Our solutions for job scheduling, vehicle tracking and proof of delivery are sold and maintained through our Manchester (UK) office.
22 October 2021
The QE Facilities Outpatient Pharmacy provides a range of out-patient dispensary services for speciality medications. All of these services are underpinned by robust NHS IT systems but, where applicable, bolstered by ‘best of breed’ third party software to enhance core functionality. Against this background, John Welsh (Associate Director of Pharmacy Services at QE Facilities) began examining how the homecare delivery service could be optimised, the primary requirements being accuracy and supply of product to the patient. His investigation of current market offerings highlighted Touchstar Technologies ‘PODStar’ Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) software as a system that was widely used within a number of industry sectors including general and specialist logistics. Read More >>
01 October 2021
Electric vehicles (EVs), a subject that has firmly found its way into the media spotlight in recent years - and it is only growing. The government’s plan to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 is in full swing, with industries across the globe set to be affected – the logistics sector will be no stranger to this impact. We discuss the rise of EVs, advantages and considerations of the technology to the logistics sector and the state of play with regards to UK commercial vehicle trials. Read More >>
23 September 2021
The logistics sector is no stranger to the impact of COVID-19 and the unique pressures placed on the supply chain as a result. As the vaccination roll-out continues and we witness easing of travel restrictions, how can fleet managers continue to safeguard their workforces and boost the mental health of fleet drivers? Read More >>
17 August 2021
The Bread Factory’s declared mission is "giving more people better access to the best-quality baked goods”. This strategic aim means the constant examination of business practices and fine-tuning efficiency throughout the distribution process. Despite the sophistication of the baking operation, many elements of the distribution process remained paper-based and the company took the decision to invest substantially in upgrading core IT systems & selected 'PODStar' from Touchstar Technologies
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06 July 2021
This blog explores how the use of an electronic proof of delivery system (EPOD) can simplify processes for fleet managers who use temporary or seasonal fleet drivers. Read More >>
01 March 2021
Never before have global supply chains been faced with disruption of such a high magnitude or been forced to adapt to meet the radical changes in consumer behaviour. This blog explores the most pressing challenges facing logistics companies in 2021.
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22 December 2020
No one in the logistics sector is likely to forget 2020 anytime soon. On the cusp of a new year that all are hoping will bring less upheaval, this blog looks ahead to 2021 and what could be in store for the UK logistics industry over the next twelve months. Read More >>
07 December 2020
Flash flooding, black ice and snow, and even melting motorways can all cause significant road delays and leave fleet managers with a delivery backlog and list of unhappy customers. While it’s not possible to predict every weather abnormality or even to avoid them when they are forecast, bad weather doesn’t have to throw a logistics operation into disarray. This blog explores how route planning software can help fleet managers mitigate bad weather, as part of a feature-rich Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) system. Read More >>
27 October 2020
A vast range of sectors rely on industrial parts distribution to keep them going. From automotive to engineering, construction to manufacturing, countless operations depend on the ability to procure the right industrial parts whenever they need them. Therefore, speed of service, efficiency and reliability are top priorities for industrial parts distributors. EPOD is the solution! Read More >>
22 October 2020
An Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) system is rarely just that, and that’s especially true of our system, PODstar. While PODstar offers a secure, verifiable and paperless means to capture proof of delivery, there’s far more that it can offer in terms of business benefits. This blog delves into some of the many benefits of EPOD for logistics and delivery businesses. Read More >>
15 September 2020
New Wave sought a system that would optimise its delivery operations. After an extensive and thorough examination of available systems the management team selected the ‘PODStar’ Electronic Proof of Delivery system from Manchester-based Touchstar Technologies. Read More >>
27 August 2020
The unprecedented events of this year have made customers more reliant on delivery than ever, but also more aware of drivers’ approaches to customer service. Many delivery businesses have also hired extra drivers to meet the increased demand of recent months, temporary staff who may not always be aware of the brand values of the company they’re working for. This blog outlines why it’s more vital than ever to make brand ambassadors of your drivers, and how an EPOD solution can help. Read More >>
27 July 2020
All told, lockdown has been a sort of boomtime for food distribution, but one that’s made logistically gruelling by a global pandemic. The pressure to expediate supply chains in the face of a never-before-seen public health emergency has been nothing short of monumental. Has there ever been a greater need for digital support and optimisation within the food sector? This blog illustrates how Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) keeps the food sector moving as efficiently as possible. Read More >>
08 July 2020
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has been a uniquely challenging time for the logistics sector. Never have the world’s supply chains faced such a universally seismic set of circumstances, nor one that is likely to have such far-reaching consequences. Yet the challenges of COVID-19 have been, and continue to be, somewhat different for the logistics industry than that of other areas of business. Read More >>
24 March 2020
What constitutes drop and go and why do it? Drop and Go protects your drivers and the people they are delivering to. It maintains the recommended 2 metre social distance. There are a couple of practical aspects to this. If the person receiving the parcel is at home then a ring of the doorbell, putting the parcel at the threshold and then standing back 2 metres will be a straightforward drop off situation.
But if someone is really unwell then you might not see anyone at the door. In these cases, you are going to be leaving the parcel in a safe place. You may need to be clear about what is a safe place in your communications – will you make exceptions at the moment? Read More >>
11 March 2020
Background Acorn Industrial Services Ltd is part of Axel Johnson International, a global industrial group of more than 120 companies in 28 countries. Acorn sought a system that would optimise its delivery operations. After an extensive and thorough examination of available systems the Acorn management team selected the ‘PODStar’ Electronic Proof of Delivery system from Manchester-based Touchstar Technologies. Read More >>
04 March 2020
Whether a fleet manager has been in the position for two years or two decades, there’s always more to learn. Developing particular working practices can make the changeable nature of fleet management easier to navigate. So, besides maintaining relevant industry knowledge and experience, what are the habits fleet managers should adopt? Read More >>
03 February 2020
The UK commercial vehicle manufacturing sector fell by 7.8% in 2019, according to new figures, with model changeovers, variable fleet buying patterns and regulatory issues blamed for the decline. In all, 78,270 were produced in 2019, compared to 84,888 in 2018, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Read More >>
20 January 2020
IoT relates to the devices and sensors that link the fleet manager to each of their vehicles and/or drivers via the internet – for example, vehicle telematics sensors, handheld mobile computers and even smartphones with the right Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) software. Each of these device types expand a fleet manager’s view of workforce activity beyond the office and into the field, creating a digital network via which vital operational data can flow back and forth in real-time. Read More >>
06 January 2020
For many couriers a big question is how do you prove you left the goods where instructed? Indeed, how can you prove you were at an address at all? The practicalities are tricky to manage. The possibilities with a smart device don’t end with a signature and bar code. In instances where people have nominated a safe place, it’s now possible to take an image of the item in situ using the same device and link it to the order in the same way. Read More >>
23 December 2019
Proof of Delivery innovator continues to shake up the market Touchstar, a developer of intelligent real-time EPOD solutions, and a member of the Touchstar PLC group of companies, has enjoyed an 86% growth in the sales of its PODStar integrated Proof of Delivery system. Read More >>
20 December 2019
Our Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) systems are designed to be a digital backbone for delivery businesses, automating processes where possible and providing operational visibility, connectivity and streamlining. As the year draws to a close, we’ve been looking back at how the data captured by our Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) systems is helping our customers’ businesses in real and tangible ways. Read More >>
26 November 2019
Just as Black Friday has cemented its place as an annual festival of shopping for discounted deals, so too have the stories of customer dissatisfaction linked with the delivery of items bought online at peak periods.
The thing is, in previous years it may have been a case of deliveries being too slow, a lack of options or even damage occurring during transit. But now the key reason behind shoppers’ discontent is one that wouldn’t have seemed possible a decade ago – that deliveries are arriving too early. Read More >>
31 October 2019
As a fleet manager of a logistics company, think of the dozens of admin tasks you do every day. What if there was a way to take those off your to do list, so you could concentrate on what you do best - strategically improving the operational performance of your fleet? Read More >>
08 October 2019
When specifying a ‘PODStar’ system our entire team, from sales to business analysts and senior management, are focused on understanding the detail of the client operation. Our goal is to solve the client’s most pressing ‘pain points’ and identify issues that may be preventing companies from optimising their processes. By identifying and implementing the right combination of hardware technology and EPOD software within their existing workflow processes, we help our clients minimise the disruption to their ongoing operations during the implementation phase. But what happens once a system goes ‘live’? How does Touchstar ensure we’re providing optimized IT service management? Read More >>
19 September 2019
According to the latest annual Logistics Report from the Freight Transport Association (FTA), a huge 71.4 percent of van operators intend to use electric vehicles in their fleets this year. If your business is one of them, it’s time to assess the impact of the switch to a partially or completely electric fleet. Read More >>
19 August 2019
EPOD systems are responsive, scalable solutions capable of developing alongside your organisation. To get the most from an investment in this technology, you need an experienced EPOD supplier who can provide support and guidance far beyond your initial purchase. Digital partnerships are paving the way for the logistics industry of tomorrow; 70% of executives surveyed by The Economist Intelligence Unit say companies going it alone (without digital partnerships) will soon be a thing of the past. Make sure your chosen EPOD partner can offer your business the right key credentials and services. Read More >>
18 July 2019
Global online furniture sales are expected to grow at an average annual rate of 11.9% between 2018 and 2022 thanks to dropping shipping costs and the convenience and prevalence of buying online. This trend towards ‘big-ticket’ online sales means a specific challenge for delivery companies; to provide last mile delivery that safeguards large, high-value items and offers more hands-on customer service. Read More >>
21 June 2019
opting for separate specialist software systems doesn’t always guarantee the most effective digital set up for a logistics company. Instead, choosing an application that provides many integrated features within a single system - such as one that can track your drivers and record electronic proof of delivery (EPOD) - simplifies solution procurement and maintenance, boosts your purchasing power and streamlines and enhances the task of fleet management. Read More >>
23 May 2019
Anytime Express Transport is a rapidly expanding specialist transport company providing services for a diverse number of industries. The company focus is on adding value through expert and on-time product delivery. Their search for a ‘best of breed’ delivery and tracking system led the AET management team to examine the PODStar system from Manchester-based TouchStar Technologies. AET rapidly reached the conclusion that the Touchstar solution offered the full required functionality when compared to alternative systems. Read More >>
21 May 2019
Failed deliveries can add up to a far bigger and more far-reaching problem for delivery businesses, with financial, reputational and administrative consequences. In this blog we’ve explored the impact of failed deliveries as well as how to minimise the damage. Read More >>
08 May 2019
The CV Show is the UK's premier exhibition for the logistics and transportation sector. This year it was held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham from 30th April to 2nd May. Touchstar have had a presence at the event for over two decades and the show is always an automatic re-book due to the large number of enquiries it generates … & the 2019 event did not disappoint. Read More >>
08 April 2019
Touchstar are a leading provider of Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) systems which are purposefully designed to digitise the paper trail … but can we even begin to establish a clear argument for environmental impact? We think we can! Read More >>
21 March 2019
There are many advantages to moving to an Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) system from a manual one; improved accuracy, fewer failed deliveries and a less paperwork-cluttered working environment being some of the most obvious. But what about the EPOD business benefits that may not immediately spring to mind? This article outlines some of the more surprising ways that EPOD can refine your business’s operational performance. Read More >>
15 March 2019
The 2019 CV Show will be the first time two divisions from within the Touchstar group are exhibiting at the same event, on a single stand (4G115). Visitors to the stand will be able to see the full range of new software and hardware solutions for paperless EPOD, job scheduling, tracking, route planning, safety inspection etc. Read More >>
15 February 2019
As those in the delivery business understand all too well, every consignment moves through a series of supply chain stages before reaching its final destination. Yet, from a customer’s point of view, the only part of the journey that they’re likely to be aware of is the ‘last mile’. This is the part of the delivery process in which the goods travel from a local depot to the safe hands of their new owner. Due to its focal point in consumer consciousness, last mile delivery is generally regarded as the most important phase of the entire operation, and rightly so. Read More >>
25 January 2019
Your drivers are the lifeblood of your delivery service. Their efforts keep your fleet on the move and your customers happy. Despite this, it’s not uncommon for businesses to underestimate the impact driver performance can have on overall service productivity. Virtually every factor essential to a delivery service can be optimised, from your vehicles and the amount of fuel they use, to route planning and the time it takes to complete a job, but how can you ensure your drivers are also at the top of their game? Read More >>
21 December 2018
We’ve come a long way from manually checking off deliveries against a hand-written list or an Excel spreadsheet, and the logistics sector is all the better for it. Modern technology has greatly simplified overseeing deliveries to consumers, enabling continuous visibility and optimised efficiency from warehouse to final destination. Electronic proof of delivery (EPOD) is continuing to evolve as consumers become ever-more demanding and businesses continually up their service provision in order to stay competitive. This blog outlines what we expect to see in the industry over the next few years. Read More >>
04 December 2018
As many businesses have come to realise, it’s simply not possible to offer a delivery service that meets client demands without the support of an Electronic Proof of Delivery (EPOD) system. But, how do you know which EPOD solution is right for your business? What are the most important factors to consider when choosing EPOD software and a supplier to provide it? We highlight four elements that are a good place to start. Read More >>
16 November 2018
For several years now, the last two months of the year have been synonymous with massive retail spending. Since its importation from the US, the Black Friday / Cyber Monday weekend has well and truly become part of the UK retail calendar, joining forces with Christmas to create six weeks of intense consumer activity. And it’s online that’s come out on top in recent years; in 2017, UK online retail sales hit £1.39 billion on Black Friday, up 11.7% on 2016’s date. With such huge commercial opportunity on offer, any retail company – especially those with an online store – needs to make sure they’re ready to make the most of it. Read More >>
27 September 2018
Getting goods from A to B may seem a simple enough task at first glance. Yet, as any business responsible for logistical operations can attest, there are countless factors that can impact the efficiency and performance of your fleet out in the field.
While some of these may be out of your control, other factors can be controlled and mitigated by optimising the route planning processes that keep your fleet moving. Effective route planning not only means the difference between a delivery service that earns repeat business and one that doesn’t; it can benefit your organisation in ways that can add value across the board. Read More >>
06 September 2018
Exceeding customer expectations today is perhaps more challenging than it has ever been. Across every sector and area of service, customers anticipate more from the businesses they use, and ever-increasing competition means they have more options than ever to find it. So, when it comes to deliveries, what do customers really want? And how can your business be sure to provide it? Read More >>
03 August 2018
If your business has a presence out on the UK’s roads, making sure your drivers and vehicles are compliant with the law is absolutely essential. Government regulations exist to ensure the highest possible standards of safety, not just for your drivers but other road users too. Failing to meet these standards can compromise their wellbeing, as well as resulting in hefty fines, an organisational investigation and even criminal prosecution in some cases. Read More >>
05 July 2018
Recent research suggests that it can be difficult to get stakeholders to subscribe to an investment in EPOD, tending to view it as simply another overhead. All too often, budget limitations prevent EPOD implementation, when in reality, it’s capable not only of saving money but actually generating returns. Read More >>
05 July 2018
Having an up-to-the-minute view of your remote operational activity has multiple benefits across a number of key areas, and should be an important contributor to an organisation-wide data feed. This article explains how an electronic proof-of-delivery (EPOD) solution can provide this real-time visibility. Read More >>
26 June 2018
React Transport are experts in fragile freight distribution and has operational bases in Livingston, Manchester and Reading. After a thorough examination of EPOD available systems, the React Transport management team opted for the PODStar system from Manchester-based TouchStar Technologies. Read More >>
29 May 2018
A growing number of businesses are investing in electronic proof-of-delivery (EPOD) systems to help streamline their operations. These tools do come at a cost but choose the right one and the eventual returns will undoubtedly outweigh your initial spend. As our existing customers will know, an EPOD solution can boost a company’s profitability in various ways. Read More >>
11 May 2018
Data is crucial for most businesses these days, but some types of information are more valuable than others. For fleet managers, vehicle movement data is perhaps the most useful; when utilised properly, it can lead to better decisions, improved safety and some impressive cost reductions. Read More >>
28 March 2018
On May 25 this year, the EU General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) will come into force, marking the biggest change to UK data protection legislation in two decades. The update will impact businesses and workers across all sectors, including fleet managers. Today, to manage a fleet of vehicles and drivers effectively, you need data, and much of it comes under the ‘personal’ category. And, seeing as GDPR compliance will be a statutory requirement, it’s crucial you understand what actions to take. Read More >>
26 February 2018
Employees will naturally be wary of your plans to watch them more closely, and some may react badly. It’s crucial that you’re careful about how you implement telematics if you’re to avoid causing more harm than good. Read More >>
30 January 2018
It could be argued that, for consumers, the delivery of a product is the most important part of the online shopping experience, but it’s something that so many sellers still haven’t quite mastered. Recent research has shown, in fact, that failed deliveries are costing UK businesses hundreds of millions of pounds each year, with peak purchasing periods like Christmas and Black Friday proving particularly pricey for retailers. Read More >>
03 January 2018
Running a logistics operation is no simple task, especially if you’re in charge of a large fleet. One way many fleet managers are making their jobs easier, though, is by investing in GPS tracking. Having greater visibility of staff and vehicle locations can make a real difference to productivity and costs. In this feature, we’ve compiled some of the biggest reasons to invest in GPS tracking for your fleet. Read More >>
23 October 2017
Even in its simplest form, an electronic proof-of-delivery (EPOD) system is likely to improve your business’s operations significantly. To get the most from your investment, however, you need something that meets your needs specifically.
Rather than assume all businesses are the same, we’ve created an innovative EPOD solution that offers fantastic flexibility. There are plenty of ways to integrate the PODStar system with your business – this feature highlights five great examples Read More >>
13 September 2017
Digital technologies have now infiltrated most industries, and they’re drastically changing the way companies operate. Despite all the benefits on offer and impressive results to show, however, so many still depend on paper daily. Handwritten forms, printed invoices and scribbled signatures might seem like the ‘done’ things, but there is a better way. Going paperless can bring various rewards for logistics and delivery businesses – and not all are obvious. Read More >>
25 July 2017
Today’s delivery drivers have a lot to think about while they’re on their rounds: multiple mobile devices, confusing paperwork, navigation systems and more. It needn’t be the case, however. Technologies like those provided by TouchStar can be used to bring everything together, reducing the risk of human error and boosting overall productivity. Read More >>
01 July 2017
Digital signatures save time and resources but it’s vital to be aware of the laws that govern their use and how to ensure your business obtains the right information when delivering goods. Find out about the electronic signature options available and the protection on offer for your business. Read More >>
09 June 2017
The logistics industry is one of the fastest moving in the UK. It’s also one of the most influenced by new technology – both directly and indirectly – meaning that there are more options and increased flexibility for logistics businesses and consumers alike. Read More >>
22 May 2017
A look at the effect that Amazon has had upon delivery services. Its constant attempts to get products to customers faster and more conveniently have set the standard for retailers and couriers worldwide, while providing plenty of inspiration for those looking to compete. Read More >>
19 May 2017
Our innovative vehicle inspection system is designed to help drivers stay compliant and even improve productivity with minimal fuss, allowing defect reports, to be submitted at any time so problems get fixed quickly and easily. Read More >>
05 May 2017
There’s no doubting that Podstar’s innovative electronic proof-of-delivery (EPOD) system will help your business become more productive and efficient, but only if your team uses it properly. Here are our steps you can take to ensure drivers remain engaged throughout the transition and beyond. Read More >>
20 April 2017
Logistics businesses generate huge volumes of data. Now, the DVSA want your information and by so you’ll be part of their earned recognition scheme. Find out more. Read More >>
19 April 2017
Founded in 2014, Fuel Transport Solutions (FTS) Limited, based in Central Scotland, delivers fuel predominantly throughout Scotland and Northern England. The organisation required a system that could optimise the scheduling and tracking of vehicles, as well as automate the proof of delivery process. After a thorough examination of available systems, Jim Anderson (Managing Director) opted for the PODStar system from Manchester-based TouchStar Technologies. Read More >>
13 April 2017
Adequate maintenance of your fleet of vehicles can cut your business’s running costs and streamline spending. By maintaining your vehicles properly – whether they’re HGVs, vans or cars – you stand to make significant savings in the long run. Read More >>
14 March 2017
There are some real benefits to providing an excellent delivery service. From sophisticated tracking systems to keeping costs low and acting on feedback – we have rounded up the best ways you can improve what you offer Read More >>
02 March 2017
Stories of delivery fails are becoming increasingly popular in newspapers and across social media. From parcels ending up on customer’s roofs to those left out in the elements, customers are starting to make their opinions clear by using alternative suppliers. Technology such as our Electronic Proof of Delivery system can help to prevent this. Read More >>
13 February 2017
HGV drivers are required, by law, to undertake a daily walk-around check of their vehicle before they begin their shift and use the vehicle. The comprehensive check needs to be recorded to show it has been carried out and traditionally this has been a time-consuming and paperwork heavy task. However, digital technology developments are now making this task a lot easier. Read More >>
10 February 2017
With so many stages and steps; multiple people involved and time pressures throughout, the delivery process has long been seen as complex, but with the use of new technology such as the EPOD system, simplicity is right around the corner. Read More >>
10 February 2017
A recent report looking at the logistics sector in the UK has shown a slight rise in confidence among businesses. Following four successive reports of a fall in confidence levels, this rise is seen as significant, although the level still remains lower than the highs of 2014 and 2015. Read More >>
27 January 2017
Figures from the most recent Christmas shopping period show that delivery, and the concerns customers have about poor delivery, played a big part in where people chose to shop. The JDA and Centiro Christmas Consumer Pulse report 2016 has revealed that almost a quarter of online Christmas shoppers ordered items earlier than planned due to delivery restrictions, and nearly 19% said they chose to shop in-store rather than online due to worries about the reliability of poor delivery. Read More >>
24 November 2016
If you were asked to consider who is the most important person in the delivery journey - who would you say? The product supplier, the driver of the delivery vehicle or the customer who will be getting the goods? Read More >>
22 November 2016
Many business owners assume that the products they supply and the prices they charge are their biggest concerns. In fact, the process to deliver those products is just as important. Unless customers receive their orders in a timely, secure and professional manner, they’re unlikely to ever buy from you again. Read More >>
30 September 2016
The novelty of buying products online and having them delivered directly to the front door has well and truly worn off. It’s now so normal that some people shop exclusively in this way, securing everything from clothing and electronics to takeaways and groceries via their favourite retailers’ websites. Read More >>
30 September 2016
The ongoing chat around drones has never been exclusively linked to a specific industry or purpose –they have potential uses in so many areas of life and business, from photography right through to the military. Read More >>
06 September 2016
The notion of delivering products and documents directly has existed for thousands of years, but the process has evolved a fair bit over time. Advancements in technology, for example, have allowed history’s couriers to move from horse and cart to fast-yet-efficient bikes, cars, vans and lorries. All for the benefit of both sender and recipient. Read More >>
06 September 2016
Proof of delivery (POD) plays a crucial operational role for businesses across the world. It allows them – and their customers – to keep track of products as they move through the chain to their final destination. For maximum benefit, however, it must be done in the right way. Read More >>
10 June 2016
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21 April 2016
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23 August 2013
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