smol and the Astley distribution site: our position

Date 02.09.2026

Following our statement on 19th August we've continued working to fully understand the situation.

Through our investigations so far we understand Whistl has introduced measures to address the concerns raised by residents impacted by the PLP Astley site. These measures - and feedback from local residents - were recently discussed in a meeting between residents, Wigan Council, and Whistl.

While it’s encouraging to see positive steps being taken, including changes intended to reduce night-time disruptions, we recognise this is an ongoing conversation. For now, we confirm that our response remains in place: no smol parcels are being processed at Astley. We remain committed to giving everyone involved the time and space needed to find a lasting resolution.

Date 19.08.2026
We want to be clear about smol’s association with the Astley depot: following discussion with Whistl, we have agreed that no smol parcels will be processed through the Astley distribution site until this important matter has been fully understood and resolved.

This gives Whistl the time it needs to progress and conclude their active engagement with local residents and the council. The people living around Astley matter to us. They deserve to have their concerns properly heard and addressed, and we are assured Whistl is committed to taking positive action to reach a resolution.

We’ll stay close to developments at Astley and meanwhile we will take the time to carry out our own investigation. Changing a significant part of our delivery network isn’t something we can do overnight. Only once we fully understand the situation, and the issues have been resolved to our satisfaction, will we make a final decision about what is right for smol and our customers going forward.

Being a B Corp matters enormously to us. Trying to make business better for people and planet has been part of smol from the very beginning. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved alongside our customers, and we stand by the values and ethics that have shaped smol.

None of that means we should be beyond scrutiny. When something involving one of our partners raises concerns, we believe our responsibility is to understand what is happening, ask questions and act where we can. Which is exactly what we are intent on doing.