Major UK Automotive Group TUPE Transfer - Case Study

This major UK automotive group contract operated from 9 sites across the UK, employed 1500 FTEs, with a £100m annual turnover.  NYK managed the external and internal inbound supply chain for the customer throughout the UK and Europe.

Following commercial discussions the business moved to a competitor. Due to the size and complexity of the business it was agreed that the business would transfer in four phases over a period of 9 months. NYK took a very pro-active approach to the TUPE transfer, primarily to ensure good relations were maintained but also because commercially it was important to maximise NYK’s future position.

The project structure encompassed an internal steering committee and an internal project team. In addition there was a 3-way committee that encompassed the Project Managers, HR Managers, and a Senior Operational Manager from NYK, the client, and the competitor.

The project management scope covered all areas associated with the TUPE transfer of 1000 staff, the closure of an operational site with a 200k sq ft cross dock and sequencing centre, and the de-hire of 150 tractor units and 300 trailers.

The project was managed using the following tools;

• Weekly project plan
• Task list
• Issues and Risks log

The overall result was an exceptionally smooth operational hand-over which was acknowledged by the client’s senior managers. Despite very difficult circumstances, with a lot of emotions and strong personalities, good relations were maintained.