Since its creation in 1996 Compass Supply Solutions
Ltd has established itself as a trusted provider of top-quality branded
goods at unbeatable prices.
From its very early days the company attracted customers from across the
business world including major names in the UK's transport network. Now
well into its second decade, it continues to have excellent working relationships
with players within the airline, airports, cruise, ferry and rail sectors.
However, the business has enjoyed increasing success in other markets, not
least the catering and hospitality sectors for which Compass provides food,
beverages and other goods at a host of high-profile events. Business has
also developed outside the UK, for example in supplying to duty-free supermarkets
in mainland Europe.
Discounted goods
A key element in the success of the venture has come from its tremendous
buying power, enabling it to develop strong links with leading suppliers
- and secure generous discounts that can be passed on to Compass customers.
This arrangement has developed as the years have progressed, with the company
steadily building its catalogue to include items from around 50 major companies.
At the same time the range of goods has diversified, with an initial focus
on food and drink being broadened when one customer - an airport lounge
- asked whether Compass could also supply cleaning products. A range of
commercial items are now offered as part of its day-to-day activities.
Customer-branded products
Another development has seen the growth of customer-branded products, involving
the supply of items that feature customers' name, logo or corporate identity
on packaging.
As Compass has broadened its nationwide coverage, the company has expanded
its transport and logistics operations. Its own fleet of vehicles is now
complemented by those of A E Parker Ltd, a West Sussex-based haulage company
that provides additional capacity to the business.
Today's Compass maintains the values and customer focus that ensured the
venture's early rapid growth back in the 1990s - but backed up by an expanded
workforce, even broader national coverage and a computerised tracking system
that allows even faster and more accurate deliveries.
