Hauliers across the UK have clubbed together to form a national distribution network that aims to compete with major third party logistics operators by pooling the resources of 28 regional firms. LinQ Alliance brings together 28 hauliers operating more than 40 distribution centres and 2,500 vehicles in the UK and overseas. Chief executive Chris Sturman said that the new alliance was targeting retailers, who are increasingly moving into the primary distribution arena, as well as manufacturers. "I can see ourselves being able to contract direct with Tesco, not just subcontracting for the third party operators." Sturman will circulate opportunities and members would bid for business as a group, said Sturman. "We can be more cost-effective by working together." {{NEWS }}