How Atlas® Plans to Leverage Recent Success to Accelerate Future Growth
After decades in the moving industry, you develop certain instincts. One of them is a feel for the road you are on, and we can say with confidence that Atlas® Van Lines is on the right track. The road ahead is clear and full of opportunities, and we’re ready to leverage our recent success and accelerate our growth by building on the strong foundation we’ve established over the past few years.
A SOLID FINANCIAL FOUNDATION
Despite a challenging economic climate over the past year, Atlas has achieved significant financial growth. This wasn’t due to chance—it was the result of strategic planning, operational excellence, and a relentless focus on efficiency and innovation. These efforts have allowed us to maintain a strong financial position, even as the housing sector has struggled. As interest rates begin to drop and the economy shows signs of recovery, particularly in the housing market, Atlas is perfectly poised to take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead.
THE ROAD TO SUCCESS IS DRIVEN BY OUR AGENTS
At Atlas, our Agents are not just partners—they are the driving force behind our achievements. From day one, our President and COO, Ryan McConnell, has recognized the value of agent knowledge and experience. When Ryan and his team set their goals, they made it clear that listening to our Agents, the true experts, would be key to our strategy. Their feedback and participation in special committees have directly shaped the decisions that guide our strategic direction.
Both U.S. and Canadian Agents have played a crucial role in helping us understand the challenges and opportunities within the market. Their insights have been invaluable in driving our structural enhancements. We’ve not only reorganized departments to improve efficiency but also placed new leaders in key positions. Ben Johnson has stepped in as Senior Director of Operations for Atlas Van Lines, ensuring that our operational strategies are executed with precision. Lauren Piekos, our new VP of Business Development, is leading efforts to expand our market reach and forge new partnerships. Additionally, Ryan Parmenter, our Chief Information Officer (CIO), is steering our technological initiatives to ensure they align with our broader strategic goals, all dedicated to capturing data and other important insights to enhance decision-making.
EMBRACING CHANGE FOR ENHANCED SUPPORT AND COLLABORATION
Change is the heartbeat of progress, and at Atlas Headquarters, we're setting the stage for a bold future. By reimagining our organizational structure, we're not just adapting; we're revolutionizing the way we empower our Atlas Agents, Professional Van Operators (PVOs), and employees. These dynamic changes are catalysts, propelling us toward unprecedented efficiency and productivity.
PROACTIVE MEASURES DRIVE ATLAS FORWARD
Safety is a top priority at Atlas, and part of those structural changes involves emphasizing continuous improvement for PVOs. The safety department recently expanded its team and now comprises three key areas: compliance, fleet, and safety. With a broader emphasis on managing training needs and platforms, the focus has shifted from basic compliance to proactive safety measures. This new guidance and support structure aims to improve safety scores and sets up comprehensive training for the entire fleet. According to Diane Anderson, Director of Safety for Atlas, "All changes have been implemented to ensure we are proactive rather than reactive." She says the installation of cameras has enabled her team to anticipate and address behaviors before accidents occur.
DRIVING EFFICIENCY WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
At the core of these changes are the advancements in technology put in place at Atlas Headquarters. Chief Information Officer Ryan Parmenter says, "The strategic partnerships with vendors enable the integration of new technology into the Atlas ecosystem. This approach frees up the IT team to focus on innovation and integration rather than day-to-day support." The new technology benefits both staff at Atlas Headquarters and field agents, providing faster surveys, estimates, and improved customer communication. Parmenter says Atlas can use this technology to respond to customers faster and create more opportunities for repeat business. Another key benefit of these technological changes is access to enhanced dashboards and data analysis tools, which are unlocking the power of data and leading to better business decisions.
ENHANCING FLEET AND SERVICE OPERATIONS
Another exciting change comes from Atlas Terminal Company (ATC). ATC recently introduced a Mobile Trailer Service within a 60-mile radius, with plans for expansion. This service aids agents and customers on-site, enhancing the Atlas support network. Additionally, increased diesel repair services at the Evansville location and beyond are set to improve operational efficiency.
Meanwhile, under the leadership of Troy Zahrt, Atlas Corporate Fleet Operations recently consolidated. This consolidation reduces deadhead expenses, improves customer service, streamlines processes, and ensures consistency. One of the greatest advantages of these changes is the enhancement of collaboration and the improvement of transparent communication. A significant partnership has been formed between the newly unified Corporate Fleet and ATC. The collaboration provides support for PVOs, addressing roadside issues swiftly and prioritizing safety.
