Transport, distribution and warehousing firm Bowker has been awarded the title of Northern Haulage Company of the Year at the 2024 Transport News Awards.
The awards ceremony, organised by Motor Transport’s sister magazine Transport News, took place at the Mercure Hotel in Manchester last Friday (11 October).
The judges said Bowker’s award recognised the Preston-based family firm’s ”unwavering commitment” to innovation, sustainability, and excellence in the transport and logistics sector.
They praised Bowker’s forward-thinking approach, with particular emphasis on its ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology, which has propelled the company towards achieving greater sustainability and operational efficiency.
Bowker’s leadership in adopting greener solutions within the industry also stood out as a key factor in securing the award.
The company hailed its award as testament to Bowker’s “long-standing reputation of excellence in the transport industry.”
It added: “With its focus on driving innovation, improving sustainability, and maintaining the highest standards of service, throughout its 105 year history, Bowker continues to set the benchmarks in the industry today.”
Commenting on the award, director Bill Bowker said: “We owe this recognition to all our colleagues for their hard work, commitment, and dedication.
“There is no higher accolade than being recognised by our customers, peers, trade bodies, and the transport press for our continued service and professional approach.”
Bowker was established in 1919. It operates a fleet of over 225 trucks and 450 trailers and offers over 1.5 million sq ft of warehousing across 11 distribution centres.
Other Transport News 2024 awards included the coveted Industry Lifetime Achievement award which was won by managing director of Earl Transport Peter Hughes.
Meanwhile Ken Devereux was chosen for the Road Haulage Personality of the Year award.
Boughey Distribution managing director Angela Carus was Northern Transport Woman of the Year, Transport Manager of the Year was won by the regional transport manager at Constellation Cold Logistics Fiona Hamilton and Fagan & Whalley picked up Northern Fleet of the Year.
The awards were hosted by ITV News Central presenter Sameena Ali-Khan and comedian and author Ian Moore, with entertainment provided by the magician Sam Fitton.
The former boss of Knights of Old Paul Abbott discussed cybercrime with the 300 attendees, and £2,250 was raised for the industry charity Transaid.
