Pall-Ex names new MD

Logistics giant Pall-Ex has announced two major appointments.

The Leicestershire firm has appointed former Palletways network development director Barry Byers as its new UK managing director, while Martin Rantle joins as non-executive chairman having previously served as vice president of sales for DHL.

The appointments come after Pall-Ex became the first pallet network to be owned by its members and senior management team.

Byers – who has worked in logistics for his entire career – previously held key roles at Royal Mail and TNT.

Rantle, meanwhile, has accrued 30 years’ experience in the sector.

Kevin Buchanan, Palle-Ex Group CEO, said: “These are exciting times for the company and the new appointments will prove invaluable in accelerating our growth in the next few years as we take Pall-Ex to the next level.

“We are proud to be reinforcing our team for this new era with such experienced and knowledgeable individuals as Barry and Martin, who will support Pall-Ex’s status as the number one network for quality.

“As a force in logistics, both are well-known and well-respected for making real impact, with proven results in developing operations at home and internationally, while also building pallet network memberships.”

Martin Rantle

Byers said: “I cannot wait to get started! Leading Pall-Ex in the UK is a fantastic opportunity and I am delighted to be part of the experienced team as we strengthen the business for the future.

“Supporting and developing our network in the UK is my number one priority as we help our members grow and future-proof their own businesses.”

Rantle added: “I am proud to be part of the team leading Pall-Ex into its next chapter and to be working alongside such respected names in the industry.

“Pall-Ex has already made a major impact Internationally and I’m looking forward to building on these foundations as well as support the strengthened senior management team.”

Rantle will join the team in January with Byers joining him in March 2020.