James Irlam, the Grandfather of David, Michael and Stewart started his one man business back in the 1940’s when he was a market gardener based in Ringway.  But when the building of Manchester Airport began, his land stood in the way of runway development and he was forced to relocate to the Chelford area.  From here, James transported milk churns to the Manchester dairies and returned with corn supplies for local farms – so no empty running even then!

Picture:  The very first ‘truck & trailer’  

The business developed into James Irlam & Sons by James Kenneth Irlam and his three brothers with one truck in 1964, with David Irlam joining as a driver in the late 70’s.

Picture:  David with ‘new’ Irlam truck!

The next generation expanded the business in 1980 starting with 5 new trucks and have grown it into what it is today.

Now, it is one of the largest independently owned logistics companies in the UK.

• 350 trucks
• 700 trailers
• 700 employees

Our key customers include some of the worlds leading brands