Ashworth, specialist distributors of commercial heating, plumbing, and drainage solutions, has rolled out Podfather logistics software across its multi-depot UK operation. Looking to transition to paper-free deliveries, Ashworth will also boost its customer service experience using Podfather which includes logistics planning, route optimisation, and proof of delivery (POD) functionality.
Serving the whole of the UK with industrial pipe valves and fittings, Ashworth makes around 200 deliveries a day to major commercial building services, industrial and infrastructure sites, and data centre projects, for example. Ashworth operates its own, mixed fleet, which ranges from 3.5-tonne flatbeds, through to 18-tonne rigid trucks with HIAB, and 44-tonne articulated lorries.
“We pride ourselves on our people, our products, and our service,” commented Steve Everard, Managing Director at Ashworth. As a business, we are always looking for ways to improve both our service and overall customer experience. Exploring solutions like Podfather has been on our agenda for some time, and it’s been a natural step forward for us.
“The platform makes it much easier for our customers to track deliveries in real time, reducing the need for follow-up calls and improving transparency. At the same time, it helps us operate more efficiently through smarter routing, which supports our commitment to reducing environmental impact,” he continued. “Moving away from paper-based delivery notes has also been a significant benefit, allowing us to streamline processes and work more sustainably.
“Overall, the Podfather solution has proven to be a great fit for our business and our ongoing drive for continuous improvement.”
Prior to implementing Podfather, each of Ashworth’s four depots; Bolton, Bristol, Dudley, and Rochester, operated a different delivery management workflow, although each had an over-reliance on paper and specific individuals’ knowledge and experience. In the early stages of its roll-out, Ashworth has already realised tangible benefits and service improvements through the use of Podfather. Integrated with the company’s ERP system, Podfather is being used to intelligently plan optimised routes across the country. At the start of each shift, drivers use the Podfather app to access guided vehicle checks ensuring the fleet is roadworthy and providing early notification of potential issues or defects.
Once on the road the app guides the driver through the schedule and provides real-time tracking, without the need for fixed telematics, giving full visibility for back-office teams and management. On-site, the same easy-to-use app guides the driver to the exact delivery point and is used to capture electronic proof of delivery evidence, including date, time, and location stamped photographs and signatures. This information can be shared with the customer and is used to update customer service and finance teams.
“Podfather was one of the least turbulent software implementations I have ever experienced,” commented Jason Dunford, General Manager at Ashworth’s Bristol Branch. “With support from the Podfather team we literally did a month’s worth of troubleshooting in just one day.”
Dave Jones, Operations Director at Ashworth, added, “Following the initial deployment, we have rolled out Podfather to all four of our locations. We are utilising the customer ETA notifications and ‘follow my driver’ feature, which has really improved our customer experience and dramatically reduced the daily number of queries, relating to deliveries. Having clear visibility of all our vehicles will give us efficiency gains within the order and fulfilment process using Podfather, including a future transition to paperless deliveries and savings in fuel. These will support our environmental objectives and deliver real savings for the business.”
