Menzies Distribution is expanding its operations nationwide in England thanks to a new primary distribution deal for Reach plc newspapers.

Scottish-based Menzies Distribution will collect all of Reach plc daily and weekly regional newspapers like the Daily Mirror and deliver them to wholesaler locations throughout the Kingdom.

A Menzies spokesperson said: “It’s going to be a separate operation for England and Wales, so distribution methods will not need to change and independents will not be treated differently.”

Speaking to RN, David Woodrow of Woodrows Newsagent in Bishopton said the change should prove beneficial to retailers in England: “Menzies picks up every paper from every print plant in Scotland already, and I think its good practice for the rest of the country. It cuts off the middle men and reduces the chance something will go wrong.”

RN columnist Neville Rhodes agrees: “There is a better chance of the newspapers reaching the depot on time than if there was a third party.”

NFRN head of news Brian Murphy said: “It’s good that someone who already understands the importance of timely newspapers to retailers is taking a key role in its distribution.”

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