Export & Freight Awards 2017

New Venue, New Categories, New Records Mark 16th Export & Freight Transport & Logistics Awards

The 16th annual Export & Freight Transport & Logistics Awards took over the biggest venue in Northern Ireland for yet another record breaking gala evening to recognise the very best in our industry.

Around 650 guests packed into the Waterfront Hall in Belfast, having outgrown our traditional venue; it was the best ever supported awards night since the event was first established back in 2001.

“This awards event is not just about brands, vehicle models and legislation; it is about personalities, skill, talent, co-operation, and above all people, who make up the heart of our industry,” commented Export & Freight publisher Helen Beggs.

“We should all be proud that the transport industry wants to join together on a
night like this illustrating our united front within today’s volatile marketplace.”

Apart from the new venue, there were also several new categories. The inaugural
‘Excellence in Maritime Logistics’ award went to Stena Line, while the ‘Excellence
in Compliance’ award was presented to RiverRidge. Another new category, the ‘Van of the Year’, was won by the Mercedes Benz Sprinter, while SDC Trailers has the’Top Team of the Year’.

It was also a special night for DFDS Managing Director Rodney Ferguson who was voted ‘Transport Personality of the Year’, having spent more than 40 years in the industry, and a surprise award was presented to the founder of Export & Freight magazine, Darryl Magee.

“It was 45 years ago that Darryl established the magazine to serve the transport and logistics industries. Today, the standing and respect in which the industry holds him is extensive,” commented Helen, who along with fellow publisher Garfield Harrison, invited Darryl to the stage amid loud applause from the gathered guests.

“Darryl announced his retirement earlier this year, and in recognition of his long service to the industry, we are delighted to present him with this small token of
our appreciation,” commented Helen.

On a more sober note, special tribute was paid to Peter Ray from BPW who passed away earlier in the year.

“He was a true gentleman and a great supporter of the Export & Freight Golf Masters. In his honour we are naming the Top Team Claret Jug, the Peter Ray Memorial Trophy, so he will always have a presence with us at Lough Erne,” said Helen.

“Another tragic loss this year was Pinot Harris, from the Harris Group. He was
a titan of innovation and an inspiration to all who knew him. His contribution
to our industry was immeasurable.”

The generosity of all those attending the event was also underlined by a charity collection totalling £7,399.27 for the little known Action Not Words, a remarkable charity that focuses on providing under privileged children with quality education from one of Kenya’s most poverty stricken slums in Nakuru. So, many thanks to one and all!

Over the following pages, you can read all about who won what and why…