Protemp, the driver recruitment arm of right4staff, is differentiating itself from rivals by focussing on legal compliance and safe service, according to its managing director, Andrew Blakesley.

Blakesley, who joined in March from Manpower, added: "Previously, Protemp was a very average firm but since March it has gone from strength to strength." He said the improved performance was partly due to the introduction of regional managers, new people, IT systems, training and increased marketing.

"Now we're moving to phase two — introducing a proper sales culture. We want to offer a quality, legal and safe product," he told Recruiter. In this phase, Protemp has introduced business breakfasts with transport lawyer Stephen Kirkbright, to inform staff of legal changes, such as rules that will apply to drivers' hours from April.

"Firms will have to work closer with their suppliers, as they are mutually legally responsible. Records must be kept," said Blakesley. He added that new regulations and falling margins are encouraging consolidation. "I get approached all the time by people wanting to sell me their firms. It's a challenging but exciting time for the market.

"We would consider an acquisition because we've not quite got full UK coverage. A driving school would also be on our wish list."

Goacher has spent the past 16 years working in driver recruitment in roles including driver trainer, driving instructor, contract manager, branch manager and operations manager.