Shadow Minister for Transport Graham Simpson MSP visited freight operator Streamline Shipping at their terminal in Coatbridge to hear about their work and the challenges facing the logistics sector in Scotland and UK wide.
He met Director Ian Adam who set out some of the initiatives the freight transport sector need to embrace in 2022 in order to deal with issues like keeping up with demand across Scotland’s islands and their carbon footprint.
Streamline Shipping, who recently celebrated their 40th year of trading, are the biggest freight operator to Orkney and Shetland. The company employs 220 staff across Scotland, 50 of which are based in Coatbridge.
They are the biggest haulier in Scotland for building trade supplies and deliver parcels across Shetland and Orkney for various delivery companies.
Mr Simpson also heard about the firms electric van pilot project which is due to be trailed in January across the Orkney Isles.
Graham Simpson, MSP for Central Scotland said: “The logistics sector is facing serious challenges - not least in staffing - but Streamline are meeting them head-on.
“They have a very impressive operation at Coatbridge. They provide a vital service for getting produce to and from the islands and elsewhere.
“It was also good to hear how they are working to reduce their carbon footprint by investing in electric vehicles.
Ian Adam, Director at Streamline Shipping said: ““The Directors of Streamline Shipping Group were delighted to welcome Graham Simpson MSP, Shadow Minister for Transport to our Coatbridge Freight Terminal.
“We were keen to discuss the challenges facing the logistics sector in Scotland and UK wide and had positive discussion about the initiatives the freight transport sector need to embrace as 2022 approaches.
“The Directors would like to thank Graham for taking the time to meet us and we look forward to continuing the dialogue.”
