The European Pallet Association (EPAL) has announced the result of extensive competitor research conducted by International Logistics Consultancy Hermes SA revealing EPAL solutions are cheaper than exports or private business.
The research shows EPAL solutions are typically 25 per cent cheaper than domestic private pallet pooling models and typically 20 per cent cheaper than exporting to continental Europe using private pooling models.
Andrea Fossa, director of Hermes SA, said: “This research may come as a surprise to some of the larger UK rental pallet pools, but our findings have been remarkably consistent. The test data involved at least 20 well recognised large scale organisations, over a four month consultation period, and is statistically robust”.
Organisations typically found that up-front investment costs in EPAL approved pallets were quickly outweighed by increased reliability leading to longer lifespan and fewer repair fees. The lack of movement fees or stock rotation fees were also cited as advantages.
Following the launch of their recent 1000 x 1200 pallet compatible with UK standard distribution, EPAL has seen 22 per cent growth in the UK during 2008 and now produce more than 60 million pallets across thirty countries.
Paul Davidson, ceo of EPAL UK and Ireland, said: “It has been a great advantage to be able to be able to quantify the financial benefits of using Quality Approved EPAL pallets in an increasingly cost-sensitive market.
“All licensed EPAL manufacturers and approved repairers are audited at least monthly to ensure pallet quality is maintained - but this does not stifle competition between the 1,300 EPAL partner sites, who go to great lengths to offer cost efficient pallet solutions for all pallet users."
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