Latest News

Come along and see us at Peterborough Truckfest this bank holiday weekend.

Chiltern have a stand on the perimeter of the arena.

We are delighted to announce a new partnership with Corby based Orchard House Foods, the UK's market leader in ready-to-eat fresh fruit products, fresh fruit patisserie and drinks for leading UK retailers. The agreement which commenced on 3^rd January, will see Chiltern providing transport operations for their non-retail food service section of the business throughout the UK.

Whilst price is an important factor, Orchard House were looking for a logistics partner able to provide a high level of service and selected Chiltern due to our commitment to delivering such standards.

We are proud to be working with Orchard House as we share the same beliefs when it comes to providing a quality service to our respective customers.

With an aim to improve productivity and reduce potential errors, we have installed the Zetes Voice Picking System. At Chiltern we understand the importance of managing the supply chain utilising the latest technology. We currently use RF Bar Code Scanning to provide detailed product accountability and have on-line access for stock enquiries. Therefore, a move onto a voice controlled picking system was the next logical step.  The system offers numerous advantages over conventional order picking methods such as paper or RF picking. 

Voice picking ensures correct and timely orders by allowing operators to focus 100% on their job by:

·         receiving and confirming orders via a mobile voice terminal and headset

·         using voice - the most natural interface

·         having their hands and eyes free to pick the orders

·         random check digits at the picking locations to avoid mistakes

·         should an error occur, the system requires an immediate correction

You can learn more about the Zetes Voice Picking System at:

 http://www.zetes.co.uk/en/supply-chain-and-mobility-solutions/by-process/order-picking/voice-picking

Here are the latest developments to our new ambient warehouse.

Chiltern has, at its core, a great team of nearly 100 people and we recognise that they are our most valued assets. Many staff members, including drivers, are long-term contributors to the company's success and we are proud of our conscientious workforce and what they have all achieved.

We encourage younger staff members to establish long-term careers at Chiltern through support, encouragement, training and responsibility.  As a company we feel staff development is essential. We are very proactive and supportive and invest in our people so they can develop their skills which benefit both the individual and Chiltern.

Chiltern is extremely pleased that two members of our operational staff have been working towards an NVQ in warehousing. Steve Winterman has completed his syllabus and Aaron Woods is 90% complete and just has to sit a two-hour exam to gain his certificate. Well done to both of them.

Chiltern have recently added 2 new Mercedes Actros tractor units to their fleet. The 6 x 2 450 BHP units were supplied by Orwell Trucks of Norwich. Speaking of the new vehicles Chiltern's Managing Director, Paul Jackson said "The new Actros' are the latest generation of trucks. Fuel consumption is key to our operation and this new model returns more miles per gallon than its predecessor. The truck is excellent to drive and has a presence on the road.” 

One of the new vehicles loading in Shoreham Harbour.

When Chiltern moved to our Peterborough site in 2002, it was immediately identified as a location for future expansion. We initially decided to lease an existing warehouse for ambient storage within close proximity instead of undergoing the disruption and cost of construction. However, as a rapidly expanding business, a larger on site ambient warehouse is instrumental in supporting our growth.

The new warehouse, which will be operational by November 2012, will have the capacity for 3,500 pallets. This major expansion to the existing 13,000 frozen and 1,500 chilled pallet spaces already on the site will create a multi temperature facility to cater for the growing needs of our customers.

The first clearly visible steps towards our new warehouse can be seen below.

Chiltern are pleased to announce the appointment of Graham Phillips in the newly created role of Operations Manager (nightshift). With the importance of the nightshift activities we have created this appointment to further bolster and support this shift,cementing the company’s commitment to deliver the very best service.

Graham has been involved in the transport industry for over 18 years and brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge at all levels and therefore well placed to successfully lead our night time operations forward.  As well as ensuring the Chiltern fleet continues to operate effectively and efficiently, Graham will oversee all aspects of the company’s night operations.

Having started work as a driver before progressing into planning and management, we are confident that Graham’s expertise will be of tremendous value to Chiltern. He has a sound understanding of the challenges faced by a growing fleet.

In addition, we have also recently welcomed 2 new members of the administration team. They will be responsible tele-ordering on behalf of our customers, one of the bespoke services we provide and providing administrative support, particularly in the areas of order booking.

Chiltern have successfully maintained the BRC certification for the fifth consecutive year.