must include provision for heavy vehicle driver and technician bootcamps,” continued Richard.

“And as we said in our infrastructure strategy reaction, a safe and fit-for-purpose road network must be a top priority if the UK is to hit growth targets.”

While the logistics sector was not designated as a standalone investment priority in the Industrial Strategy, it is expected to benefit from linked funding streams for SME support, advanced manufacturing zones, and clean energy industrial clusters, with the British Business Bank’s £4bn Growth Capital initiative set to unlock up to £16bn in public and private investment.

The strategy marks the first UK-wide industrial policy since 2017. It will be overseen by a new Industrial Strategy Council, tasked with driving long-term delivery across key sectors — and the freight infrastructure that underpins them.

Image: RHA

Source: RHA