GIF Transport and Logistics acquired by Williams Shipping

GIF Transport & Logistics, a supply chain services provider based in Scotland, has been sold to Williams Shipping in a deal that creates a “stronger foundation for future growth”.

Founded in 2015 by Brian Pirie and Kevin Lawrie, GIF stores and transports goods via its large fleet of modern vehicles across the UK and Europe.

As well as the company, Williams Shipping has also acquired a parcel of land in Dyce on the northern side of Aberdeen, near GIF’s current headquarters, which will be developed to support further growth and is expected to become operational later in 2025.

Williams, founded in 1894, is among the UK’s leading marine and logistics services providers. Although based in Southampton, the company already has a location in Aberdeen as well as Milford Haven in Wales.

Day-to-day operations at GIF will remain unchanged, continuing to trade under its current name as a subsidiary of Williams, with existing teams and management staying in place to ensure continuity and reliability for all customers.

The sale was advised on by Atif Iqbal, KBS Corporate Deal Executive.

“We’re excited to join forces with Williams Shipping,” said Brian Pirie, Director of GIF Transport & Logistics. “This allows us to maintain the exceptional service our customers rely on, while also securing the long-term growth and sustainability of the company.

“Together, Williams Shipping and GIF will collaborate closely to build on their strong reputations and deliver enhanced value to customers across the UK logistics sector.”

The acquisition, which builds on an existing partnership between GIF and Williams, is viewed as a significant opportunity to mark a major step forward in the company’s growth strategy.

“Our transport team have already built up a solid working relationship with GIF as a supplier and a customer,” said Jonathan Williams, Managing Director of Williams Shipping.

“This new partnership is built on shared values and a joint commitment to delivering first-class service. By combining the strengths of both companies, we are creating a stronger foundation for future growth while ensuring customers continue to receive the high standards they expect.”

The new site in Dyce will become a critical operations hub not only for GIF, offering valuable operational and warehousing space in a high-demand industrial area, but also for the Williams Marine Lubricants division and Willbox, its specialist container business.

“This land acquisition aligns perfectly with our strategic vision to grow sustainably while supporting the industries we serve,” added Jonathan Williams.

“Aberdeen remains a vibrant marine and logistics hub with a wealth of skills and knowledge across many key sectors. The region is at the forefront of the energy transition and home to Europe’s leading marine support centres for the offshore energy industry.

“This investment will help us better serve Williams Shipping and GIF customers and provide space and services that support the wider logistics community.”

Atif Iqbal expressed thanks to his KBS Corporate colleagues Jasmine Almora (Research Analyst) and Daniel Calderbank (Document Writer), for their support with sourcing acquirers and preparing GIF’s marketing materials respectively, and appreciation for the dedication shown by Adam Gilbert and the team at AG Corporate Law.