GPI Distribution Limited (GPIDL) in the UK has achieved the FORS (Fleet Operators Recognition Scheme) Gold standard. FORS is a voluntary accreditation scheme for fleet operators that aims to raise the level of quality within fleet operations and to demonstrate which operators are achieving exemplary levels of best practice in safety, efficiency and environmental protection. It is the most well-recognized independent distribution accreditation in the UK, and all GPI-branded vehicles traveling around the UK now have this Gold standard accreditation displayed.
There are over 8,400 FORS members in the UK, but only 745 operate at the Gold standard level. This puts GPIDL in the top nine percent of the UK’s fleet operators, most of which are much larger distribution service providers. Achieving the FORS Gold standard is a great accomplishment especially considering it was done in only three years, and not many distribution companies or fleet operators are able to reach the high standards required.
Wayne Murby, transport compliance manager, led the charge with Ian Widdowson, group warehouse and distribution manager, and the rest of the team to get GPIDL to this level. After achieving the Bronze standard in 2017, the team decided to go for the Silver standard which was achieved in 2018. During 2019 they pushed through to achieve Gold. Each year GPIDL is audited on all three levels.
“The key motivator behind taking on the challenge of obtaining this voluntary accreditation was to try to ensure that as a business we are doing everything we can to improve the safety of our employees and the general public in and around the distribution activity we operate,” said Jason Healey, GPI finance director, EMEA.
