Truck and Track Winter 2025-26

www.truckandtrack.com Winter 2025/26 Truck and Track 13 BUSINESS NEWS Asset Alliance Group puts down new roots at Huntapac Huntapac, a specialist in the growing, packing and transportation of root vegetables to the UK’s largest retailers, has struck its first deal with Asset Alliance Group, refreshing its fleet with 11 DAF XF 480 trucks. The Hunter family-owned farming business, which is based in Preston and is more than 80 years old, has grown by nurturing long-term relationships, a strategy that has also proved successful for Asset Alliance Group. Joanne Cleece, Head of Transport at Huntapac, says: “It’s our first time working with Asset Alliance Group and we’ve been really impressed so far. They are straight-talking, know their stuff and were able to deliver what we needed at a competitive price.” The 6x2 DAFs feature Sleeper High Cabs and luxury driver air-seats, with the trucks typically away from base for several nights at a time. Four are fitted with tipping gear and wet kits for use with bulk trailers, which deliver produce directly to Huntapac’s packhouse in Tarleton where it is washed, graded and packaged. Huntapac’s trucks cover 180,000km a year on average, and Asset Alliance Group has supplied the latest additions on a threeyear contract hire deal, which includes repair & maintenance. “We prefer to finance as we’re a high-mileage fleet, and the three-year warranty on the trucks means we’re well covered. Technology is changing very quickly too, and if you were to look at a truck from just eight years ago, you’d be shocked by its fuel efficiency. Having a new, tidy fleet is popular with our drivers too,” says Cleece. Following the deal for the new DAFs, Asset Alliance Group was able to demonstrate its responsiveness after another of Huntapac’s vehicle suppliers went into administration. Not only was it able to immediately supply rental vehicles to keep the wheels of the farming business moving, but it also provided compliance support for the affected trucks. “Given that they are our newest vehicle supplier, they are also the one that has helped us out the most,” adds Cleece. Richard Worthington, Business Development Manager for the Northern Region at Asset Alliance Group worked with Cleece and Colin Postlethwaite, Cost Control and Saving Manager at Huntapac, on the deal and subsequent support. Huntapac grows roughly 3,800 acres of root crops a year, including carrots, parsnips and chantenay, across the UK. Its fleet of 65 trucks and 130 trailers – many of which are dualtemperature reefers – move its own produce but sub-contract too. Emma Shorter will be joining Howard Tenens as our Head of Liquid Fuels on the 8th December 2025. Emma brings a wealth of experience across fuel distribution, procurement and operational leadership, gained in both national and specialist sectors. She has a strong track record of building highperforming teams, shaping procurement strategies, supporting new business and developing long-term customer relationships. Her knowledge and approach will be a fantastic addition to the Howard Tenens family as we continue to strengthen and grow our liquid fuels offering. In this new role, Emma will take responsibility for leading and managing all Liquid Fuels procurement activities across Howard Tenens. She will shape and deliver the short, medium and long term strategy for our fuels proposition, ensuring we continue to innovate, embrace sustainability and explore the transition to alternative energy solutions such as HVO and biofuels. A key part of her remit will be identifying opportunities for growth in the fuels sector, strengthening relationships with our suppliers and customers, and ensuring the consistent delivery of strong financial performance across revenue, margin and cost control. Emma will also play a central role in supporting our Chief Operating Officer, Jason Moscrop to align our Liquid Fuels operations with wider organisational goals. Her leadership will help drive improvements in fuel efficiency, environmental impact and operational resilience, while championing the digital tools that enhance fuel management, invoicing, duty processes and compliance across the business. We believe Emma will make a significant contribution to the next chapter of our journey. Her knowledge, forward-thinking mindset and commitment to delivering excellent service make her a fantastic addition to the Howard Tenens family. Please join us in welcoming Emma to the team. We look forward to supporting her transition into the role and working closely together in the months ahead. Welcoming Emma Shorter as Head of Liquid Fuels Emma Shorter TRUCK & TRAILER SOLUTIONS WELCOME TOALLPORTS GROUP allportsgroup.co.uk

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