Last week, we hosted a visit from Kemi Badenoch, Leader of the Conservative Party, at our Aylesford warehouse. This was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our operations and discuss the business challenges that companies like ours are currently facing.

Discussing the business of logistics with Kemi Badenoch

 

What are the challenges?

Our Managing Director, Matt Smith, led an insightful discussion on the key logistical challenges facing SMEs and particularly the freight and fulfilment sector.

• Rising operational costs, increased employment costs – National Insurance and minimum wage increases will take effect in April. We’ve already seen a record number of businesses closing, and this will impact the wider economy.
• High interest rates have affected both businesses and individuals. We noticed a downturn last year in retail spending on the lead up to Christmas.
• Rising fuel costs affect profitability and will add to the cost of goods.
• Ongoing supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical instability lead to fluctuating costs, and could impact the overall competitiveness of UK businesses in the global market.
• Rising consumer expectations, 78% of consumers expect same-day or next-day delivery – once seen as a value-added extra, this is now widely considered the bare minimum – which leaves little room for delay or errors in the supply chain.

Matt highlighted the crucial need for government policies that support UK growth and stability.

A focus on apprenticeships and workforce development

Kemi Badenoch meets some of our TPS Apprentices

One of the most rewarding aspects of the visit was the involvement of our apprentices, who had the opportunity to speak with Kemi Badenoch about their educational experiences and career development. Kemi shared her experience as an apprentice and how it helped her with workplace confidence and building lasting skills.

As a company that strongly believes in nurturing young talent, we were proud to showcase the next generation of logistics professionals. Their conversations covered the importance of accessible apprenticeships and training opportunities, and ensuring that businesses can continue to be a driving force in employing, supporting and developing young people.

Recognising the hard work behind the scenes

A business is only as strong as its team, and we were thrilled to give Kemi Badenoch a first-hand look at the dedication and expertise of our staff. From the warehouse operatives to the freight and operations teams, everyone at TPS plays a crucial role in keeping supply chains moving efficiently.

Visits like these are important to demonstrate the real-world impact of government policies on businesses like ours.

Our Warehouse Supervisor Nas Neto shows Kemi how we pick, pack and fulfil orders in our warehouse. Using the new Warehouse Management System Canary7

This intelligent management system is scalable, intuitive, it’s capabilities include stock rotation, bespoke integration, compatibility for LIFO, FIFO and lot numbers + more.

Local support

We are very grateful to Helen Grant OBE, our local MP for Maidstone and Malling, for arranging this visit. Her ongoing support for local businesses and SMEs is invaluable, and we appreciate the opportunity to engage directly with policymakers on the issues that matter most.