This new chapter brings together two trusted names in the transport and logistics industry. Leadership teams at both Williams Shipping and GIF have stated that this strategic partnership is focused on long-term collaboration and customer service excellence.

The day-to-day operations at GIF will remain unchanged. The company will continue to trade under the GIF Transport and Logistics name, with existing teams and management remaining in place to ensure continuity and reliability for all customers.

Jonathan Williams, Managing Director (Williams Shipping Logistics), commented:

“Our transport team have already built up a solid working relationship with GIF as a supplier and a customer This new partnership is built on shared values and a joint commitment to delivering first-class service. By combining the strengths of both companies, we’re creating a stronger foundation for future growth while ensuring that customers continue to receive the high standards they expect.”

GIF’s management team has welcomed the partnership, viewing it as a significant opportunity to strengthen the business while continuing to support their loyal customer base.

Brian Pirie, Director (GIF Transport and Logistics) also stated:

“We’re excited to join forces with Williams Shipping. This allows us to maintain the exceptional service our customers rely on, while also securing the long-term growth and sustainability of the company. Together, Williams Shipping and GIF will collaborate closely to build on their strong reputations and deliver enhanced value to customers across the UK logistics sector.”

In addition to the purchase of GIF, and in-line with their commitment of expanding its presence in key UK locations, Williams Shipping has acquired a new site in Dyce which will allow it to further enhance services across its business divisions.

The newly acquired site will become a critical operations hub for several of the company’s core services, including:

• GIF Transport and Logistics headquarters - offering valuable operational and warehousing space in a high-demand industrial area.
• Williams Marine Lubricants – support storage, distribution, and customer service operations for its rapidly growing lubricants division.
• Willbox, Williams Shipping’s specialist container business – the site will enhance container sales and hire in northeast Scotland.

Jonathan Williams further commented:

“This land acquisition aligns perfectly with our strategic vision to grow sustainably while supporting the industries we serve. Aberdeen remains a vibrant marine and logistics hub with a wealth of skills and knowledge across many key sectors. The region is at the forefront of the energy transition and home to Europe’s leading marine support centres for the offshore energy industry. This investment will help us better serve Williams Shipping and GIF customers and provide space and services that support the wider logistics community.”

GIF will continue to run as its own entity with the same name, but now as a subsidiary of Williams Shipping. The Aberdeen site is expected to become operational later this year, with phased development plans already underway.

About williams Shipping
Founded in 1894, Williams Shipping is a fifth-generation family-owned business offering a broad range of marine and logistics services, including vessel charter, port services, cargo yard facilities and handling/storage, transport solutions, marine lubricants distribution, and container hire, sale and conversion (Willbox). From several strategically located bases in the UK, including Southampton, Milford Haven and Aberdeen, Williams Shipping offer a wealth of expertise and services to a diverse range of industries including construction, civil engineering, manufacturing, defence, shipping, renewables, oil and gas, marine and inland waterways, across the UK and Europe. With a large workforce, many of whom are long-term employees, Williams Shipping is highly invested in its corporate social responsibility, apprenticeship schemes, supporting the local community and is fully committed to establishing a green culture across the business.