Woolworths Primary Connect announces its carriers of the year

Primary Connect, one of Australia’s largest supply chain networks, has recognised two of its long-standing transport partners as its carriers of the year.

Don Watson Transport  and Russell Transport were awarded as Large Carrier of the Year and Small Carrier of the Year, respectively, at the ninth annual Primary Connect Transport Safety Day for outstanding performance in safety, compliance and service.

This is the first time both companies have been awarded a Carrier of the Year award.

Managing Director of Don Watson Transport, Lyndon Watson, expressed his gratitude over the recognition.

“So much of our intention each day is devoted to the Woolworths freight task – we work on the same team as Woolworths team members,
trying to kick goals for the vendors every day,” Watson said.

“To be seen and be recognised as doing a leading job of it is both humbling and rewarding. There are so many carriers doing a brilliant job, and to be singularly honoured while standing among them is extremely kind,” he said.

Don Watson’s Transport has been in operation since 1948 and has been working with Woolworths since the 1980s. T

The carrier partner currently transports approximately 10,000 pallets of goods for Woolworths per week, as well as delivers for vendors into Woolworths distribution centres under the Primary Connect model.

Small Carrier of the Year, Russell Transport began partnering with Primary Connect in 2010 and operates out of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast.

“Our teams on both coasts have an outstanding focus and drive to deliver a great customer experience,
delivering on time with safety,” said Ken Russell, Director of Russell Transport.

“This award is recognition of their dedication to the task. We have always admired the businesses that have won the award previously. To be held in the same category as them is a true credit to our business and our staff,” Russell said.

Last financial year, Russell Transport delivered more than 125,000 pallets from Woolworths distribution centres to Woolworths, BWS, and Dan Murphy’s stores, in the south-east Queensland area.

Acting Director Commercial, Transport & 3PL Business for Primary Connect, Brian Warry, praised both
carriers.

“Both Don Watson Transport and Russell Transport are a pleasure to work with. They have such a positive, can-do attitude to any task or challenge we send their way,” Warry said.

“We’re incredibly grateful that these carrier partners have gone above and beyond to support us and our customers over a challenging period, ” he concluded.