Inside the UK Chemical Logistics Landscape with Josh Raby, Head of Sales UK,
The UK chemical logistics market is evolving rapidly, shaped by cost pressures, regulatory change, and growing sustainability expectations. We spoke with Josh Raby, Head of Sales UK, about the state of the market and how Suttons International’s UK operations, particularly the Widnes team, are supporting Euro Short Sea customers with safe, reliable, and technically assured solutions.
How would you describe the current UK chemical logistics landscape, and what pressures are shaping customer needs today?
The market remains resilient but increasingly complex. Post-Brexit realities, global supply chain disruption, and shifting expectations have changed how customers operate. Demand is still strong for safe and compliant chemical transport, though not at the levels of five years ago.
Customers are under significant pressure, from rising energy costs and operational expenses to tighter regulations and sustainability requirements. Many chemical manufacturers face energy-intensive processes, so the current price environment hits hard. Add to that driver shortages and UK infrastructure challenges, and customers are relying on logistics partners who can bring efficiency, transparency, and resilience to their supply chains.
Sustainability is now a core requirement. Customers want partners who can help reduce emissions, optimise routes, and ensure absolute compliance. We’re investing in greener technologies and smarter planning tools to meet these expectations and build more flexible, lower-carbon supply chain solutions.
What makes the team a trusted partner for UK chemical customers, and how do the Widnes operations support safe, reliable, and efficient service delivery?
We draw upon deep expertise in handling hazardous chemicals, and our focus on safety, compliance, and technical assurance is central to everything we do. Customers trust us because we deliver consistent quality and communicate transparently, especially when navigating challenges or cost pressures.
Our Widnes site houses a fleet of specialist tank containers supported by dedicated workshop facilities, driver training areas, and logistics planning hubs. From here, we manage heating services for temperature-sensitive products, tank conversions, test tank demonstrations for customer audits, and on-site storage solutions to relieve pressure on customer facilities. This integrated setup allows us to support both UK import/export activity and global movements in a seamless, efficient way.
Technical assurance is a major differentiator. Regular inspections, preventative maintenance, and rigorous safety checks ensure every tank meets the highest standards, enhancing both safety and customer confidence. The professional presentation and reliability of our equipment also reflect positively on customers’ brands when arriving on site.
Our UK team works closely with our wider global network, enabling end-to-end solutions across Europe and further afield. Customers appreciate our expertise, our agility, and our proactive approach to cost optimisation, such as linking import and export flows to reduce empty mileage, offering competitive one-way pricing, and using emissions tracking to support sustainability goals.
Technology continues to elevate what we do. Telematics, real-time tracking, digital documentation, and integrated planning tools improve visibility, accuracy, and responsiveness. We analyse operational data and customer feedback to continuously refine our processes and develop new solutions tailored to industry challenges.
A standout example of our commitment was when we prevented a customer’s production line from shutting down during a supply chain disruption. Our team mobilised quickly, rerouted shipments, and worked around the clock to deliver critical product on time, something the customer recognised as a testament to the strength of our partnership.
What’s your outlook for the UK market, and how is the team preparing to support customers as it evolves?
The next 12–18 months will bring ongoing challenges but also significant opportunity. Innovation, collaboration, and strong partnerships will be essential. I expect increased investment in sustainability and further digitalisation across the sector.
We are preparing by investing heavily in technology, infrastructure, and training, and by expanding our service offering to provide flexible, scalable solutions. Our goal is to be a trusted advisor, helping customers navigate change and seize new opportunities.
What are you most proud of about the UK team?
Their professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to safety. Every day, they go above and beyond to support customers and uphold the high standards we’re known for. They’re the backbone of our success.
