Keeping the Wheels Turning: A Legacy of Mutual Value

Heritage, Pride, and People: We officially opened the Howard Tenens Heritage Centre

Taking place at our Swindon site, the day kicked off with coffee, cakes, and networking as guests explored the new space and got up close to our most iconic vehicles. From the original Morris to the T5 NEN and the Multi-Car, every vehicle had a story, not just of engineering, but of the people who’ve cared for them over the decades.

The opening was hosted by Peter, Ben, and Dan Morris, who each shared reflections on how Howard Tenens began back in 1953, a family business that started with a vision to build car crates for export and has grown into one of the UK’s leading privately owned logistics operations.

Speaking to the group, Dan and Ben brought to life their personal journeys within the business, paying tribute to the teams that have shaped Tenens into what it is today. Their message was clear: this company was built by people who care, and that ethos is still the heartbeat of the business.

“I was especially proud to see Dad’s dream of a space to promote our vintage fleet and memorabilia become a reality,” said Dan Morris, Deputy Chairman. “However, the highlight for me was seeing the pride of our lorry drivers who have been responsible for these vehicles. They got up seven hours before the opening to make sure the vehicles were in their best order. Having so many people in the business who cared that this was a success, that was the standout highlight of the day.”

It was also great to see the next generation of the Morris family showing keen interest and getting involved, with Dan’s children Bertie and Molly taking part in the official ribbon cutting and joining in the celebrations. A powerful reminder that while we’re proud of our past, our future is just as exciting.

As the morning progressed, our CEO Jamie Hartles spoke about how Howard Tenens continues to grow with purpose, expanding our asset base, investing in our people, and pushing forward through innovation. Jamie also reflected on the evolution of our company values: connected, supportive, progressive, and resilient. Principles that have always been part of our DNA, now more visible than ever.

The event also held a particularly special moment. Welcoming Mason Wyatt, a 13-year-old boy with a dream of one day becoming a Howard Tenens driver. Mason lives just a street away from our Swindon site and regularly watches our lorries from his home. Thanks to the coordination of Andy Drury, Site Manager, Sophie Mitchell, Contract Executive and Jenna Hawkins, National Planner and Mason’s family, we were able to make that dream a little more real. Mason joined us on-site, met members of the team, and toured the vehicles.

After lunch, guests were taken on behind-the-scenes tours of the Swindon site, hosted by Lee Strange, Operations Manager and Dave Johnson, Operations Manager, offering visitors a look into the inner workings of our operation.

It was a proud moment for everyone involved, and a fitting tribute to the history and values of Howard Tenens. We were joined by colleagues past and present, customers, friends, and family members who have all played a part in our journey so far.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who helped bring the event together, those who planned, constructed, polished, hosted, and supported the launch in countless ways.

Want to hear more from the family and our CEOs about the roots of Howard Tenens?
Watch our new history video.