Cromwell Tools signs distribution deal with XPO Logistics

Cromwell Tools has signed a big freight distribution deal with XPO Logistics, which will see much of its goods shipped around the country at night.

Cromwell, which is headquartered just outside Leicester, has been in business 50 years, supplying products ranging from safety equipment to tools, abrasives and lubricants to some of the UK’s biggest businesses. Seven years ago it became part of US parts supplier WW Grainger Inc.

It supports sectors including aerospace, automotive, transport and distribution and bigger clients include Rolls Royce, Airbus, Bombardier, Bosch and JCB. A large chunk of its sales come from smaller manufacturers, half of them one-off, online purchases.

Northampton-based XPO will be used to move goods from Cromwell’s Wigston base to 40 locations, much of it at night, and transport goods between satellite sites as well as collect from suppliers during the day.

XPO’s IT system will provide real-time tracking, order visibility and business intelligence, as well as health and safety and customer service support.

Cromwell Tools head of transport Dan Kinsey said: “Our overnight service operates at the heart of our nat