RBS and Lombard funding enable UK logistics firm to continue expansion

Cardiff-headquartered logistics operator Rhys Davies Logistics (RDL) has purchased 20 newly branded trailers after agreeing a funding package from asset finance specialist Lombard and Royal Bank of Scotland Corporate & Institutional Banking (RBS CIB).

RDL was founded in 1952 and, over the past 20 years, has grown from a single base in South Wales into a national company with ten depots throughout the UK.  The Cardiff headquarters provides central services to the company and, together with operating centres in locations such as Haydock, Andover, Barnsley, Birmingham, London and Newton Aycliffe, forms a national network of logistics, distribution and warehousing, offering excess of 600,000 square feet.  The business, which last year celebrated its 60th anniversary, has an annual turnover of over £37m and employs more than 460 people throughout the UK.

The joint asset finance facility from RBS and Lombard has allowed Rhys Davies to renew and expand its fleet to over 190 vehicles, ranging from vans and rigids through to articulated vehicles and double-deck trailers. Operating within client sectors as varied as carpeting to chemicals and packaging to healthcare, the additional 20 vehicles will allow the business to grow in a very competitive UK logistics market.  Rhys Davies has been a client of RBS since inception in 1952.

Mark Richmond, managing director, Rhys Davies & Sons Limited, said: "This funding from RBS and Lombard allows us to invest in the company and focus on our growth aspirations.  We are proud to be able to make further additions to our fleet, especially as it coincides with our 60th anniversary and the recent corporate rebranding.  With the financial support and guidance from RBS I'm confident the business will enjoy another strong 60 years and remain at the forefront of our industry."

David Brown, relationship director, RBS, said: "Rhys Davies is a great example of a Welsh success story performing on the national stage as evidenced by its expanding fleet.  The move to the striking new brand demonstrates the on-going development of the business and a clear display of the values that underpin the service that RDL provide to a large range of customers nationally and internationally.  Operating in a competitive market, it continues to increase its presence and client proposition and we are delighted to be Rhys Davies' bank of choice."