Our History
For nearly five decades, Charles M. Willie & Co. has been a trusted name in maritime shipping. Our journey from a small family business to a leading shipping company is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation.
Our Journey Through Time
Going into Business
Mr Charles M Willie entered into business as a Domestic Coal Merchant, Coal Exporter and Collery Agent under the title of Charles M Willie and Company
Tragedy Strikes
Sadly Charles dies age 21 years after a shooting accident. His Brother-in-law took over the firm.
Office Move
Head office moved from 104 Bute Street, Cardiff to the Merchants' Exchange, Bute Street, Cardiff
First go at shipping
The Company first entered into the world of shipping by becoming the managers of the s.s.'Willowdale', built 1909
Office Move
Head Office moved from Merchants' Exchange to the Exchange Buildings, Mount Stuart Square, Cardiff
Incorporated
Charles M. Willie & Co (Shipping) Ltd was Incorporated
The Office Boy
Douglas Reid was employed at the age of 14 years as the office boy
Achieving
Douglas became a Shareholder and Director of the company
From Office Boy to Boss
Douglas became Majority Shareholder and Managing Director
Family Addition
Andrew Reid, Douglas' eldest son joins the company
Family Addition
Stuart Reid, Douglas' youngest son joins the company
The First ‘Celtic’
m.v 'Waynegate' was bought and renamed 'Celtic Venture'. This was the first vessel to have 'Celtic' within its name which has continued till present day
A Family Firm
The 'Reid' Family now own 100% of the company after a number of changes in ownership throughout previous years
Office Move
Head Office moved from the Exchange Buildings to Britannia Road on the quay side of Cardiff Docks
Office Move
Head Office moved from Britannia Road to Ocean Way, Cardiff
Family Addition
Richard Reid, Andrew's eldest son, started working for the company in the Technical Department
Family Additions
Matthew and Adam Reid, Stuarts sons joined the company initially working with one of our partners and then shortly after moved into the Chartering Department
Family Addition
Nicholas Reid, Andrew's youngest son joins the company working in the Chartering Department
Family Addition
Daniel Reid, Stuart's youngest son joined the company initially working with one of our partners and then later moved to the Chartering Department
Office Move
Head office moved from Ocean Way to Neptune Court, Cardiff
3rd Generation Shipowners
Richard, Nicholas, Matthew, Adam & Daniel took over the Shareholding and became Directors
Present Day
After numerous fleet revisions over the years the companies fleet is sitting at 15 vessels
Our Core Values
Reliability
Consistent, dependable service that our clients can count on
Safety First
Uncompromising commitment to the safety of crew, cargo, and environment
Innovation
Embracing new technologies and methods to improve efficiency
Integrity
Honest, transparent business practices in all our dealings
Building on Tradition
Charles M. Willie & Co. was founded on the principles of hard work, integrity, and a deep respect for the sea. These values, instilled by our founder Charles M. Willie, continue to guide us today.
As a family-owned business, we combine the personal touch and flexibility of a small company with the capabilities and professionalism of a major shipping line. This unique position allows us to provide exceptional service to our clients while maintaining the relationships that have sustained us for generations.
Looking forward, we remain committed to innovation and sustainability, ensuring that Charles M. Willie & Co. continues to lead the way in maritime shipping for generations to come.
