Cannock haulage firm EDS Couriers in major IT investment

EDS Couriers, which operates from its base in Cannock and employs 60 members of staff across two sites, announced the news this month saying it would strengthen its position as a 'leading player' within the transport sector.

The new ePOD (Electronic Proof of Delivery) technology offers the unique and innovative 'proof of location' service which pinpoints exactly where customers' goods have been delivered, as well as recording the time and signature of the recipient.

Andrew Evans, managing director of EDS Couriers, said: "This major investment is transforming the way we work and we are delighted to be able to announce such positive news when many other businesses are having to cut back.

"Investment like this gives our customers the edge and is great news for the local economy."

EDS Couriers is part of the leading UK and European distribution network Palletforce and the investment is a joint venture between the two.

The system provides instant updates for customers to track their consignments, which streamlines operations to radically improve services for clients by giving them all the information they need at their fingertips.

Palletforce, based at Burton on Trent, has more than 100 depots and a £30 million distribution hub.

Chief executive Michael Conroy said: "When fuel is so expensive it is efficiencies like this that make us and our members stand out from the rest.

"Smart technology like this will support our members so they remain competitive in a challenging market."

EDS Couriers is a family run business established more than 50 years ago and also offers a worldwide parcel delivery service.

Andrew Evans added: "The move has been driven by customer expectations. We have already seen how it has revolutionised the parcel industry. We always say that our paperwork travels further than the pallets which shouldn't be the case anymore.

"We are now ahead of the game with a signature capture, not only is it real time, it is exceptionally good."