Here at InXpress we never do things by halves. We’ve learnt the value of being “all-in” when it comes to running a business in the highly competitive global shipping and logistics industry. However, each member of our franchise network likes to pride themselves on giving the same energy and commitment to helping others, too.
Every year, our InXpress Gives Back initiative helps our franchisees and their employees to raise tens of thousands of pounds for a variety of causes: nationally, globally, and in their local communities. There’s no end to the wonderful stories which come out of our partners’ incredible efforts each year. However, some of the highlights include raising £2,000 for a special wheelchair so that a young boy in Nottingham could find a new lease of life, or helping a young woman pursue her passion for drama and acting after giving up school to help care for her autistic twin brothers.
Taking the road less travelled for those most in need
Inspired by these stories and others, a trio of intrepid adventurers will hit the road in May to raise money for causes close to their hearts. InXpress franchise owners, Neil Hatt and Mike Toal, and UK Country Manager, Jon White, will eventually join the rest of the network in Portugal just in time for our annual convention, but instead of flying, they’re embarking an epic road trip – riding 3,200 miles on their motorbikes all the way from the UK! 4 days of riding there; 4 days of riding back!
However, Neil is no stranger to the trials and tribulations of the open road – last year he biked the entire 1,520 miles from home to Malaga for our 2022 conference, making it there and back in great time. But, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. “I experienced a trapped nerve, high winds, loose handlebars that started to rotate and the heavens opening. Then, when I eventually arrived home I was covered in bugs, dust, sweat and petrol, with wet clothes stinking out my bag!" …Nice!
No challenge can beat us!
From riding against the wind in Northern France, to fighting the biting cold of the Pyrenees mountains, as well as nearly losing control of his bike just a few miles from his destination, Neil proved he’d overcome any obstacle to get where he needed to be. If that isn’t the perfect example of the InXpress ethos, we don’t know what is!
With these experiences under his belt, he’s the perfect choice to lead Jon & Mike across the continent, and we’ll be there when they arrive, cheering them into the conference centre with a well-earned cold beverage – not to mention some soft cushions!
No stranger to biking, Mike joined nearly 6000 bikers to achieve a complete 'Ring of Red' around the M60 for Remembrance Day, last year. About this challenge he says, his second 'Ring of Red' around the M60 for Remembrance Day, last year. About this challenge he says, "This year's event helped raise funds to provide HGV training and job opportunities for veterans in logistics companies. It's a rewarding feeling to know that by taking part, we were helping our veterans to transport InXpress shipments in the future!"
Jon commented, “Every once in a while, you need to challenge yourself and learn new things. My personal challenge began in 2022 with a weight loss programme to literally get my life back. As a reward and focus, I set a goal to get back on a motorcycle.
“Having lost eight stone, I now have the confidence needed to take on the Run to the Sun challenge to help raise money for InXpress Gives Back, which will enable us to make a difference and improve more people’s lives.
“We won't grow and learn, doing what we've always done, and thinking what we've always thought. We need to move beyond our comfort zones. I can’t wait to start the ride to our 2023 UK Convention in Portugal”.
If you’re interested in learning more about Neil, Mike, and Jon’s challenge and would like to contribute to their fundraising, check out their Just Giving page: InXpress Gives Back Run to the Sun.
Making a real difference – for you, and your community
Our Gives Back initiative was born out of a genuine desire to do something positive for the communities we work in. As a franchise, our goal has always been to empower others to improve their lives by working in a mutually beneficial partnership with us, and so we want to extend this philosophy beyond our own network and give something back to those most in need, too.
Our experience has taught us it’s more than possible to run a financially successful business and still have a positive impact on our communities. In fact, these two goals work together incredibly well!
By supporting charities and non-profit organisations, our franchisees and their teams demonstrate their commitment to their communities. This helps to build goodwill and trust with local residents and businesses, which can translate into increased brand awareness and loyalty.
We’ve noticed customers are more likely to support businesses actively involved in charitable causes, making it a powerful tool for franchisees to grow their business whilst increasing their community impact. With InXpress Gives Back, franchisees not only making a positive difference in the world, but also build goodwill, boost their reputation, and drive business growth.
Sound like something you want to be a part of?
An InXpress franchise is all about building a better future – for you, your customers, and your community. Get in touch to find out more.