John Jempson and Son Ltd, a historic haulier, is closing after 158 years, transferring staff to XPO Logistics.
- The family-run business was founded in 1866 as a horse-drawn timber operation by Joshua Jempson.
- Closure is largely due to Managing Director Mark Chamberlain’s retirement and contract expiration with XPO.
- Most of the staff will transfer under TUPE regulations to XPO Logistics beginning 1 July 2024.
- Jempsons’ liquidation includes full payment to creditors, marking the end of a significant era in transport.
John Jempson and Son Ltd, an esteemed name in the haulage industry for over a century and a half, is set to close its doors at the end of June. Founded in 1866 as a horse-drawn timber business by Joshua Jempson, the company evolved into a key player in the transport sector. However, looming changes have necessitated a difficult decision: to cease trading operations.
The primary catalyst behind this significant move is the retirement of current Managing Director Mark Chamberlain. His departure signals a shift in the company’s leadership and operational dynamics. Furthermore, the existing contract with XPO Logistics, under which Jempsons has operated as a subcontractor since 2019, is set to expire by the end of June. This contract was particularly crucial as Jempsons handled the distribution of building materials for British Gypsum, a longstanding principal client.
In preparation for this closure, most of Jempsons’ workforce, comprising over 80 staff members, will transition to XPO Logistics under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) regulations. This measure ensures that the majority of their skilled workforce remains employed, albeit under new management by the start of July 2024.
Despite the forthcoming liquidation, Jempsons remains committed to meeting all its financial obligations. The company has promised that all creditors and suppliers will receive full payment, highlighting an orderly wind-up of its longstanding operations. Jempsons had already ceased its membership with the Pall-Ex and Fortec networks earlier this year, reflecting its strategic shift towards contract hire and related operational changes.
A report from the company noted that turnover remained steady at £14 million, but pre-tax profits took a substantial hit due to unexpected losses in a novel business element which was not continued. This downturn echoes the broader challenges and uncertainties faced by Jempsons, ultimately leading to the voluntary liquidation decision. The company’s chairman, Jon Jempson, provides a solemn testament to the business’s longstanding history and the poignant closure of this chapter.
Jempsons’ closure marks the end of a historic chapter in the haulage industry, transitioning its legacy to XPO Logistics.
