Marshall’s Transport Marks 80 Years of Growth in the UK Logistics Industry
From Humble Beginnings to National Success
Marshall's Transport, a Worcestershire-based logistics firm, is celebrating 80 years in business, marking a legacy of resilience, growth, and strong family leadership. Founded in 1945 by Alan Marshall, the company started with a single van delivering meat around Evesham before expanding into fresh produce distribution and later, national logistics. By 1985, Marshall's Transport had developed into a 54-vehicle fleet with a national footprint when George Simpsontook over the business from the Marshall family.
Today, at 84 years old, George remains actively involved, working part-time while his son Brian Simpson leads operations as Commercial Director.
Expanding Infrastructure and Services
Now operating from a 100,000 sq. ft BRC-accredited warehouse in Pershore, with 40 acres of hardstanding outdoor storage, Marshall's Transport has evolved into a specialist in ambient food products and printed matter logistics. George Simpson recalls how acquiring the company and relocating it to the former 73-acre airfield site provided a firm foundation for expansion, enabling the business to venture into international logistics, transporting goods to France and Italy.
"We had a sound footing and storage facilities, which enabled us to start transporting internationally too. We were sending three lorries a week to France and Italy, returning with shotgun cartridges, wine, and marble," said George.
Strengthening Local Operations with Pallet-Track
However, overseas expansion came at a cost--impacting local operations.
To counter this, Marshall's Transport joined the Pallet-Track network in 2012, shifting focus back to domestic freight.
"When we were travelling all over the country, those vehicles were lost to local work. The network is a brilliant idea, splitting deliveries among members and reducing strain on long-haul drivers," George explained.
The Pallet-Track network, headquartered in Wolverhampton, is a collaborative system of over 90 logistics companies, streamlining national deliveries by consolidating freight at key UK hubs for final-mile distribution.
A Legacy of Family Leadership and Hard Work
The next generation of the Simpson family ensures Marshall's Transport continues to thrive. Brian Simpson, now 59, took a hands-on approach to learning the business, starting as a workshop apprentice under the watchful eye of his father.
"When I brought Brian into the business, I sent him straight into the workshop to learn how to strip and rebuild engines. The team thought he was a 'spy in the camp,' but it all worked out," George recalled.
Today, Brian oversees operations, ensuring the company remains competitive and efficient in an ever-evolving logistics landscape.
Beyond logistics, Marshall's Transport remains deeply involved in the local community, regularly supporting Worcester and Evesham carnivals by donating vehicle use.
"This community has supported us for 80 years--it's only right that we give back," George said.
As Marshall's Transport enters its ninth decade, its leadership, dedication to service, and commitment to innovation and community support continue to position it as a key player in UK logistics.
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