A FIRM transforming milk cartons into outdoor furniture is eyeing further success after tying up a £150,000 transport deal.

Marmax Products is working with family operator Stiller Warehousing and Distribution.

Bosses say the deal comes after the companies met at the Durham Oktoberfest business expo.

Marmax, based on Tanfield Lea South Industrial Estate, near Stanley, County Durham, employs nearly 30 people and has carved an industry reputation after turning millions of milk containers into products such as seats, picnic benches, bridges, bins and dog agility ramps.

However, Paul King, production manager at Marmax, said Stiller will help the business strengthen its standing further by improving its delivery process and bolstering existing relationships with customers that include the Dogs Trust, schools, theme parks, pubs and restaurants.

Praising the impact of Durham Oktoberfest, which Marmax attended for the first time last year, Mr King said: “I am always looking at ways to improve our efficiency and reduce costs, which ultimately means we can offer customers a better service.

“After Oktoberfest I met with the team at Stiller to learn more and quickly became sure they were right for us.

“Appointing them as our distributors was an easy decision.”

Stiller, based in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, has just completed a £750,000 expansion to extend warehouse operations, and Matthew Stiller, managing director,said its Marmax deal was further proof of the business’ capabilities.

He said: “We offer clients an excellent service, which is why we’re so good at retaining our existing customer base and bringing on board new companies like Marmax.”

Mr Stiller confirmed Stiller, founded more than 60 years ago when a former German prisoner of war sold a herd of pigs and bought a truck, will return to Durham Oktoberfest later this year, as will Marmax, for what will be the expo’s tenth anniversary.

Ben Gilhespy, operations director at County Durham Engineering and Manufacturing Network, which organises Oktoberfest, said the companies’ deal typified the event’s ambitions.

He added: “The main aim is to introduce businesses and help them meet potential suppliers and buyers.

“The deal between Marmax and Stiller is the perfect endorsement it works.”

This year’s Durham Oktoberfest will take place on Thursday, October 19, at Newton Aycliffe’s Xcel Centre.