A family-run Welsh haulage firm is marking 25 years in business with a major investment in electric lorries, as it looks to expand its operations and reduce transport emissions.
Pontypridd-based Inter-Haul Pallet Services has purchased two MAN electric tractor units and an electric rigid lorry, alongside two double-decker trailers, to celebrate its quarter-century milestone.
The vehicles will feature a distinctive green anniversary livery, highlighting the company's commitment to more sustainable freight transport.
Founded in 2001 by husband-and-wife team Mark and Alyson Waite, Inter-Haul has grown into one of the largest logistics businesses in the area.
The company now handles around 1,500 palletised shipments daily and operates a 60,000 sq ft warehouse, which opened approximately a decade ago.
Managing director Mark Waite said improvements in battery technology had made electric heavy goods vehicles an increasingly viable investment for the business.
He added that drivers were "ecstatic" with the new vehicles, which will also support fully electric deliveries into London for construction industry customers.
The investment forms part of the company's wider efforts to reduce its environmental impact while maintaining efficiency across its transport operations.
Inter-Haul, which holds FORS Gold accreditation, has also secured government funding to install solar panels at its headquarters.
The company says the installation will allow the new electric lorries to be charged on site, with plans to power them entirely off-grid.
As a founding shareholder member of the Wolverhampton-based Pallet-Track network, Inter-Haul has focused on pallet distribution and contract logistics rather than general haulage.
Mr Waite, who also serves on Pallet-Track's board as Network Member Director, said the company's approach to customer service and sustainable growth had been central to its success.
"I think not selling on low margins has always been my mantra and has helped us get where we are today," he said.
"We always sell on service, which is one of the huge benefits of being in Pallet-Track because the service of our network is up there with the best."
He explained that concentrating on pallet network operations and contract logistics had helped the business achieve greater efficiency and more sustainable growth than pursuing transport volumes alone.
Maintaining long-standing customer relationships has also played an important role in the company's development.
"Being honest also goes a long way. If we get things wrong, we just tell the customer if there’s an issue," Mr Waite said.
"As a result, I’ve got clients who’ve been with us for 25 years – literally since day one."
The anniversary is also being celebrated by two long-serving employees who joined shortly after the company began trading.
Warehouse manager Mike Gregg and Class 1 driver Derek Pritchard are both marking almost 25 years with the business in 2026.
Mr Waite said reaching the milestone was particularly significant after the company's 20th anniversary passed during the Covid-19 pandemic, when celebrations were not possible.
"Covid was an astonishing time. We didn’t even celebrate our 20th anniversary because of what was going on – there wasn’t time for celebrating," he said.
"However, it was testament again to the staff that coming out of that time, we were stronger. We can enjoy the celebrations properly this time around."
Pallet-Track chief executive Stuart Godman praised Inter-Haul's contribution to the network and its investment in cleaner transport technology.
"As a founding Shareholder Member of our network, the contribution of the Inter-Haul team to Pallet-Track’s success cannot be underestimated," he said.
He described the new electric lorries as a reflection of the company's forward-looking approach and commitment to sustainability.
"Here’s to the next 25 years of success and continued growth!"