Business Details
32 Years
experience
Your Trusted Logistics Partner in Chester
Great Bear is a leading UK ambient third-party logistics (3PL) business established in 1994, specialising in nationwide contract logistics and supply chain management. With over 30 sites and 7 million sq. ft. of warehousing space, we operate a modern fleet of over 400 commercial vehicles, providing tailored solutions to diverse sectors including FMCG, healthcare, e-commerce, and household goods. Our commitment to customer service excellence is rooted in a family-oriented approach, combining the capabilities of a large operator with the agility of a boutique provider. As part of the Culina Group, we leverage a broader network spanning ambient, chilled, bakery, and fresh produce logistics, alongside contract packing and manufacturing solutions. Our expertise extends to project management, start-up support, and network change initiatives, ensuring clients benefit from scalable, efficient operations.We prioritise innovation and sustainability, offering services such as retail consolidation centres to reduce environmental impact through optimised logistics. Accredited by the MHRA for healthcare logistics and a member of the BCMPA, we uphold rigorous quality standards. With 25+ years of experience, we serve international blue-chip clients and emerging brands, maintaining a reputation for reliability and operational excellence. Our team-driven culture fosters continuous development, attracting high-calibre talent to support our growth and client needs. Great Bear remains dedicated to delivering value-driven solutions that align with the evolving demands of the logistics industry.
Services
Warehousing
Distribution
Added Value Services
Bonded Facilities
E-Commerce Logistics
Healthcare Logistics
FMCG
Household
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in ambient logistics and supply chain management.
- Our network spans 30+ sites with 7 million sq. ft. of warehousing space.
- We operate a modern fleet of over 400 commercial vehicles for efficient distribution.
- Our tailored solutions cater to diverse sectors including FMCG, healthcare, and e-commerce.
- We are part of the Culina Group, offering integrated logistics expertise across multiple industries.
Associations and certifications
- BCMPA
- MHRA
Services
Warehousing
Great Bear offers ambient warehousing across 30+ sites with 7 million sq. ft. of space, including dedicated and shared-user facilities. Services encompass bonded warehousing, COMAH storage, and MHRA-approved healthcare facilities. Our expertise in large-scale design and build projects ensures tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Distribution
Our distribution solutions include shared-user and dedicated transport services, handling consignments from single parcels to 44-tonne loads. With a modern fleet of 400+ vehicles and export management capabilities, we provide nationwide and international logistics support, ensuring timely and efficient delivery.
Added Value Services
Great Bear enhances supply chains with co-packing, pre-retailing, and production logistics. These services reduce complexity and costs through re-boxing, labelling, JIT delivery, and call centre support. Our tailored approach adds brand value while improving operational efficiency for clients.
Bonded Facilities
We provide bonded warehousing to store goods under duty suspension, supporting import/export operations. This service simplifies customs compliance and reduces costs for businesses handling international trade, particularly in sectors like FMCG and healthcare.
E-Commerce Logistics
Our e-commerce solutions address fast-moving market demands with scalable warehousing, order fulfilment, and last-mile delivery. Designed for flexibility, these services support retailers and brands in meeting customer expectations for speed and accuracy in online order processing.
People
Alastair Isbister
CEO Culina Ambient Division
Alastair leads the Culina Ambient Division, driving strategic growth and operational excellence across Great Bear's logistics network. With extensive industry experience, he focuses on innovation and client-centric solutions.
Chris Price
CFO
Chris oversees financial strategy and governance for Great Bear, ensuring sustainable growth and investment in infrastructure. His leadership supports the company's expansion and service diversification.
Justin Steadman
Business Director
Justin directs key business operations, leveraging his logistics expertise to enhance client relationships and service delivery. He plays a pivotal role in developing tailored supply chain solutions.
Darrell Rushforth
Managing Director
Darrell manages day-to-day operations, ensuring operational efficiency and adherence to quality standards. His focus on continuous improvement drives Great Bear's reputation for reliability and excellence.
Nikki Christophorou
Finance Director (Operations)
Nikki leads financial operations, optimising resource allocation and cost management. Her strategic oversight ensures financial stability and supports the company's long-term objectives.
Questions
What sectors does Great Bear specialise in?
Great Bear serves FMCG, healthcare, e-commerce, household goods, and bonded logistics sectors, offering tailored solutions to meet industry-specific challenges.
Do you offer international logistics services?
Yes, we provide export management services, including warehousing, customs compliance, and freight solutions, supporting trade with Europe and beyond.
What added-value services are available?
We offer co-packing, pre-retailing, production logistics, and call centre services to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce operational complexity.
How does Great Bear ensure sustainability?
Our retail consolidation centres reduce transport emissions by optimising delivery routes, while our energy-efficient facilities support environmentally responsible operations.
Can Great Bear handle large-scale logistics projects?
With 25+ years of experience, we manage large-scale warehouse design, network changes, and start-up support, ensuring scalable and efficient solutions for clients.
What accreditations does Great Bear hold?
We are MHRA-certified for healthcare logistics and a member of the BCMPA, ensuring adherence to rigorous quality and compliance standards.
