How we got to where we are today
Our journey started in 1960 as an agricultural subcontractor in the small Cumbrian Village of Hesket Newmarket and then really took off in 1970 with advent of Eddie Stobart
The Stobart Journey
Initially formed in 1970 by our eponymous founder Edward Stobart, we have come a long way to become one of the UK’s most well-known companies in the supply chain sector.
Now operating the UKs largest shared-user pay as you go transport network, Stobart delivers exceptional levels of service using both road and rail for the UK’s largest brands.
The business operates over 2,700 vehicles, c3,500 trailers, 43 operating centres throughout the UK, and employs c5,000 people.
Our company history
2005
IT infrastructure investment
Significant investment is made in IT infrastructure in conjunction with the development of a key management team and the introduction of a striking new livery for the fleet.
2001
William Stobart leaves Stobart
William leaves Stobart to become a shareholding director in Andrew Tinkler’s rail-based infrastructure engineering business, WA Developments (WAD).
1996
Stobart shop is opened
The summer of 1996 saw the opening of the Stobart Shop in Carlisle city centre, the launch of the official members’ club and the start of the franchise with Corgi Toys.
1980/90
Stobart expands significantly
The business expands significantly, opening depots across the UK and Europe. This consistent, rapid growth helped make Stobart one of the UK’s best-known brands.
1977
Eddie’s youngest son, joins the business.
Eddie’s youngest son, William, joins the business. Working in the garage and office and then driving from the age of 21 (pictured here with the 12th vehicle in the fleet) for 3 years.
1970
Stobart becomes a limited company
Stobart became a limited company on 23rd November 1970 led by Edward Stobart, Eddie’s second son, and started doing general haulage still based in Hesket Newmarket.
1970
Stobart moves into first depot
Edward drives the company’s transition from an agricultural contracting business into road transport and warehousing and moves into the first depot at Greystone Road in Carlisle.
1960
Stobart is founded
Founder, Stobart, goes into business as an agricultural contractor in the isolated Lake District village of Hesket Newmarket.
Learn more about the services we offer today
Retail
We’re involved in every aspect of the supply chain and have a logo history of providing comprehensive and versatile multimodal logistics to the retail sector.
Consumer
Flexible and agile road and rail transport and warehousing to short lead times under stringent handling practices for some of the UK’s best-now brands.
Ports
We understand Port Operations and we specialise in providing road and rail-based container transport services.
Eventor
We service our pan-European customers with full end-to-end logistics, comprising automotive, general haulage and warehousing, across all of our sectors.
Rail
Rail reduces carbon compared to road by up to 76% which is why we are continuing to invest to maintain our position as the leader in UK Rail logistics.
Get in touch
Interested in one of our services? Contact the team today to discuss your logistic needs. A relevant person from the Stobart team will respond to you as soon as possible.