Palletways – a leader in pan-European express palletised distribution and part of the Imperial Group - has formed a strategic partnership with Cargo Trans Logistik AG (CTL), that will see customers of both companies benefit from faster transit times and a wider European distribution capability.

CTL is a dynamic and growing network with 5 hubs and 160 local partners  throughout Germany, transporting palletised freight domestically and across Europe.

Palletways also has a substantial German network, with its primary hub at Knüllwald, serving customers through 64 local partners at 74 depots. In addition, it has sister operations in 24 other European countries, with a total of more than 20 hubs and 450 local depots.

“This new partnership will open up new areas and territories, and opportunities for greater business development for both companies,” says Abraham Garcia, Palletways Germany Managing Director.

He continues: „Palletways Germany will provide CTL with international services to and from UK, Italy, Iberia and Hungary and the whole of Europe, while CTL will supplement Palletways Germany’s existing network with its own hubs and depots if necessary.” Outside of the strategic partnership, the networks of both companies will continue to function separately.

Francesco De Lauso, CEO of CTL, adds: “The partnership with Palletways creates a real win-win situation. The combination of Palletways’ strong presence throughout Europe means our customers will have access to many more markets and greater frequency of service. Meanwhile, the combination of CTL’s and Palletways’ domestic German networks means customers of both companies will enjoy improved coverage and faster transit times.”

Exchange of palletised traffic between the two operators will be facilitated by the fact that CTL’s central hub, in Homberg, is only 10km from Palletways Germany’s hub in Knüllwald.

Concludes Palletways’ Garcia: “In these challenging times, and with greater emphasis on internet retailing, fast and reliable distribution has taken on a new importance. This collaboration with CTL provides a stronger and more comprehensive offering to customers that will support their efforts to bring new efficiencies and capabilities to their operations.”