North Hykeham-based Cartwright Bros (Haulage) Ltd, which recently celebrated 80 years in business, has entered administration and closed its doors as of June 20, 2024. The administration process is being handled by Kroll.
Founded in 1944 by brothers John, James, William, and Keith Cartwright to serve the agricultural sector, the company has been a prominent player in the haulage industry. Notably, in the early 1950s, it delivered sandbags along the east coast to combat storm damage. Over the decades, it has served major businesses, primarily in agriculture, as well as internationally renowned companies.
For the past 30 years, second-generation cousins John and Jamie Cartwright have been at the helm, continuing the family legacy. The company operated over 60 vehicles nationwide, 24/7, from its depots in Lincolnshire and was a shareholder member of The Pall-Ex Group.
Mark Neave, Business Development Manager at Cartwright Bros, expressed deep gratitude for the support from industry professionals, competitors, and former business partners. He also praised the solidarity among former employees, highlighting the positive impact John and Jamie Cartwright had on many lives.
Jamie Cartwright shared the emotional impact of the closure, citing numerous challenges faced over the past decade, including rising diesel prices, a difficult economy, the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukrainian war, and Brexit-related lorry driver shortages. These factors, coupled with changes in government legislation, made it impossible for Cartwright Bros to continue operating.
John Cartwright reflected on the honor of running the family business, which had a turnover of £12 million in recent years. He acknowledged the sadness of closing down, especially after celebrating eight decades in business earlier this year. He expressed gratitude to the loyal staff and emphasized their ongoing support in finding new employment opportunities.
A former employee, who worked with Cartwright Bros for 15 years, described the closure as shocking and devastating, noting the immense pressures currently facing the haulage industry. He pointed out that the cost of living and operating has become unsustainable, leading to widespread difficulties within the sector.
In December, it was reported that over 450 UK haulage businesses had gone out of business in the previous 12 months, highlighting the severe challenges facing the industry. The Cartwright Bros story underscores the urgent need for measures to support and sustain this vital sector.
