By Martin Walker
Stiller Warehousing and Distribution has appointed a new General Manager in a move which will help boss Paul hand the reins to the next generation of his family almost six decades since the birth of the company.
As the Newton Aycliffe firm approaches its 60th birthday, Stiller heads into a transitional period by promoting Matthew Stiller (pictured above, right) to Commercial Manger.
Brian Simpson (above left) has now joined the family-run business from neighbouring PWS, a major manufacturer of kitchen components and worksurfaces, to help with the process.
Current Managing Director and dad Paul, who was handed the company from his father, Gunter, 30 years ago, says it’s a major step forward.
“We’ve known Brian for a number of years and we’ve always had such a high regard for him,” says Paul.
“The disciplines he brings with him, his management style, the whole package, will benefit the business tremendously.
“He’s also ideally placed to help Matthew in the transitional period of him taking the reins, and that’s a key element.
“It’s a major step for us, from a developmental point of view. He brings with him a modern, up-to-date management style which can only benefit Matthew and the company.
“Brian is now finding his feet. He has two operational teams reporting to him and he’s starting to see the inner workings of a busy logistics company from the other side of the fence.”
Brian was previously warehouse and distribution manager for PWS, having worked for them for more than nine years, and previously worked for food distribution companies.
The 45-year-old, originally from the Borders, said: “I’ve moved to the other side of the table, having employed hauliers in my previous role, I’m now the haulier.
“I’ve known Stiller for a while now and it has a good name in the industry. The main attraction for me was the variety of the role, working out different solutions for a variety of different companies.
“It’s a very fast-moving environment so I’ve had to get involved in some of the company’s major contracts straight away.
“But it’s a fresh new challenge and one I’m really looking forward to.”
Stiller, which employs 115 people, reported an increase in turnover to £10.5m at the end of 2013 and recently announced plans to invest £700,000 in a new multi-use building on its huge site as part of the group’s long-term growth plans to create employment.
Stiller’s premises at the heart of Aycliffe Business Park includes a 15,000-pallet store within 160,000 square feet, which stores for 15 customers from varying industries.
Due to a strategic reorganisation of its site, extra pallet storage space has now become available, and firms seeking storage can contact them on 01325 313140.
