Stacks of help at Phil’s warehouse roadshow

AN Oldham man is behind a pioneering event which will attract around 200 visitors from across the country.

Phil Culling, who was born in Werneth, grew up in Royton and lived in Grotton before settling in Doncaster where he is chairman of Redirack Ltd, is one of the partners behind the venture focusing on the twin themes of energy efficiency and safety in the warehouse.

He has been with Redirack Ltd for 35 years, becoming managing director in 1998 and leading a management buyout in 2004. A devoted Latics fan, he has named his two dogs Roger and Palmer.

In 2009 he and Mantra Learning executive director Mark Currie created Warehouse Technology Group (WTG) on the basis that training in the logistics sector is key to long-term employment in the region.

“As a beacon status provider Mark had the resources to deliver the training and I attracted a number of leading materials handling equipment and warehouse services suppliers to join the group,” Mr Culling said.

WTG has grown to 17 member companies and in addition to the special events the centre is open to visitors by appointment all year round. “Our profile is growing rapidly,” he added.

This unique collaboration of companies manufactures and supplies specialist equipment to the warehousing and logistics industry and has created a fully working warehouse known as the Logistics Research and Innovation Centre (LRIC) at Greengate, Middleton.

The partners are holding an open day at the centre on Wednesday, October 19 and October 20.

Home Retail Group, Brother UK, Morrison’s along with many local businesses have already indicated they will be attending.

Key note speakers will offer insights into new technology and working practices. Open from 10am to 4pm, light refreshments will be available all day with a buffet lunch.

Alongside the existing equipment and services the organisers will be showcasing Hyster fork lift trucks from Barloworld.

Speakers are Lance Pearson, who will illustrate how Utility Watch saves companies in the warehousing industry thousands of pounds per month on energy bills and Ian Hancock, an experienced Health and Safety expert will share his experiences of working in some of the country’s leading logistics and distribution companies.

Ian will show how reducing the likelihood of accidents in the supply chain is both morally and economically important.

Visit www.wtglive.co.uk for full programme timings and to register.