“For over four decades Streamline has supported Orkney and Shetland with reliable delivery services. We are proud to use this opportunity to grow our level of support, ensuring individuals and businesses maintain strong logistical links with mainland UK and beyond.” – James Roberts, operations director at Streamline Shipping Group

Following the sudden announcement that Menzies Distribution would close its Orkney and Shetland depots in December, Streamline Shipping Group was the preferred option to provide a first class, reliable service on the islands from January 3, 2024.

James Roberts, commented:

“We have long been keen to invest in facilities, people and services in Orkney and Shetland – and were, in fact, the first to introduce EVs to last-mile delivery fleets in the islands. We are committed to continuing this investment into the communities in which we work, and have been able to retain half of Menzies staff as part of this.”

Already a major logistics presence on the islands for over 40 years, the move means that Streamline is now the shipping, warehousing and last-mile delivery partner for over 90% of UK national carrier networks in Orkney and Shetland.

The firm has also taken on management of facilities responsible for transporting goods to communities in the outer islands, as well as enabling national brands and services to continue supporting island communities.

Streamline employs over 80 staff in the islands, delivering around 685,000 parcels in 2023 – including nearly 81,000 in the Christmas run-up, from December 1-23.

In Q4 of 2023, the firm reported all deliveries arriving on time – indicating that Orkney and Shetland residents can expect a high quality service.

James continued:

“During the handover from Menzies, Streamline inherited a backlog of delayed parcels, due to the festive season and weather conditions, but thanks to the remarkable efforts of our teams this has already been resolved.

“We have invested significantly over the years in the infrastructure required to effectively serve Orkney and Shetland, and our teams are fully capable of integrating the increased capacity. We look forward to working with the communities in the islands for many years to come.”