G&A News
Director’s Introduction
As we pass the midpoint of 2025, we are delighted to share another packed edition of the Gray & Adams Newsletter, highlighting the achievements, milestones, and partnerships that continue to shape our business.
At the heart of this edition are our valued customers. We are proud to showcase their stories, beginning with Keep it Cool on pages 4–5, followed by case studies from Strachans (pages 16–17) and Macs Trucks (pages 18–19). Pages 10–13 pay tribute to industry legend G&J Jack, whose story is woven into the fabric of our industry. These partnerships reflect the innovation, trust, and collaboration that define Gray & Adams. This year has also seen us recognised at the highest levels. On page 6, we share an update on our King’s Award achievement alongside our ongoing investment in safety and compliance across the business. We remain committed to the well-being of our teams and the strength of our operations, ensuring Gray & Adams remains a name synonymous with quality.
Developing the next generation of talent is equally important. We are delighted to welcome our new Apprentice Intake for 2025 (pages 8–9), building on our tradition of nurturing skilled professionals who will help shape our future.
In this issue, we also celebrate community. Page 7 features our support of Dunfermline Bowling Club, and page 20 showcases our honour to have been recognised by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service for our community support.
Innovation remains central to our journey. On page 14, we showcase our cutting-edge double-deck trailer at the Road Transport Expo 2025, a reflection of our drive to deliver market-leading solutions.
As always, we take time to celebrate the people who make Gray & Adams what it is. We are delighted to introduce our new Finance Manager, Valerie Johnstone, on page 15. We also mark the long service achievements of John Whyte (25 years) and Kenny McKenzie (40 years) on page 21 and shine a spotlight on the retirement of Colin Munro (page 22). In addition, we feature a Staff Spotlight on Jennifer Gilbert (page 23), who shares her insights into her role and contribution to the business.
This edition is a true reflection of what makes Gray & Adams special: our people, our customers, and our community. We are proud of all that has been achieved in 2025 so far and look forward to the successes still to come throughout the remainder of the year.
Thank you to our staff, customers, and suppliers for your continued commitment and support.
James Gray OBE and Peter Gray OBE Joint Managing Directors
Pages 10 – 13 Pages 16 – 17
Customer Case Study — Keep it Cool
As Gray & Adams continues to support businesses across the UK with premium temperature-controlled transport solutions, one partnership that truly embodies our commitment to customer-focused innovation is with Keep it Cool—a dynamic, family-run temperature-controlled distribution company based in the UK.
Celebrating a Decade of Cool Deliveries
Founded over ten years ago, Keep it Cool marked its 10th anniversary in September 2024. From humble beginnings, the company has grown into a highly versatile and responsive logistics provider, operating a fleet of 20 vehicles—including 16 HGVs and 3 vans—capable of handling everything from pharmaceutical products to fresh food across the entire UK. Whether delivering to Peterhead, the Isle of Wight, Cornwall, or Aberdeen, the Keep it Cool team prides itself on being flexible, dependable, and always ready to find a solution.
A Trusted, Long-Term Partnership
Keep it Cool first came to Gray & Adams in 2018, and since then, the relationship has only strengthened. A second vehicle was added in 2019, and from 2021 onwards, all new trucks ordered by Keep it Cool have been Gray & Adams builds— now representing 14 of their vehicles. With further slots booked into 2026 and 2027, the business continues to invest in our equipment with confidence.
“We don’t see it as a new relationship... We’ve built a consistent fleet with Gray & Adams because of the trust, the quality, and the support they offer.” said
Quentin Villard, General Manager at Keep it Cool.
Tailored Solutions with Technical Expertise
As a company transporting goods on behalf of others—rather than their own products—Keep it Cool requires solutions that are flexible and meet the broadest possible operational needs. One example of this adaptability is the decision to plate a 7.5-tonne vehicle at 8.3 tonnes, boosting payload capacity to better meet the demands of heavier modern loads. This change was the result of collaborative discussions between Keep it Cool, Gray & Adams, and the vehicle manufacturer, DAF.
Quentin says,
“Gray & Adams helped guide us through the technical process,”
“They gave us confidence to try the upgraded spec in 2024, and aftera successful trial, we’ve gone ahead again.”
Adding Value Beyond the Vehicle
What makes the partnership so valuable isn’t just the quality of Gray & Adams' refrigerated bodies—it’s the people and the service. From technical advice on fridge conversion to open, solution-focused communication, Gray & Adams’ team has become a trusted advisor to Keep it Cool.
“They really listen to what we need. They’re always there to solve problems and help us make the right choices to get the best product for our operation— at a very competitive cost.”
Looking Ahead, Together
As Keep it Cool continues to grow and adapt to the evolving needs of its customers, the company sees its relationship with Gray & Adams as key to its future success.
“We might be a small business ordering two to three vehicles a year, but we feel looked after. That’s one of the main reasons we stay with Gray & Adams. The support is fantastic, and we know we’re getting quality that lasts.”
At Gray & Adams, we’re proud to play a part in Keep it Cool’s story and are excited to keep delivering innovation and reliability for years to come.
Gray & Adams’ King’s Award Update
Earlier this year, Gray & Adams was awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation, one of the highest recognitions a UK business can receive.
This award celebrates and recognises the company’s groundbreaking refrigerated lifting deck semi-trailer, featuring multiple temperature compartments and an aerodynamic tapered body – a product that continues to set industry standards for innovation and efficiency.
While arrangements for the official presentation are still being finalised, the Lord-Lieutenant has advised that while a confirmed date is not yet available, we are hopeful that this important visit will be concluded very shortly, when the award will be presented on behalf of His Majesty the King.
Investing in Safety and Compliance Across the Business
At Gray & Adams, our commitment to health, safety, and continuous improvement has seen a significant boost this year, with strong progress in employee training and development.
Since the start of the year, we’ve rolled out MyCompliance, a powerful platform that hosts a wide range of iHasco online training courses. We're pleased to report that a large number of employees have already engaged with and completed substantial portions of this training. The courses cover essential topics such as cyber security, bullying and harassment, and other key compliance areas—helping us build a safer, more respectful, and better-informed workplace.
In addition to the online training, we’ve had fantastic uptake in our more advanced health and safety courses. Notably, around 50 employees have now completed the IOSH Level 3 Managing Safely course. This group includes line managers, assistant line managers, and safety representatives, a clear demonstration of our shared commitment to leading from the front when it comes to safety.
The Directors would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to every member of the Gray & Adams team. It is through the continued efforts and support of our workforce that such an achievement has been made possible. This recognition belongs not only to the company but to all of you who contribute to our ongoing success.
We’d also like to recognise the completion of Accident Investigation Training and Root Cause Analysis Training, equipping teams with the tools to understand and learn from incidents to prevent recurrence.
“We’re incredibly proud of the progress so far and would like to thank everyone who has participated in training so far, as a vital part of building a safer and stronger Gray & Adams.”
— Davy Smith, Group Quality Manager
Gray & Adams Dunfermline Proudly Supports Abbeyview Bowling Club
Gray & Adams Dunfermline is delighted to support Abbeyview Bowling Club through the sponsorship of their new team wear, reflecting our continued commitment to supporting our employees and the communities in which they live and work.
The presentation of the new attire to the men’s team at Abbeyview was recently made by two members of the Gray & Adams team, Sara Simpson (Finance Manager) and Jennifer Gilbert (H&S Advisor and HR Assistant). Abbeyview’s Match Secretary Paul O’Donnell proudly joined them in showcasing the newly branded tops.
The club’s team wear was supplied by Harlequin, a specialist in high-performance sportswear, which has also launched an online shop for Abbeyview. The Gray & Adams name is proudly displayed both on the team clothing and throughout the online store. Harlequin, is well known in the motorsport world and supplies kit for some of the UK’s most prominent organisations. We are pleased to collaborate with such a reputable brand to help support grassroots sport.
Paul O’Donnell expressed his appreciation, saying:
“On behalf of Abbeyview Bowling Club, I would like to thank Gray & Adams sincerely for sponsoring our club attire, our members are delighted with the design.”
Sara Simpson added:
“At Gray & Adams, we’re proud to support local sports clubs whenever the opportunity arises, especially when our own colleagues are involved. We have several team members who play for Abbeyview, and it’s fantastic to see the team representing the Gray & Adams name on the green.”
Jennifer Gilbert shared a personal connection to the club: “My partner Connor plays for Abbeyview and has won National Titles, including being crowned British Champion last year. He’s thrilled with the new tops, it’s a great way for our company to support a local club that brings together people of all ages.”
Gray & Adams is proud to play a part in this initiative, supporting both our colleagues and the wider community through meaningful partnerships.
Gray & Adams Apprentice & Trainee Intake 2025
Gray & Adams is delighted to welcome a new generation of apprentices and trainees in 2025, strengthening our teams across the business and reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to developing skilled professionals for the future. Every person featured here has joined us this year as part of our 2025 apprentice and trainee intake.
2024 Intakes
Electrical Apprentice
Ritchie Burnett (12/08/2024)
Welding Apprentices
Jake McCouaig (26/08/2024), Marcus McNeil (26/08/2024), Cameron O’Brien (26/08/2024)
Welding Apprentice
Lachlan Cowie (21/10/2024)
Repairs – Engineering Maintenance
Cameron Ritchie (18/11/2024)
Early 2025 Intakes
Welding Apprentice
Matas Keras (06/01/2025)
Maintenance – Electrical Apprentice
Cayden Henderson (23/01/2025)
Welding Apprentice
Ronin Morrison (06/02/2023)
Machine Shop Apprentice
Alexander Wisely (26/02/2025)
Completion Trainee (not apprentice)
Kieran Donn (07/04/2025)
Completion Apprentice – Manufacture
Jaiden McLeod (07/04/2025)
Electrical Apprentice
Gabriel Lozurkevic (21/04/2025)
May/June 2025 Intakes
Panel Apprentice – Manufacture
Ryan Thomson (13/05/2025)
Paint Apprentices
Ritchie Wade (26/05/2025), Owen Birnie (02/06/2025)
Joinery Apprentices
Tyler Milne (02/06/2025), Tyler Sim Cruden (09/06/2025)
Electrical Apprentices
Jack Porter (02/06/2025), Saul Barclay (30/06/2025)
Assembly Apprentice – Manufacture
Liam Lynch (17/06/2025)
Doors Apprentice – Manufacture
Jack Maclean (17/06/2025)
Welding Apprentices
Jay Willox (09/06/2025), Mason Towler (09/06/2025),
Callum Esslemont (17/06/2025), Steven Ritchie (17/06/2025),
Aiden Henderson (17/06/2025), Thomas Floyd (23/06/2025), Owen Downie (23/06/2025)
May/June 2025 Intakes (Continued)
Engineering Gradulates
Jacob McDonald (24/06/2025),
Aiden McDonald (30/06/2025)
July 2025 Intakes
Electrical Apprentices
Michael Glegocinski (22/07/2025)
August 2025 Intakes
Purchasing Apprentices – Business Administration –Apprentice
Jamie Gordan (11/08/2025), Taylor Harper (11/08/2025)
Drawing Office Apprentice – Mechanical Engineering –Draughtsperson
Drew Young (11/08/2025)
Completion (DPD) – Manufacture
Kieran Lyons (11/08/2025)
Industry Legend — James Jack | G&J Jack
Gray & Adams interviews industry legend
James Jack, as he delves into the story of G&J Jack.
Tell me a little bit about yourself
“I started as a fisherman and spent six years at sea after an initial four-month stint with the family firm. When I came ashore, I rejoined the company as a fish worker, filleting and skinning dogfish and skate wings. From there, I worked my way up to become a truck driver, market man-buyer, eventually stepping into a mzanagement role alongside my two brothers. Together, we helped build and grow the business.”
Tell me a little bit about the story of G&J Jack
“The roots of G&J Jack go back to the 1930s with my grandmother, Granny Bessie. She would buy fish at the market, fillet and smoke them at home, then carry them in a creel on her back from her home in St Combs around the countryside, sometimes walking up to 20 miles. She would then sell the barter goods in the village, which allowed her to buy another box of fish to process and support her family of seven children through sheer hard work.”
James continues,
My father, George Jack served on H.M.S. Belfast during WWII, rising from Able Bodied Seaman to Chief Petty Officer, eventually earning his wings and flying reconnaissance missions over the Italian planes from Malta. After being demobbed from the RAF at the end of WW2, George accepted my grandmother’s offer to take over her fish round, though she kept one day a week, as her rural customers had become close friends. George bought a second-hand van (more expensive than a new one at the time due to long waiting lists). When his brother James was demobbed, their mother encouraged him to buy another van and expand. Together, George and James formed G&J Jack. Tragically, James passed away in 1970 at just 51, which deeply affected my father. That moment marked the start of my brothers and me taking on more responsibility in the business.
James continues,
From those humble beginnings, the company expanded, employing more staff, running five lorries, buying fish from all over Scotland, and processing it in Fraserburgh. My father’s proudest achievement was moving the operation from a Nissen hut into a purpose-built factory on Harbour Road. Our success has always been built on three core values: top quality, trust, and deep knowledge of the trade, all of which have grown with the business.”
What was your greatest success at G&J Jack?
“One of my proudest achievements was forming a partnership with a French company. That venture grew rapidly — at its peak, we were selling up to 16 Arctic lorries a week, filled to the roof with top-quality fish. ‘QUALITY ASSURED’ was my father’s logo, and we lived by it.”
The first trailer built for G&J Jack with a Gray & Adams one-piece, full five-element panel, and a new and experimental Petter refrigeration unit.
When and how did the partnership begin with Gray & Adams? & why has the partnership lasted so long?
“The partnership with Gray & Adams began in the early 1960s, when they first floored a lorry for my father — RAV 898. Then, in the early 1970s, they built our first refrigerated articulated trailer, OLS 247P, paired with our first DAF truck.
G&J Jack was the first customer to receive the 33-foot Gray & Adams van, built with a one-piece, full five-element panel, which is very familiar to customers today. This trailer was the first of its kind and contained a new and experimental Petter refrigeration unit.
Beyond the great professional relationship and friendship with Gray & Adams, Jimmy Adams married my eldest sister, Margaret. Gray & Adams are second to none, true leaders in refrigerated vehicle manufacturing, and our business relationship continues to this day.”
What does the future look like for G&J Jack? Do you still keep up to date with the goings-on within the business?
“The business is now in the hands of the fourth and fifth generations — my son and two grandsons — and employs around 150 staff. The future looks bright, with trading now stretching across Europe and into the Far East. I’m kept up to date weekly with regular updates from my son and grandsons. My youngest sister Pamela is still working in the office, keeping her finger firmly on the pulse!”
What are you up to now? What are you enjoying in your retirement? Do you miss working?
“I’m now happily retired, confident that the business is in good hands. I enjoy river fishing and, most importantly, spending quality time with the family.”
From the very first collaboration in the 1960s to the projects we work on today, Gray & Adams and G&J Jack have built a partnership that has stood the test of time. More than fifty years on, the relationship remains as strong as ever, driven by a shared commitment to innovation and the creation of bespoke solutions built to last.
Gray & Adams Showcased Cutting-Edge Double-Deck Trailer at Road Transport Expo 2025
Gray & Adams, the UK’s leading manufacturer of temperature-controlled and bespoke trailers, proudly participated in the Road Transport Exhibition 2025 this past June. Attendees visited Gray & Adams at stand O16b to explore the forefront of trailer innovation, where the company presented a James Hall SPAR-branded doubledeck trailer, equipped with a host of cutting-edge features.
This trailer exemplified Gray & Adams’ commitment to sustainable innovation and customer-focused design. At the heart of the display was the hybrid refrigeration unit, which supported reduced emissions and enhanced operational efficiency. Tailored for the specialist needs of James Hall & Co., the trailer incorporated a range of advanced features:
Electric Shutter Doors – Designed for improved reliability, reduced maintenance, quieter operation in urban environments, and enhanced security.
High-Performance Lighting System – Enhanced visibility and safety during loading and unloading.
Tri-Temperature Zones – Provided versatile temperature control for multi-product transportation.
Specialist Tail Lift Configuration – Custom-built for SPAR’s operational requirements, ensuring safe and efficient handling.
Bold SPAR Livery – Demonstrated the synergy between Gray & Adams’ engineering excellence and SPAR’s strong brand presence.
Tandem Axle Urban Semi Trailer – Allowed access to city centres and tight delivery locations, while offering the capacity of a 13.6M semi-trailer.
Brown,
“This exhibition gave us the ideal platform to showcase our innovationled approach and strong customer partnerships,”
Andrew continues,
“Our work with James Hall & Co. on this double-deck trailer highlighted the bespoke capabilities and sustainability priorities we bring to every project.”
Andrew
Sales Director, Doncaster at Gray & Adams says,
Welcoming Our New Finance Manager: Valerie Johnstone
We’re delighted to welcome Valerie Johnstone as Gray & Adams’ new Finance Manager. Valerie brings with her over 25 years of experience in the financial industry and has already hit the ground running since joining us in June. We caught up with her to hear more about her career background, her first impressions of Gray & Adams, and what she’s most looking forward to in her new role.
What’s your background, and what brought you to Gray & Adams?
I’ve spent around 20 years working in the finance industry, mainly within the oil sector and, more recently, in agriculture. Over that time, I’ve worked my way through a variety of finance roles, gradually building up my experience and taking on more responsibility. When the opportunity came up to join Gray & Adams, I felt it was the right moment to take a new path. It’s a chance to bring everything I’ve learned over the years into a new environment, while continuing to challenge myself.
What appealed to you about becoming Finance Manager here?
Gray & Adams is such a well-known and respected business in our area, with a fantastic reputation for success. The role itself felt like a natural fit for me, given the similarities to my previous position, and I knew I could bring skills and knowledge that would be of real value.
As you get settled in, what are you most excited to be working on?
I started in June, and one of the big projects I’ve already been involved in is the implementation of a new system. It’s been exciting to get stuck into that straight away, while also learning how Gray & Adams does things, meeting new colleagues, and putting names to faces. At the moment, I’m very much in “sponge mode” — taking in as much as I can — but it’s great to know that I can also bring some of my own experience to the table. I’ve been through system changes before, so I’m keen to help make this one as smooth and successful as possible for everyone involved.
How have your first impressions of the company and the team been?
Honestly, the team has been lovely! Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming, which has made settling in much easier. There’s a lot to learn, of course, but I feel equally that I’ve got plenty I can contribute to in return. It already feels like a really supportive environment to be part of.
In your view, how does the finance team help drive Gray & Adams’ success?
Right now, the new system is a big focus, and it’s about making sure our processes work not only for the finance team but also for the wider business. Finance is there to provide accurate, timely information and to make processes as efficient as possible, so other teams can focus on what they do best. I think strong processes are key — they help create clarity and confidence across the whole organisation, and that’s where finance can really add value.
And finally, when you’re not at work, how do you like to spend your time?
Life outside of work is busy but fun! I passed my motorbike exam and got my licence in December, so I’m really enjoying getting out on two wheels whenever I can. I also have a 13-year-old daughter who keeps me on my toes, and I love spending time with friends. It’s a nice balance between family, adventure, and a bit of fun.
Customer Case Study — Strachans
Strachans, based in Peterhead and employing around 120 staff, began as a local supplier of food and non-alcoholic beverages to businesses in the area. Over time, the company expanded into offshore supply and now supports 90% of marine traffic in the North Sea. Around 14–15 years ago, Strachans was acquired by global marine supply group Wrist, further strengthening its capabilities and reach, with depots located across multiple regions.
Peter Grant, the Head of Operations, plays a key role in strategic planning and overseeing day-to-day operations to ensure consistent delivery of quality service to customers.
“A lot of what I do is focused on ensuring our logistics are streamlined and that
our customers receive what they need, when they need it — reliably and efficiently.”
Customer Requirement
Strachans values long-standing, local partnerships. As Gray & Adams is based locally, they have been a trusted partner for many years.
“We like to work with local companies wherever possible. If any issues arise, it's important to us that someone is close by and understands our needs. That’s why we’ve continued to work with Gray & Adams for so long.”
The most recent project with Gray & Adams involved working closely with John Burnett and the Gray & Adams team to design and supply an additional 13.6m multi-temp trailer to their fleet. Strachans often require tailored adaptations to help ensure operational efficiency and safety. The trust built over the years allows Strachans to rely on the advice and guidance of John and the team at Gray & Adams.
“Overall, we always go to Gray & Adams for consultations. They understand our requirements and work with us to tailor their trailers accordingly.”
Gray & Adams Solution
Gray & Adams delivered customised 40ft trailers, incorporating;
• Latest Carrier multi-temp refrigeration unit
• Gray & Adams varistow bulkheads for chilled and frozen compartments.
• Dhollandia undermount tail lift for ease of operation, ensuring efficiency and operation at the dockside.
• Side access doors with a turntable sidestep and safety rails for improved access and operational safety.
The Gray & Adams team worked closely with Strachans throughout the process, ensuring every detail met the operational standards and logistical challenges faced in offshore and marine supply.
Gray & Adams Added Value
The working relationship between Strachans and Gray & Adams has been consistently strong. For over 50 years, the reliability, responsiveness, and flexibility shown by the Gray & Adams team has helped Strachans maintain high standards in their delivery operations.
“We've been a long-serving customer and have never had issues. That says a lot.”
Customer Impact
Looking ahead, Strachans remains committed to continuing its partnership with Gray & Adams.
“We won’t go past Gray & Adams — they’ll always be our first point of call.”
With Gray & Adams equipment forming a vital part of their fleet, Strachans is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of the offshore and marine sectors.
Our Customer Says
“We’ve always found G&A professional. There is nothing too difficult, hard, or impossible for them. They are very, very accommodating.”
— Peter Grant, Head of Operations, Strachans
Driven by Quality, United by Values
— Gray & Adams x Macs Trucks
At Gray & Adams, we’ve always believed that great business is about more than just the product—it’s about the people behind it. Our partnership with Mac’s Trucks is a perfect example of that belief in action: two family-run businesses, each built on generations of integrity, innovation, and a relentless commitment to quality, coming together to support each other’s growth.
For over 50 years, Mac’s Trucks has been a name synonymous with reliability and service in the commercial vehicle sector. Traditionally known for their work in plant equipment and crane truck builds, the West Yorkshire-based company has expanded its portfolio significantly in recent years. Mac’s Trucks now proudly serves a growing demand in the refrigerated transport market—a move that has brought our two businesses into close collaboration.
As Mac’s diversified to meet customer demand for refrigeration vehicles, Gray & Adams became their preferred partner in delivering bespoke, high-quality refrigerated rigid bodies.
Alex McDade, Sales Director at Mac’s Trucks comments,
“We’ve seen a huge amount of growth across all of our vehicle types over the last few years, both on our Rental Fleet and ready-to-go sales stock. Demand from our customers for high-quality Fridge bodies especially has been exceptional since the Pandemic, this has seen Gray & Adams become our partner to support that growth.”
Over the past six months, the partnership has accelerated with confidence. To date, we’ve delivered ten vehicles out of our Belfast facility, with a further seventeen recently commissioned from our Doncaster operation. Built on next-generation DAF and Volvo chassis across 18 and 26-tonne platforms, these vehicles are purpose-built.
What makes this collaboration particularly meaningful is the shared DNA between our companies. Mac’s Trucks is a proud, three-generation family business, and so are we. That mutual understanding of the value of long-term relationships, clear communication, and hands-on accountability means there’s a natural synergy in the way we operate together.
Alex notes.
“You can feel that family ethos throughout Gray & Adams,”
“It’s visible in the way Ryan [our account manager] works with us— always transparent, always looking to solve problems. It’s not transactional; it’s a relationship.”
As Mac’s continues to grow its footprint in the refrigerated market, Gray & Adams is proud to support their evolution. From technical excellence in our body builds to the flexibility of our production teams, we see our work as enabling more than transport—it’s enabling success.
Looking to the future, both companies are aligned in their ambition to provide customers with an end-to-end service that sets new standards in the industry. For Mac’s Trucks, that means being a one-stop shop for every commercial vehicle need. For Gray & Adams, it means continuing to be the trusted name in temperature-controlled solutions, built not just for the road ahead, but for partnerships that last.
Customer Case Study
— Staples x Sunswap
Gray & Adams Recognised by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service for Community Support
We are delighted to share that Gray & Adams has been honoured with the Chief Officer’s Recognition of Services to the Community certificate from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
This award celebrates more than 10 years of our ongoing commitment to supporting the Fraserburgh Community Fire Station by enabling trained colleagues to serve as on-call firefighters. By releasing staff to respond to emergency calls when needed, Gray & Adams has helped protect our local communities in moments of real urgency.
The certificate, presented by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, highlights the vital role our people play in safeguarding the community and acknowledges the company’s dedication to supporting them.
This recognition is a reflection of the values we hold as a business: teamwork, responsibility, and community spirit. It is also a testament to the incredible colleagues who balance their roles at Gray & Adams with the demanding duty of being oncall firefighters.
We are proud of this achievement and grateful to all those who make such a meaningful contribution to both our company and our wider community.
Long Service Awards
At Gray & Adams, we are proud of our people, and we work hard to attract and retain talented individuals. As a result, we have a number of valued team members who have worked for the business for many years.
Kenny McKenzie – 40 Years Service
In this edition, we speak to Kenny McKenzie, who has been with Gray & Adams for 40 years and works in the Paint Department as a Line Manager.
What is your role at Gray & Adams, and what are your day-to-day responsibilities?
I work in the Paint Department as a Line Manager – doing painting prep, mixing paints, working on chassis, setting out wheels and finishing jobs. I also do body-side work on panels and fittings.
What brought you to Gray & Adams, and what has kept you there for so long?
I started out working on cars in the car repair department as a painter apprentice. My father worked there for many years, and I even got involved in special projects. Later, I moved into the commercial trailer side of the business. Back then, everything was assembled first and painted afterwards –whereas now, everything is painted before assembly. The factory is only a ten-minute walk from my front door, and there’s not much other industry nearby. That convenience, along with the steady work, has kept me here.
What has been your biggest achievement while working for Gray & Adams?
Making sure everything I do is completed to a high standard. I take pride in my work – no complaints, just making sure the quality is something I’m happy with.
If you could do someone else’s job at Gray & Adams for a day, whose would it be and why?
Honestly, I’m happy where I am. I’m too long in the tooth to be chasing after a different role now.
What is the best thing about working for Gray & Adams?
The location – it’s close to home – and the people. Many of the lads I work with have been here for years, and we all understand each other and the job.
There’s also always a project on the go, which keeps things very interesting.
John Whyte, Line Manager in Panel Manufacture, has worked for Gray & Adams for 25 years. We would like to thank John for his many years of continued support and service to Gray & Adams
Retirement Spotlight — Colin Munro
Gray & Adams said goodbye to long-serving employee Colin Munro in June 2025. Colin was based at our Fraserburgh HQ and has worked for Gray & Adams for the last 30 years. We caught up with Colin just after his retirement to find out more about what he will miss about working for Gray & Adams and what he is looking forward to as he enters this new chapter.
What was your role at Gray & Adams, and what were your day-to-day responsibilities?
My role at Gray & Adams was a brush painter. I was responsible for checking and completing the paintwork on the twin deck vans.
What did you do before you came to Gray & Adams, and why did you want to work for the company?
I worked with Albert Innes (Bertie), a subcontractor to Gray & Adams, painting cappings and fitting graphics on the vans. I wanted to work for the company as it was local, steady work with a good pension.
What was your biggest achievement while working for Gray & Adams?
My biggest achievement was working with new customers and on special projects.
What did you enjoy most about working for Gray & Adams? I enjoyed working with a variety of people.
What are your plans for retirement?
My retirement plans are to travel around Scotland in my campervan, go hillwalking and cycling and learn to surf.
James and Peter Gray would like to thank Colin for his commitment to the company and wish him all the best in his retirement going forward.
Staff Spotlight — Jennifer Gilbert
At Gray & Adams, our greatest strength lies in our people. We’re committed to attracting, supporting, and retaining top talent, and we’re proud to have many dedicated team members who’ve built long and rewarding careers with us.
In this edition of our Staff Spotlight, we catch up with Jennifer Gilbert, who joined Gray & Adams in November 2023. Based at our Dunfermline depot, Jennifer plays a key role as an Aftersales Co-Ordinator, ensuring customer satisfaction and operational efficiency across the board.
Can you tell us about your role at Gray & Adams and what a typical day looks like for you?
I work in the Aftersales department as well as supporting Health & Safety and HR. No two days are the same; one day I might be helping customers with fuel tank orders, the next I could be delivering inductions or writing training policies. It’s a varied role that keeps me on my toes.
What inspired you to join the Gray & Adams team?
Before joining Gray & Adams, I worked in purchasing for a food distribution company, and before that, I was responsible for scheduling at a music school.
I was looking for a change in direction and an opportunity to develop my career. I already knew a few people who worked here, and they had nothing but positive things to say. Since starting at Gray & Adams, I’ve been given lots of opportunities for growth and development.
Since starting your journey here, what would you say has been your proudest achievement?
Definitely achieving my NEBOSH General Certificate in Health & Safety. It was a real challenge, I did a two-week crash course, followed by several weeks of study and then the final exam. It was tough, but I’m really proud of completing it.
If you had the opportunity to step into a different role at Gray & Adams for a day, whose job would you choose and why?
I’d love to try driving the forklift and be out in the yard for the day, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do!
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Gray & Adams family?
The people. Everyone works well together, and you can always rely on your team to get things done. There’s a great balance in that we can have a laugh, but also know we’ve got each other’s backs when it matters.
