A message from our CEO
Welcome to the latest and final edition of InReach of 2023.
2023 has seen further developments and milestones in our business, the Angus acquisition has gone very well, its important when we acquire a business we not only look to improve them but we look to adopt best practise when we see it, a great example of this is the creation of a new business division, Aprolis Training Solutions. Driver training has long been part of Aprolis UK, mainly focussed on internal training complimented by external customer training, what we have seen in Angus is a very professional and successful approach to customer training, not limited to simply fork lift truck driver training, we have decided to adopt this approach and create the new division, headed by Mark Whitelaw, formerly of Angus, now taking up an Aprolis UK role manging Aprolis Training Solutions, we have already secured training agreements with two of our major customers for 2024, I look forward to seeing how this area of our business develops.
Another part of our business that has changed in recent years is our distribution activities, this where we sell trucks and parts to sub-dealers, we are active in this area with our Brands CAT, Heli, Hangcha, Carer and KONE. Distribution now represents around 30% of our revenues, we sell high volumes of machines and deal with over 100 sub-dealers, we are the largest independent distributor of materials handling equipment in the UK. With recent appointments of Colin D’Arcy-Burt, Ben Afford and Tom Russell we are looking to not only grow but develop our offering to dealers to be considered the leader in this area.
Looking beyond the UK our parent company Monnoyeur continues to develop at pace, the software division, Arkance, recently acquired a large business with coverage in the US, India and Australia, we also now have a sister company in the UK, VinZero. Arkance specialise in industrial software and are the only global reseller of Autodesk.
Many people recently took part in the employee survey, this is a Monnoyeur survey that goes to all of the 9000 employees globally. Thank you to everyone who completed the survey, this is likely to become an annual activity, I would very much encourage everyone to complete the survey, it will help us shape our business. During 2024 you will hear a great deal more on this subject as we work with the managers to understand the results, discuss them with the wider teams and agree and implement actions plans, all with the aim of listening and improving what we do.
One part of the survey that came through loud and clear is the duplication of some processes or manual activities, I expect to see much progress in this area in 2024, we have to look to digitalise so much of what we do, not only to be more efficient and streamline what we do but importantly to make your working life easier.
I’d like to close by thanking everyone in our businesses and divisions, this year has seen more than a few challenges along the way, but throughout them I have seen time and time again a desire from so many people to support our customers and each other, always looking to do the right thing, thank you.
I would like to wish you and your families a wonderful Christmas and a happy, prosperous and healthy 2024.
Aprolis Updates
Staff Development
The management programme is a multi-year investment we are making to support and develop current and future managers in our business, to help them in their roles and how they in turn support their staff.
During 2023, 40 managers have successfully completed the first two phases of the programme: “Essential Management Skills” and “Performance Management Matters
The “Essential Management Skills” phase focused on equipping our managers with the fundamental skills needed to excel in their roles. It covered various topics such as communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and team leadership. Through interactive workshops and practical exercises, our managers gained insights into effective management techniques and strategies.
The “Performance Management Matters.” This phase concentrated on enhancing our managers’ ability to manage performance within their teams. From setting clear expectations and providing feedback to recognizing achievements and addressing challenges, our managers learned how to foster a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
The Management Development Programme is a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent within our organisation. We firmly believe that strong and capable leaders are the driving force behind a thriving organisation, and this programme will undoubtedly contribute to building a robust leadership pipeline.
Heavy Truck Vans
‘5 additional specialised service vans added to Impacts Heavy Truck Service Division.’
We are expanding our Heavy Truck Service Division with the addition of 5 more high-spec Mercedes Sprinter vans for the servicing of Konecranes and other large lift trucks. These five latest vehicles are being specially kitted out for this purpose and will help the expanding UK-wide service fleet in meeting the increased business demands of this critical market sector.
The tools and equipment these Heavy Lift Truck Service Vans carry is larger and more specialised than a Regular Service Van, they include, for example, heavy-duty torque wrenches, lubrication transfer kits, high-visibility lighting, and high-capacity inverters for powering and charging equipment. The vans’ customised racking and additional storage features have been designed specifically to hold all of this, along with containers for substantial volumes of oils and other fluids. We wanted high quality vehicles to allow our dedicated engineers to do the best job possible for our customers!
HC Forklift Dealer Day
Earlier this year, we hosted the HC Forklifts UK Dealer Day at The Heart of England Conference Centre in Coventry. We had an incredible turnout of 31 different dealers from around the UK and 74 people (excluding staff). This day enabled the dealers to meet with senior people from Hangcha, relevant staff from HC Forklifts UK and interact with one another. We were fortunate to have more than thirty pieces of equipment available on the day including the XH 16 tonne high voltage electric truck which attracted a lot of attention, and the newly launched XE Range. The dealers really enjoyed seeing and testing so many different pieces of equipment from the HC range especially the new trucks. Everyone had a great day and we received lots of positive feedback, it also generated a good number of orders.
Do you want to learn a bit more about Angus Lift Trucks?
Angus is a well-established business in Hinckley who fit very well into the Aprolis UK Group of Businesses.
Founded on strong principles, Angus Lift Trucks places a paramount focus on upholding the highest safety standards, providing exemplary customer service, and fostering a positive approach to employee training and development.
In 2018, following substantial growth, Angus relocated to its purpose-built 20,000 sq ft head office in Hinckley. Proudly standing as one of the largest independent dealerships in the UK, Angus offers comprehensive facilities, including a workshop for repair, rebuild, and paint, a showroom for finished products, a warehouse for used trucks, and a fully RTITB accredited operator training facility.
Their service offering includes – sales, hire, service and training across Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and East Midlands.
Visit their site for more information – https://anguslifttrucks.co.uk
40th Anniversary
Karl Mayers from Corby joins a small group of people to have reached this milestone, with Michael Williams from Bristol and Nigel Booker from Surrey having also completed 40 years of service.
New Starters
Please join us in welcoming the following new staff who joined us at the start of quarter three. As we are seeing continuous growth across our businesses, we thrive to invest more in our people to get the support we need.
Impact
Ethan Shannan
Barry Gates
Stephen Walker
Colin D’Arcy- Burt
Leanne Dennis
Aidan McBride
Keiran Andrew
Callum Aisbitt
Troy Bray
Annja Day
Charlie Cook
Mitchell Worker
Luke Stanmore
Justin May
Gemma McMahon
Grant Hardie
Harry Clark
Logan Patching
Lydia Osbourne-Davies
Colin Armit
Grant
Alexander Turner
Ian Wilkins
Richard Brinsden
Anna Burnett
Kieran Robinson
Adam Tilling
Jordon McPhee
Angus
Amy Carter
Henry Williams
Jade Glen
Leo Messina
| NAME | LOCATION | ROLE |
|---|---|---|
| Momina Mahmud | Nottingham | HR Administrator |
| Danny Pugh | Doncaster | Field Service Engineer |
| Karl Wright | Corby | Field Service Manager |
| Andrew Dare | Nottingham | Major Account Manager |
| Clive Burton | Birmingham | Field Service Engineer |
| Vincenzo Riccio | Corby | Field Service Engineer |
| Jonathan Cooke | Corby | Field Service Engineer |
| Mitchell Banfield | Kent | Trainee Parts Assistant |
| Ricky Davis | Bristol (Grant) | Field Service Engineer |
| Sandra Lukosiute | Nottingham | Credit Controller |
| Stephen Handley | Midlands | Parts Coordinator |
| Robin Witts | Bristol | Field Service Engineer |
| Daniel Irvine | Surrey | General Labourer |
| Stephane Kermath | Ipswich | Parts Coordinator |
| Luke How | Corby | Field Service Engineer |
| Robert Attfield | Corby - Systems 2 | General Labourer |
| John Mellon | Corby - Systems 2 | General Labourer |
| Mark Wilson | Nottingham | Procurement Manager |
| Nick Hewitt | Ipswich | Service Coordinator |
| Michael Doyle | Manchester | Field Service Engineer |
| Mark Hayton | Manchester | Field Team Leader |
| David Sugden | Hull | Service Manager |
Congratulations on being part of our team! The whole company welcomes you, and we look forward to a successful journey with you all! Welcome aboard!
Find out from Steve Long about his role in the film Rise of The Footsoldier: Vengeance
Find out from Steve Long about his role in the upcoming film.
Rise Of The Footsoldier: Vengeance, coming to Cinemas September 15th with a Premier in Marbella and Leicester Square London
How did you initially get invited into the role?
I Got invited down by a friend Terry Stone who played Tony Tucker one of the Essex Boys in previous films, to play a character with a Mohican.
What character did you play as?
”The Punk”
What is the film about?
The film was based on a true story about the 3 Essex boys who were part of a drug gang were murdered in their Range Rover. TATE (Craig Fairbrass) goes on a rampage to avenge his loyal and trusted foot soldier’s violent death. To track down the villain responsible, TATE ventures beyond his comfort zone of Essex and into the dark side of 90s Soho.
Will you be taking on any other roles?
Yes off the back off this, I’ve been given another role in the film Headhunter which is a based on the notorious Chelsea Football Firm along the lines of the film The Football Factory.
I’ve also been invited for a meet up with some of the guys who played in Guy Ritchie’s Film Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels late September hopefully about some more projects in the pipeline.
Watch the Trailer
Festive Markets To Visit
Leeds Christmas Markets
24th November – 22nd December
This year Leeds will have a large-scale traditional Christmas Market experience making use of different spaces across the city. Spaces all across the city centre will be hosting plenty of traditional market stalls and will include international and local traders. Lots of family-friendly events and experiences which will run alongside the market: including the popular Ice Cube outdoor skating rink and other themed attractions along with a fantastic range of Christmas shows, pantos and outdoor experiences on offer!
https://www.visitleeds.co.uk/winter-season/christmas-markets/
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
November 2023 – January 2024
Entry prices ranging from FREE to £7.50 per person
There will be something to suit everyone at Winter Wonderland. Our Street Food Village offers a variety of street eats and incredible craft beers, plus a Candy Cane Lane for all your sweet treat needs.
Full of festive fun for the little ones ….and those young at heart! We can’t wait to welcome you to Santaland this winter.
A magical one stop shop in the corner of Wonderland, this is the ultimate family day out.
A festive destination designed for the family to enjoy and escape from the hustle and bustle of the main event, where all days are merry and bright!
Visit the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland website for more info:
Winter Wonderland – Christmas in Nottingham
7th November – 31st December
Nottingham’s premier Christmas entertainment attraction will once again include the Ice Rink and Sky Skate ice path, plus the popular Ice Bar, Sur La Piste and Altitude ski bars.
Festive fun seekers can choose to skate around Old Market Square orr anyone who doesn’t feel like putting their skates on, there is a themed Ice Bar, kept at a chilling -10 degrees. Keep warm with the gloves and coats provided and enjoy a drink from an ice glass. This experience is not to be missed, so book early to avoid disappointment.
For younger visitors the much-loved toboggan ride and Frozen Swing will be back.
Visit the Winter Wonderland website for more info:
https://www.visit-nottinghamshire.co.uk/whats-on/winter-wonderland-christmas-in-nottingham-p480781
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
17th November – 21st December
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe.
The market is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, stunning location and handpicked high-quality exhibitors situated within the historic grounds.
The wooden chalets combined with the festive lighting, the sound of Christmas carols and the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon drifting in the air, visitors will be transported into a festive setting.
For those in search of an authentic Christmas experience, the Cathedral is at the heart of the City’s celebration, with its many Christmas services, carol concerts, events.
Visit the website for more info:
https://www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/event/christmas-market
Quote of the day
‘A month of lights, snow (for some), cosiness, and feasts; time to make amends and tie up loose ends; finish what you started and make your wishes come true.’
