As one of the founding members of The APC network, YDL has grown from a small local operation into one of the network’s most established depots. Few people have witnessed that journey more closely than Group Director of Logistics, Richy, whose own career has grown alongside the business.
For Richy, the logistics industry has always felt like home. Long before he held a management position, he was spending his afternoons at the depot after school, helping out in the family-run business owned by close family friends. By the age of 15, he was already working in the warehouse and accompanying drivers on deliveries, gaining first-hand experience of the business from the ground up.
After leaving school, Richy enrolled at the University of Leeds, where he continued to build his knowledge by working for another logistics business owned by friends of the family. It was there that he began learning the office side of the operation, broadening his understanding of the industry beyond the warehouse floor. However, it soon became clear that university wasn’t the right path for him, and he made the decision to return to the depot where it had all begun.
Back at the business, Richy worked his way through almost every department, from customer service and accounts to operations, developing a thorough understanding of how each part of the business contributes to its success. At just 22 years old, he became Operations Manager before progressing to Depot Manager. Following YDL’s acquisition of the business, Richy oversaw the move to the company’s current site on Ridgeway in Newton Aycliffe, helping position the depot for its next phase of growth.
That growth has been remarkable; what started with just 7 delivery vehicles has expanded into a fleet of around 30, with the depot now handling up to 2,000 consignments each day. Despite the scale of the business today, relationships remain at its heart. Richy still works with customers who have been with the depot since he first started as a teenager, having built lasting relationships with many of them over nearly two decades.
Today, Richy’s responsibilities extend beyond Newton Aycliffe. As Group Director of Logistics, he also oversees Pass the Parcel Overnight in Brighouse, managing one of the largest geographical areas within The APC network. Together, the depots cover more than 1,000 stem miles every day across the North of England, reaching some of the country’s most remote locations, including the iconic Tan Hill Inn—the highest pub in England, standing 1,732 feet above sea level.
One of the most significant milestones in the business’ recent history came almost three years ago, when EFS Global acquired YDL and its network of depots. The acquisition has brought significant investment into the business, providing the confidence and resources to continue growing while strengthening both the operation and the team.
For Richy, one of the greatest benefits has been the collaborative approach that EFS Global has maintained. Despite the scale of the wider organisation, local knowledge continues to be valued, with depot managers encouraged to contribute ideas and play an active role in shaping the future of the business. The investment in new vehicles, infrastructure and staff development has been matched by a genuine willingness to listen, creating an environment that combines the financial strength of a larger business with the agility and responsiveness of a local operator.
Being part of The APC network has also played a pivotal role in the depot’s continued success. In a highly competitive market where many operators specialise in either pallets or parcels, YDL is able to offer customers both. That breadth of service has transformed the business into a genuine one-stop logistics partner, creating new opportunities for growth while strengthening relationships with customers across the region.
Just as importantly, Richy values the sense of community that exists throughout The APC network. Rather than operating independently, depots regularly support one another, working collaboratively to ensure customers receive the highest levels of service. That willingness to help across depot boundaries, built on strong personal relationships and mutual trust, is something Richy believes truly sets The APC apart from its competitors.
Although his role has evolved considerably over the years, Richy has never forgotten where he started. Having worked in almost every position within the depot, and with a HGV licence of his own, he continues to lead by example. Whether supporting the warehouse team, assisting drivers or helping wherever needed during busy periods, he firmly believes that no task is beneath anyone when there’s a job to be done.
Developing people is another cornerstone of his leadership. Having been given opportunities to progress throughout his own career, Richy is passionate about creating the same opportunities for others. By investing in training, encouraging internal progression and continually upskilling the team, he has helped foster a culture where people can build long-term careers. That commitment is reflected in the loyalty of the workforce, with the depot’s longest-serving APC night driver having dedicated more than 21 years to the business.
Richy’s management philosophy is built on three simple principles: every opinion matters, flexibility builds loyalty, and success is achieved as one team. Whether an idea comes from the warehouse floor or the office, everyone is encouraged to contribute, recognising that the best solutions often come from those closest to the operation. Supporting colleagues through life’s challenges, wherever possible, has also helped create a committed workforce that is willing to go the extra mile in return. Above all, Richy believes in an all-hands-on-deck approach, where everyone works together to deliver the best possible service for customers.
From helping out after school as a 15-year-old to leading two successful depots as Group Director of Logistics, Richy’s career is a testament to the opportunities that dedication, hard work and a willingness to learn can create. Coupled with the continued investment from EFS Global and the strength of The APC network, YDL is well placed to continue building on its success for many years to come.