With a history spanning over 100 years, Bowker’s have a proud history dating back to 1919. Bowker is one of the UK’s longest-standing logistics operators with the 4th generation of the family now working within the business.
The company was established in 1919 when William Bowker used his war gratuity to buy his first vehicle. He began making local deliveries in Lancashire earning a reputation for a pioneering spirit and an innovative approach to the industry’s needs. It wasn't long before he'd assembled one of the largest fleets in the area.
We’re incredibly proud of our history. The business has always aimed to be at the forefront of the logistics sector reflected by a series 'firsts' and industry awards.
William Henry Bowker establishes the business in Blackburn using his Army gratuity
The business continues to grow through the twenties
The General Strike provides further growth transporting fruit overnight from Liverpool Docks to Covent Garden market
Bowker continues to prosper until 1949 when all UK transport assets were nationalised. Bowker continue to operate as warehouse keepers
A change of government heralds de-nationalisation. William Bowker buys back a number of vehicles and rebuilds his transport business
The business is once again at the forefront of the UK haulage industry
Bowker takes first steps into Europe moving carpet machinery to Holland. The new service proves popular and experiences major growth
Hull office opens to handle increasing European volumes
A base is established in Zeebrugge to manage movements to and from Europe
Our first dedicated contract hire, working in partnership with packaging and chemical company Huntsman
The company diversifies with the acquisition of Clock Garage in Accrington – the authorised BMW dealership for East Lancashire
New head office and operations centre opens in Bamber Bridge, Preston
CBA WINNERS
CBA WINNERS
CBA WINNERS
Voted one of the top 20 Greatest British hauliers of all time
In November 2016, Bowker completes the purchase of Potter Logistics warehousing and distribution operations who were crowned 2015 Motor Transport Haulier of the Year.
The acquisition meant that Bowker became one of the UK's largest privately owned logistics operators with over 175 vehicles, 300 trailers and 1.2 million ft2 of warehousing
2019 marked Bowker’s 100th Year Anniversary. Bowker unveiled a new livery to launch a year of centenary celebration.
At the Road Haulage Association’s 75th Anniversary Luncheon at the Hilton Hotel, London Bowker were awarded the Diamond Haulier Award. This unique award, to mark the RHA’s 75th Anniversary, was given to an operator that has demonstrated professionalism, brand distinction and excellence as an employer.
Bowker were recognised in the CILT’s Top 30 UK logistics service providers. The criteria included; annual reports, the European Commission, financial, human resource factors, performance and professional accreditation.
W. H. Bowker International was recognised for maintaining and strengthening the European service despite the unprecedented challenges the industry faced that year.
W.H. Bowker Limited are pleased to announce that it has acquired Greater Manchester logistics business James Nuttall (Transport) Limited & its commercial MOT testing centre, Queensway Commercials Limited, in a move that further strengthens Bowker’s logistics business.
W.H. Bowker Limited are delighted to announce that it has acquired a new warehousing facility based in Thorne, Doncaster. The 165, 000 sq.ft building increases Bowker’s warehousing estate, assisting with both new and existing customers with their plans for growth.
In 2023, Bowker and Volvo are celebrating their 50-year anniversary recognising a 'true partnership', with a special livery.
CBA winners - Chemical Business Association's Responsible Care – Logistics Service Members Award
Bowker have been recognised once again in the CILT's Top 30 UK logistics service providers for 2024.
Bowker were awarded the 'Northern Haulage Company of the Year' at the Transport News awards 2024. This recognition reflects our ongoing efforts to innovate and lead in the transport industry. The judges highlighted our continued investment in technology as the driving force behind our journey toward greater sustainability.
In 2019, we celebrated 100 years of trading. To mark the milestone the business commissioned a special centenary livery for the fleet. The livery replicated the vintage blue, red and gold colour scheme used by the company in previous years.
The company also hosted a number of celebratory events throughout the year including a family festival at Hoghton Tower where over 650 guests, including colleagues past and present, attended.
Email us at enquiries@bowkergroup.co.uk, call us on 01772 628800 or complete our quick form.
