Leeds-based ISL currently works with around 140 local authorities across the UK in areas such as waste management, recycling and route planning. Its primary focus is the delivery of innovative software solutions to allow the optimal management of assets, leading to more efficient and effective services, with route optimisation seen as a key service.
Route optimisation involves identifying the most efficient service routes while considering constraints such as required passes, service speeds, and one-way street restrictions. It supports organisations such as councils, airports, and contractors in planning the most efficient routes to fulfil contractual requirements, taking into account factors such as lowest cost, required stop points, fuel efficiency, and fastest or shortest distances.
The relationship with Aebi Schmidt dates back to the summer of 2025 in a joint winter route planning project with Wakefield Council. The formalisation of the new strategic partnership, and its launch, is expected in mid-March.
Stuart Henshaw, Business Development Director at ISL, said that, although the initial focus between the two businesses had been on winter route optimisation, there was no reason why the route planning solution could not be applied to wider street cleansing operations.
“Our experience over 20 years of working in this field shows us that savings of 10-15% in time, fuel and carbon are easily possible for end users following our route optimisation guidance. This can apply equally to winter maintenance and other street cleansing operations.“
Andy Clewes, ISL Client Services Director who led the project with Wakefield Council, added:“ After a very successful joint project between ourselves and Aebi Schmidt at Wakefield, we are delighted to now be working together across a wider arena.“
Aebi Schmidt UK Sales Manager, Matt Elderkin, commented: “Our exciting new partnership with Integrated Skills will allow us to offer customers specific route optimisation solutions by uploading the relevant data directly into the ES control panel in our spreader and sweeper line-up.
“This will allow the delivery of more pinpoint and targeted route planning for end users, bringing operational efficiencies and enhanced safety measures, and we are delighted to be able to offer this new service to our customers.“