by Chris Holland Business Reporter Rising demand from online shoppers has led a Bradford distribution company to launch a new service and create ten jobs.

Expect Distribution, which also has an operation in Halifax, has acted on research which showed that more companies are looking for specialised delivery of larger and bulkier items that require a two-man delivery team.

Expect has launched such a service which it believes will open up opportunities with new and existing clients .

The family-run company has recruited ten staff for the new service, taking its total workforce to 185.

Expect Distribution has invested in a new fleet of branded vehicles, each fitted with the latest satellite navigation and vehicle tracking technology to support its next-day and timed delivery service throughout the UK.

A new black and red livery has been designed to differentiate the two-man fleet from the Expect’s existing dark blue branding for its nationwide palletised delivery services.

Operations director Neil Rushworth said “We have found that companies in the growing e-retail sector have very specific transport needs which can be business to business, site delivery or residential delivery.

“They demand a fast, efficient service of larger products that a traditional driver-only service cannot physically manage. The new two-man delivery service goes live this week following several months of preparation and consultation with potential clients.”

New recruits for the two-man delivery operation have undergone a rigorous training programme. The experienced and qualified HGV drivers are assisted by an apprentice working under the Government’s apprenticeship scheme, which enable them to qualify as drivers through an 18-month training programme.

HR manager Suzanne Nield said: “We are delighted to be able to offer five new apprentice opportunities to young people in the West Yorkshire area.

“We have been overwhelmed by the number of applicants and their interest in working in transport. "Our scheme is run in partnership with Systems Training and on successful completion of the course our apprentices will be fully qualified HGV class C drivers, with a QCF qualification. Our overall aim is to get the young people of the area into the transport industry.”

The company operates from a £9 million Bradford head office near the M606.

The company provides 215,000 sq ft of warehousing across three sites.