Spring 2025 ISSUE 26 | SPRING 2025 In this issue > Customer Case Study – Johnston International > Gray & Adams Named Among Financial Times UK's Best Employers 2025 > Gray & Adams Doncaster Annual Christmas Outreach Initiative
> Celebrating a Remarkable Career with Clive Horn: 19 Years of Dedication at Gray & Adams And so much more
As we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome the longer days and sunshine of spring, we’re excited for all that the new year has in store.
Our people have contributed to the success of Gray & Adams over the years. Our team are highly skilled, and professional and care not only about our customers but also their communities as evidenced in Doncaster’s annual Christmas outreach initiative on pages 6 and 7. Gray & Adams are proud to support the communities in which we live and work, showcased by our proud sponsorship of Dunfermline Rugby Club (pages 8 and 9).
In this edition, we have several articles and case studies from our valued customers where they discuss the relationship with Gray & Adams and the benefits our solutions have brought to their operations. Read more from Mauds Ice Cream on pages 18 and 19 and Johnston International on pages 12 and 13. On pages 14 and 15, we spoke to Liam Dickinson, Head of Fleet at Gregory Group, to curate a case study on the long-standing relationship between Gregory Group and Gray & Adams.
Pages 4 and 5 showcase the fantastic partnership story with Marks & Spencer, who took delivery of its first refrigerated electric wagon and drag vehicles. These vehicles, developed in collaboration with Gray & Adams, represent a leap forward in sustainability and efficiency for food retail transportation. Together, we are delighted to be setting new benchmarks in food retail logistics while paving the way for a greener future. We also bring the focus back to our people, who are integral to the operations of our company. Enjoy a staff spotlight on Matthew Bingham who works as Production Manager in our Northern Ireland depot (page 24). Pages 21 to 23 showcase our long-serving employees; Derek Reid and Emma Jane Pirie who celebrate 25 years with the company and Michael Milne, who this year celebrated his 42nd year with Gray & Adams.
In this edition, we also feature a retirement spotlight, celebrating James Birnie who worked for Gray & Adams for 17 years (page 20). Sales Manager, Clive Horn, also retired this year after 19 years with the company. Page 10 celebrates Clive’s career with Gray & Adams and the values he represents – dedication, integrity and a genuine passion for the work.
Gray & Adams builds a lifetime of value through a focus on Quality, Health, Safety and the Environment (QHSE). On page 17, Group Quality Manager, David Smith delves into why QHSE matters to the Gray & Adams Group.
In 2025, Gray & Adams has already distinguished itself with two prestigious accolades that underscore its industry leadership and commitment to excellence. On page 16 we discuss the company being proudly named among the Financial Times UK’s Best Employers, a testament to our exceptional workplace culture, employee satisfaction, and forward-thinking leadership. Further cementing Gray & Adams reputation for innovation, we were honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation 2025 (page 11). This royal recognition celebrates the company's groundbreaking advancements in temperaturecontrolled vehicle technology and its ongoing contribution to sustainable, cutting-edge solutions in the transport industry.
As we start 2025, we would like to extend our gratitude to our staff, customers and suppliers for their unwavering commitment to Gray & Adams and would like to wish you all the best for the coming year.
James Gray OBE and Peter Gray OBE Joint Managing Directors
Marks & Spencer has taken delivery of its first refrigerated electric wagon and drag vehicles, marking a significant milestone for the company and the UK logistics industry. These vehicles, developed in collaboration with long-term partner Gray & Adams, represent a leap forward in sustainability and efficiency for food retail transportation.
The electric wagon and drag setup, the first of its kind in the country, is equipped with advanced technology, including a fully electric Carrier fridge on the prime mover unit. This innovative system operates on electric power generated by the vehicle's main engine. The drag trailer can seamlessly switch to a small diesel backup tank in case of power failure, ensuring uninterrupted temperature control for sensitive food items.
The vehicles offer a hybrid approach to food delivery, combining the flexibility of traditional rigid vehicles with the environmental benefits of electric technology. By using a wagon and drag system, Marks & Spencer can reduce its fleet's carbon footprint and improve efficiency. For example, a single wagon and drag can replace the need for two separate rigid vehicles, delivering to two different locations – a Simply Food store linked to a BP petrol station and a larger airport-based store – in one trip.
Once unloaded, the trailer can be detached and powered by an electric connection at the depot, allowing the prime mover vehicle to be repurposed for other deliveries, maximizing productivity throughout the day.
Marks & Spencer plans to integrate 50% of its fleet with the innovative wagon and drag vehicles over the next three months, with two already in operation and another 13 expected soon. These vehicles boast a lifespan of up to seven years, underscoring their durability and long-term value.
The vehicles will operate from key Marks & Spencer locations and will soon become a familiar sight on roads nationwide.
Gray & Adams Doncaster Sales Director, Andrew Brown comments on the partnership,
“These very latest wagon and drag combinations continue the partnership journey with Marks & Spencer towards its ultimate target of zero emissions. We continue to work closely with our partner to provide them with one of the most flexible, efficient and carbon-busting fleets in the UK.”
This latest move is part of Gray & Adams’ ongoing partnership with Marks & Spencer, who have been a trusted supplier of our refrigerated vehicles for years. Together, we are delighted to be setting new benchmarks in food retail logistics while paving the way for a greener future.
Gray & Adams Doncaster is proud of the success of the annual Christmas outreach initiative, where in December 2024 an incredible £5,500 was raised for two outstanding local charities. This achievement marks yet another milestone in a five-year tradition of generosity, community spirit, and a commitment to giving back to those in need.
Each year the funds are split between two meaningful causes: the Hits Radio South Yorkshire Mission Christmas Cash for Kids appeal and the Sheffield Children's Hospital. With this contribution, the Mission Christmas appeal was able to provide toys and gifts to children across South Yorkshire who might otherwise have gone without during the festive season. Meanwhile, the donation to Sheffield Children’s Hospital supported the hospital’s efforts to provide care and comfort to young patients and their families, ensuring that children facing challenging times felt a sense of hope and joy over Christmas.
A particularly heartwarming moment this year was the delivery of the donated toys to the charities by Scott Sherwin and Kim Bell, representing the Gray & Adams Doncaster team. Reflecting on the experience, Kim said:
“It was an absolute privilege to deliver the toys to such wonderful causes on behalf of everyone at Gray & Adams Doncaster, our customers and suppliers. The fact that the generosity has increased every year, despite the cost of living going up just shows the kind of people we have around us. We’re incredibly proud to support these charities and help make Christmas a little brighter for those in need."
The success of this initiative over the last five years would not be possible without the unwavering support of our incredible network of customers, suppliers, and employees. Their generosity and enthusiasm for helping others truly embody the spirit of the season. From contributions to fundraising efforts, everyone involved has gone above and beyond to support these two amazing causes.
The Christmas outreach initiative has become a cornerstone of Gray & Adams Doncaster’s community efforts, and it’s inspiring to see the difference we can make together year after year. As we reflect on this year’s success, we’re reminded of the power of coming together as a team and a community to bring joy to others during a season that should be filled with hope, happiness, and giving.
At Gray & Adams, we believe in the importance of giving back, and initiatives like this reinforce our values and commitment to supporting local charities that make a real difference.
To everyone who has contributed over the last five years, we thank you for your kindness, compassion, and generosity. Together, we’ve made a significant impact, raising over £13.5k since 2020, and we couldn’t have done it without you. We look forward to continuing this wonderful tradition in 2025 and beyond!
Gray & Adams Dunfermline is thrilled to announce our continued sponsorship of Dunfermline Rugby Club, a thriving local sports club at the heart of the community. This partnership supports the Men’s 1st and 2nd XV teams as well as the Ladies’ 1st XV team, who proudly unveiled their brand-new playing strips featuring the Gray & Adams logo.
To mark the occasion, Kevin Ireland, Purchasing Manager, and Colin Stewart, Buyer, visited the club to officially present the new kits to the players and staff.
Dunfermline Rugby Club President Greg Robertson expressed the club’s heartfelt appreciation,
“Thank You to Gray & Adams for Their Ongoing Support. On behalf of everyone at Dunfermline Rugby Club, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Gray & Adams for their generous sponsorship covering our Men’s 1st and 2nd XV teams, as well as our Ladies’ 1st XV teams’ new strips. Their continued support has been invaluable, helping us provide opportunities for players at all levels.
Greg continues,
As a club run entirely by volunteers and home to fifteen teams ranging from Primary ones to seniors, it is the generosity of companies like Gray & Adams that allows us to thrive. Their commitment to grassroots rugby has made a real difference, and we are incredibly grateful for their ongoing partnership. Thank you for being a vital part of our rugby family!”
Dunfermline Rugby Club has been a cornerstone of the local community for many years, providing opportunities for players of all ages and abilities, from Primary One through to senior levels. With fifteen teams in total, the club’s tireless efforts to foster growth, inclusivity, and a love of the game align perfectly with Gray & Adams’ values of community support and innovation.
Kevin Ireland, Purchasing Manager at Gray & Adams Dunfermline, shared his thoughts on the sponsorship,
"We’re proud to sponsor Dunfermline Rugby Club and play a role in supporting their incredible work in the community. Watching the passion, dedication, and teamwork displayed by players and volunteers alike is truly inspiring. We’re excited to see the teams represent the club—and Gray & Adams—both on and off the field."
This partnership represents more than just new kits; it underscores our commitment to the local community and grassroots sports. We look forward to cheering on all the teams this season and wish Dunfermline Rugby Club continued success throughout 2025 and beyond.
Gray & Adams is proud to announce it has been awarded The King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation in 2025 – one of the most prestigious accolades a UK business can receive. This year’s recognition is for 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.
This marks the second time Gray & Adams has received a royal award for innovation. In 2020, the business was honoured with The Queen’s Award for Enterprise for its pioneering double-deck trailer design, which included a full-length moving upper deck and delivered major advances in transport capacity and sustainability.
“We are delighted and deeply honoured to receive The King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation."
said James and Peter Gray, Joint Managing Directors, Gray & Adams.
“This award reflects the commitment, creativity, and hard work of our entire team in pushing the boundaries of trailer design. It’s a proud moment for our business and underlines our continued focus on delivering excellence and innovation to our customers.”
The King’s Awards for Enterprise, first established in 1965 and now continuing under the reign of His Majesty King Charles III, recognise outstanding achievements by UK businesses in the fields of Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development, and Promoting Opportunity. 2025 marks the third year of these awards under The King’s name, reinforcing the commitment to celebrating visionary and impactful British enterprises.
James and Peter Gray would like to extend a personal thank you to John MacKinnon, Senior Engineer at Gray & Adams for his dedication, time and success in the award submission process.
As a family-run business, Gray & Adams understands the values of our customers whose successful operations have been handed down through generations. Johnston International Transport Ltd is one such customer, with a long and proud history, and stellar reputation, Gray & Adams are keen to deliver excellent service as well as quality trailers to allow Johnston International Limited to continue the daily service they deliver for many years to come.
Johnston International Transport set its standards high, and for more than 40 years they have been delivering road haulage and providing warehouse facilities from its modern facility outside Armagh City, Northern Ireland. Their modern fleet covers Ireland, the U.K. and across Europe and they have been a customer of Gray & Adams for more than 35 years.
Most recently, one of their 2017 Gray & Adams refrigerated trailers suffered some sidewall damage, a repair was quickly carried out and due to the outstanding condition of the trailer, which had already been in service for 7 years, the decision was made to repaint it completely. The results speak for themselves and are a testament to the strength, durability and high quality of the Gray & Adams product.
With a focus on long-term value, the service provided by Gray & Adams has been a real marker of pride in aftersales care, repairs and refurbishment, as well as in the bespoke builds themselves for Johnston International Transport Director, Mark Johnston.
Mark commented that the trailer is and reflects their ethos of operating the best equipment in a demanding environment.
“My father bought from Gray & Adams when he had a single truck & trailer and as we continued to grow, we always invested in Gray & Adams products that were built to our specific requirements. The after-sales and parts support we get from the team in Newtownabbey gives us confidence and a reliable business supplier.”
– Mark Johnston, Director, Johnston International Transport
Gray & Adams will continue to be a key supplier for Gregory Group due to the bespoke nature of their trailers, with future orders already planned.
Gregory currently operates on a fleet of c.250 temperaturecontrol trailers, with the current replacement policy dictating around 20 temperature-controlled trailers annually, ensuring they stay ahead in efficiency and sustainability. The company has ambitious net-zero targets, aiming for a 40% carbon reduction by 2030 and complete net-zero operations by 2038.
While this replacement cycle does not yet include major sustainability upgrades, Gregory Group expects future orders to incorporate innovative features such as axle regeneration and solar-powered refrigeration units which are already scheduled for trial in 2025.
Our customer says,
"Gray & Adams is a trusted partner for Gregory Group, consistently delivering high-quality, durable trailers that meet our bespoke specifications. Their attention to detail, communication, and willingness to adapt to our evolving needs make them an invaluable supplier. As we work towards our ambitious sustainability goals, we look forward to continuing our partnership and exploring innovative solutions together."
– Liam Dickinson, Head of Fleet, Gregory Distribution
Gray & Adams, a UK leader in manufacturing temperature-controlled and specialist vehicles, is proud to announce its recognition as one of the Financial Times UK's Best Employers 2025. This prestigious accolade underscores the company's unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive and growth-oriented workplace culture.
The Financial Times, in collaboration with data provider Statista, conducted an extensive survey involving approximately 20,000 employees across various industries. The inaugural ranking evaluates companies on criteria such as employee satisfaction, workplace environment, and opportunities for professional development.
James J Gray OBE and Peter Gray OBE, Joint Group Managing Directors of Gray & Adams, commented:
"We are honoured to be recognised among the UK's Best Employers by the Financial Times. This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our team members, who contribute daily to our success. We remain committed to valuing our people, supporting their growth, and striving for continuous improvement."
The official list of the UK's Best Employers 2025 was published by the Financial Times on March 10, 2025.
Gray & Adams' inclusion in this prestigious list highlights its commitment to creating an environment where employees thrive, reinforcing its position as a leading employer in the industry.
For more information about Gray & Adams and career opportunities, please visit: https://www.gray-adams.com/about-us/careers/
At Gray and Adams, the products we manufacture are vital to modern life. From food and pharmaceuticals to chemicals, our vehicles ensure the safe transportation of temperature-sensitive goods. The quality, reliability, and safety built into every vehicle are not only critical to our success but essential to the trust and well-being of our customers.
Quality, Health, Safety, and Environmental (QHSE) principles are not separate from our manufacturing process, they are embedded in every stage of production for both refrigerated and dry freight products.
Personal safety is non-negotiable. By adhering to established procedures and wearing appropriate protective equipment, we safeguard not only ourselves but also our colleagues. Manufacturing comes with inherent risks, which is why we continuously invest in training and tools that empower our people to manage and mitigate those risks effectively. Health and Safety training is ongoing across the group. As part of this commitment, I have recently completed a Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Health and Safety Leadership and Management, further strengthening our leadership in QHSE and supporting continued growth in these areas.
Our goal is clear: to ensure that every employee is healthy, safe, and equipped to perform their duties. This means providing not just training, but also a working environment where QHSE practices are second nature. Educating our staff ensures that policies and procedures are not only known but consistently followed.
Personal responsibility is the cornerstone of our approach. This includes:
• Adhering to safe working procedures
• Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Maintaining clean and organized workspaces
• Looking out for one another to keep everyone safe
A robust QHSE culture is driven by leadership but thrives through the engagement and communication of every team member. By working collaboratively, sharing best practices, and staying focused on continuous improvement, we can maintain our reputation for building the best, safest, and most reliable vehicles in the industry.
While compliance with legislation and regulatory standards is essential, we aim higher, toward best practices that lead to real results. Proactive initiatives, such as near-miss reporting and ongoing improvement suggestions, reduce incidents, enhance product reliability, improve energy efficiency, and reinforce our safety culture.
Every employee plays a part in this journey. By committing to procedures, identifying potential risks, and actively contributing to a safer, more sustainable work environment, we can ensure that quality, safety, and environmental care go hand in hand.
David Smith Group Quality Manager
David Wilson, Director at Mauds Ice Cream, expressed his satisfaction with the latest bespoke vehicle from Gray & Adams, stating,
“Great build quality yet again."
This endorsement highlights the trust and confidence Mauds Ice Creams places in Gray & Adams to deliver durable and reliable transport solutions that support their business growth.
The successful partnership between Mauds Ice Creams and Gray & Adams exemplifies how two businesses committed to excellence can collaborate to achieve outstanding results. With over 35 years of working together, Gray & Adams remains dedicated to providing Mauds Ice Cream with top-tier transport solutions, ensuring their products reach customers in perfect condition.
Gray & Adams said goodbye to long-serving employee James Birnie this year. James, who was based at Fraserburgh worked for Gray & Adams for 17 years. We caught up with James just after his retirement to find out more about what he will miss about working for the company 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?
"I was the Manager of the Repair Department My day-to-day responsibilities were to manage the repairs and to ensure they were completed to Gray & Adams standards and on time."
What did you do before you came to Gray & Adams and why did you want to work for the company?
"I came from a kitchen and bedroom fitter background, working with the same firm for 25 years, until the owner of the business retired. I had been working for a few of the Gray & Adams Directors at the time and they offered me, and I accepted as I thought the change would be a challenge."
What was your biggest achievement working for Gray & Adams?
"My biggest achievement was being involved in research and development projects because it was always something different."
If you could do someone else’s job at Gray & Adams what would it be and why?
"If I had to do any other job in Gray & Adams it would be any job in the Repair Department because no two days are the same and every day is a challenge."
What was the best thing about working for Gray & Adams?
"The best thing was working as a team with a great bunch of guys, past and present, who all had their own special expertise. Also, Gray & Adams as a company were very good and supported me during periods off work due to ill health."
James and Peter Gray would like to thank James for his commitment to the company and wish him all the best in his retirement going forward.
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.
In this edition, we speak to Derek Reid who works at our Dunfermline depot and celebrated his 25th anniversary with Gray & Adams this year.
What is your role at Gray & Adam’s and what are your day-to-day responsibilities?
My job is to complete all of the electrical requirements on the trucks and trailers.
What brought you to Gray & Adams, and what has kept you there for so long?
The employment opportunity of a good company and being based in Dunfermline is what was and continues to be the reason I am still here.
What has been your biggest achievement while working for Gray & Adams?
Being here 25 years is my biggest achievement.
If you could do someone else’s job (at Gray & Adams) for the day, whose would it be and why?
I’m very happy with the job I’ve got!
What is the best thing about working for Gray & Adams?
The best thing is we are the best in the business and being busy.
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.
In this edition, we speak to Emma Jane Pirie who works in the Buyers Department and has celebrated her 25th anniversary with Gray & Adams this year.
What is your role at Gray & Adam’s and what are your day-to-day responsibilities?
My role is Office Administrator in the Buyers Department. My day-to-day responsibilities include creating purchase orders and invoices, querying invoices, buying items and booking in and out materials.
What brought you to Gray & Adams, and what has kept you there for so long?
When I left school, I did an HND office course at Fraserburgh College, I was then applying for jobs and ended up getting the role of Office Administrator in the Gray & Adams Stores Department. I have stayed at Gray & Adams because it’s right on my doorstep and everyone is nice to work with.
What has been your biggest achievement while working for Gray & Adams?
I think being part of the company since 2000 is an achievement and seeing how much Gray & Adams is growing and progressing.
If you could do someone else’s job (at Gray & Adams) for the day, whose would it be and why?
I enjoy coming to work every day and doing my own job! but if I had to do someone else's job for the day, I like to be the General Manager.
What is the best thing about working for Gray & Adams?
Working at Gray & Adams for so many years has allowed me to work with so many nice people – that’s the best bit!
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.
In this edition, we speak to Matthew Bingham who has been with Gray & Adams for 15 years and works as Production Manager in our Northern Ireland depot.
What is your role at Gray & Adams and tell me about your day-to-day responsibilities
For the last four years, I worked as the Completion Supervisor, overseeing the completion of different types of products that we provide. Most recently, I got the job of Production Manager where I oversee the daily running of the factory.
What brought you to Gray & Adams?
One of my friends worked here and recommended it and the job also benefited me working towards gaining my apprenticeship.
What has been your biggest achievement while working for Gray & Adams?
I won the Employee of the Year award about six or seven years ago which was a big achievement for me and a recent achievement would be getting my promotion to Production Manager.
If you could do someone else’s job (at Gray & Adams) for the day, whose would it be and why?
I was very happy to be working in the completion department and couldn’t see myself working anywhere else. But now I look forward to learning the role of Production Manager.
What is the best thing about working for Gray & Adams?
The best thing about working for Gray & Adams would be the people I have met over the years with the company. I’ve met quite a few good people who have taught me a lot throughout my career and helped me get to where I am today.
