Heritage
Heritage
Our past guides us. Our future drives us.
Our past guides us. Our future drives us.
Heritage
Our past guides us. Our future drives us.
scroll
Where it
all began
MANFREIGHT BEGINS
A single truck
& a big dream
Chris Slowey Senior starts Manfreight with a single truck and a big dream.
1973
THE NAME IS BORN
It's all in the name
The first MAN diesel is purchased and the Manfreight name is born.
1976
FROM SWEDEN WITH LOVE
A Partnership
with Volvo
Volvo's become the vehicle of choice for the Manfreight fleet. A partnership that will last for years to come.
Volvo becomes the vehicle of choice for the Manfreight fleet. A partnership that will last for years to come.
1977
EN ROUTE TO GREECE
Pioneering since
the beginning
En route to Greece with pioneering loads of chilled beef. Chris meticulously planned the journey to navigate the constraints of sailing times while allowing the beef to complete the last part of its 28 day hanging process.
1979
HARD TIMES & INTERLAND
Hard times for the business
Hard times in the business led to a chance partnership with Interland - a key piece in the story of Manfreight.
1985
REBUILDING
Hard times come again no more
Chris Slowey Senior began rebuilding the business.
1994
INTERLAND EVOLVES
Manfreight & Norfolkline
Interland becomes Norfolkline., moving
to Belfast with new contracts and a shared partnership for Chris and Manfreight.
Interland becomes Norfolkline, moving
to Belfast with new contracts and a shared partnership for Chris and Manfreight.
1998
MOVE TO PORTADOWN
The food heartland of Northern Ireland
The Food Heartland of Northern Ireland
The business moves to Portadown, Co. Armagh; the food heartland of Northern Ireland.
2009
IN HIS FATHER'S FOOTSTEPS
Chris Slowey Junior
Chris Slowey junior takes over as Managing Director.
Chris Slowey Junior takes over as Managing Director.
2010
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Manfreight & Moy Park
The move to Portadown facilitates the offer of a dedicated solution for Moy Park.
2014
AQUISITION & EXPANSION
LPL Acquisition & DFDS extraction
Manfreight acquire LPL and expand the Walking Floor Division into mainland Europe. Manfreight extract from DFDS Belfast.
Manfreight acquire LPL and expand the Walking Floor Division into Mainland Europe. Manfreight extract from DFDS Belfast.
2016
AQUISITION & EXPANSION
Manfreight acquire DFDS Refrigeration
Manfreight acquire the refrigeration arm of DFDS Belfast.
2017
SKELMERSDALE DEPOT
Lancashire Logistics Acquisition
Manfreight acquire Lancashire Logistics & the Skelmersdale Depot is launched.
2019
COVID-19
The Pandemic
The world is changed forever by the Covid-19 pandemic. We are recognised as essential workers.
2020
THE IRISH SEA BORDER
Brexit Protocol
Brexit protocol comes into effect in January 2021. Manfreight remains successful throughout.
Brexit Protocol comes into effect in January 2021. Manfreight remains successful throughout.
January
2021
CUSTOMS SOLUTION
Smart Freight
Manfreight is recognised by Fujitsu and other stakeholders as Northern Ireland's premier haulier. We join a consortium to facilitate frictionless trade into the island of Ireland.
March
2021
LOCAL GOVERNMENT MEETING
Smart Freight & NI Protocol
Local government meet with Manfreight to discuss the Smart Freight solution and the Northern Ireland protocol.
Local government meet with Manfreight to discuss the Smart Freight solution and the Northern Ireland Protocol.
July
2021
UK PARLIAMENT VISIT
Smart Freight & UK Parliament
Manfreight meet with Lord Frost and his delegation.Taking the opportunity to showcase our dedication to digitising the supply chain with a focus on the Smart Freight Solution.
Manfreight meet with Lord Frost and his delegation.Taking the opportunity to showcase our dedication to digitising the supply chain with a focus on the Smart Freight solution.
October
2021
FINNISH CONSULATE GENERAL
Manfreight & the European
Union
Manfreight host the Consulate General for Finland, representing the European Union, to discuss Smart Freight.
October
2021
November
2021
AWARD WINNING LOGISTICS
FSB Family Business of the Year 2022
Manfreight take home Family Business of the Year at the FSB NI Awards in April 2022.
April
2022
AWARD WINNING LOGISTICS
FSB Family Business of the Year 2022
Manfreight take home Family Business of the Year at the FSB NI Awards in April 2022.
April
2022
ARMAGH, BANBRIDGE & CRAIGAVON
Junior Sports Awards Main Sponsor
Manfreight become the main sponsor for the ABC Council Junior Sports Awards - A partnership that lasts for years to come.
June
2022
SCHMITZ CURTAINSIDER TRAILERS
Dry Freight Division Expansion
Manfreight expand our Dry Freight Division with the addition of a new fleet of curtainsider trailers offering a suite of modern telematics.
November
2022
CRUISES, CRANES & CARGO
Manfreight starring on the BBC
Manfreight star in an exciting Documentary for BBC 1 NI - Belfast Harbour: Cruises, Cranes & Cargo.
December
2022
BREAKING GROUND
Manfreight begin work on Project Ark
Manfreight break ground on our most ambitious project yet -a masterpiece of sustainable storage.
April
2023
STEELS GO UP
The Steelwork Frame is Completed
As the steel goes up Project Ark takes a new shape, leaving an indelible mark on the Belfast Harbour skyline.
August
2023
ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLES
UK's First Electric Trailer: Schmitz S.KOe COOL
Manfreight's vision for a zero-emissions supply-chain become a reality with the launch of our all electric kinetic trailer.
August
2023
WE ARE THE SOLUTION
Manfreight win NI Chamber Problem Solver Award 2023
The Manfreight team take home Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce Problem Solver Award 2023.
September
2023
THE NAME IS BORN
It's all in the name
The first MAN diesel is purchased and the Manfreight name is born.
1973
INNOVATION IS IN OUR DNA
Manfreight win FSB Innovation Award for Project Ark
Project Ark's cutting-edge logistics technology and advanced green credentials see Manfreight take home Northern Ireland's Federation of Small Businesses' Innovation Award 2024.
March
2024
PORTADOWN RUGBY SPONSORSHIP
Manfreight become main sponsor of Portadown RFC
Manfreight join forces with Portadown RFC as main sponsor, enabling facility improvements, expanded programmes and increased community engagement.
July
2024
PROJECT COMPLETE
The Future of Temperature Controlled Storage
In under 16 months since its inception, Project Ark reaches completion.
August
2024
ARK OFFICIALLY OPENS
The Grand Opening
Irene Slowey - our founder's wife, cuts the ribbon to the new temperature-controlled facility. In the same week, the facility is awarded double AA* BRC Accreditation.
September
2024
JUNIOR SPORTS AWARDS
Celebrating Local Sporting Talent
Manfreight sponsor the ABC Junior Sports Awards for the third year, recognising the dedication and success of young athletes and coaches.
October
2024
FULL-CIRCLE MOMENT
MAN TGX640 Joins the Fleet
Inspired by the first MAN Diesel truck behind the Manfreight name, the MAN TGX640 combines modern efficiency with a proud nod to Manfreight's roots.
September
2024
EXPANDING THE FLEET
First Volvo FH16 780 Aeros in NI
Manfreight introduced two Volvo FH16 780 Aero trucks, the first in Northern Ireland, showcasing innovation, premium design, and our continued growth.
March
2025
PROJECT COMPLETE
Recognised for Sustainability & Innovation
Manfreight win two honours at the Irish Transport & Logistics Awards, Excellence in Warehousing & Green Supply Chain Excellence, celebrating our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
February
2025
NEW LEGRAS TRAILER FLEET
Strengthening Walking Floor Operations
Manfreight expands its Walking Floor Division with a new fleet of Legras trailers, enhancing capacity, efficiency, and reliability for our customers.
March
2025
BELFAST MARATHON
Running in Support of NI Children’s Hospice
Manfreight team members completed the Belfast City Marathon, raising £5,000, enough to fund a three-night respite stay for a child at Horizon House.
May
2025
FH AERO FLEET EXPANDS
Driving Sustainability & Innovation
Manfreight expand the Aero fleet with the first batch of Vovlo FH500 Aero Trucks, marking a major step in reducing CO₂ emissions while enhancing service and efficiency.
June
2025
STRANRAER FC SPONSOR
Supporting Community Sport in Stranraer
Manfreight become the official sponsor of Stranraer FC’s first Match Ball Podium, reinforcing our commitment to community and grassroots sport.
July
2025
ARMAGH, BANBRIDGE & CRAIGAVON
Junior Sports Awards Main Sponsor
Manfreight become the main sponsor for the ABC Council Junior Sports Awards - A partnership that lasts for years to come.
June
2022
SCHMITZ CURTAINSIDER TRAILERS
Dry Freight Division Expansion
Manfreight expand our Dry Freight Division with the addition of a new fleet of curtainsider trailers offering a suite of modern telematics.
November
2022
CRUISES, CRANES & CARGO
Manfreight starring on the BBC
Manfreight star in an exciting Documentary for BBC 1 NI - Belfast Harbour: Cruises, Cranes & Cargo.
December
2022
BREAKING GROUND
Manfreight begin work on Project Ark
Manfreight break ground on our most ambitious project yet -a masterpiece of sustainable storage.
April
2023
STEELS GO UP
The Steelwork Frame is Completed
As the steel goes up Project Ark takes a new shape, leaving an indelible mark on the Belfast Harbour skyline.
August
2023
ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLES
UK's First Electric Trailer: Schmitz S.KOe COOL
Manfreight's vision for a zero-emissions supply-chain become a reality with the launch of our all electric kinetic trailer.
August
2023
WE ARE THE SOLUTION
Manfreight win NI Chamber Problem Solver Award 2023
The Manfreight team take home Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce Problem Solver Award 2023.
September
2023
INNOVATION IS IN OUR DNA
Manfreight win FSB Innovation Award for Project Ark
Project Ark's cutting-edge logistics technology and advanced green credentials see Manfreight take home Northern Ireland's Federation of Small Businesses' Innovation Award 2024.
March
2024
ARMAGH, BANBRIDGE & CRAIGAVON
Manfreight become main sponsor of Portadown RFC
Manfreight join forces with Portadown RFC as main sponsor, enabling facility improvements, expanded programmes and increased community engagement.
July
2024
PROJECT COMPLETE
The Future of Temperature Controlled Storage
In under 16 months since its inception, Project Ark reaches completion.
August
2024
ARK OFFICIALLY OPENS
The Grand Opening
Irene Slowey - our founder's wife, cuts the ribbon to the new temperature-controlled facility. In the same week, the facility is awarded double AA* BRC Accreditation.
September
2024
JUNIOR SPORTS AWARDS
Celebrating Local Sporting Talent
Manfreight sponsor the ABC Junior Sports Awards for the third year, recognising the dedication and success of young athletes and coaches.
October
2024
FULL-CIRCLE MOMENT
MAN TGX640 Joins the Fleet
Inspired by the first MAN Diesel truck behind the Manfreight name, the MAN TGX640 combines modern efficiency with a proud nod to Manfreight's roots.
September
2024
AWARD WINNING EXCELLENCE
Recognised for Sustainability & Innovation
Manfreight win two honours at the Irish Transport & Logistics Awards, Excellence in Warehousing & Green Supply Chain Excellence, celebrating our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
September
2024
EXPANDING THE FLEET
First Volvo FH16 780 Aeros in NI
Manfreight introduced two Volvo FH16 780 Aero trucks, the first in Northern Ireland, showcasing innovation, premium design, and our continued growth.
March
2025
NEW LEGRAS TRAILER FLEET
Strengthening Walking Floor Operations
Manfreight expands its Walking Floor Division with a new fleet of Legras trailers, enhancing capacity, efficiency, and reliability for our customers.
March
2025
BELFAST MARATHON
Running in Support of NI Children’s Hospice
Manfreight team members completed the Belfast City Marathon, raising £5,000, enough to fund a three-night respite stay for a child at Horizon House.
May
2025
FH AERO FLEET EXPANDS
Driving Sustainability and Innovation
Manfreight expand the Aero fleet with the first batch of Vovlo FH500 Aero Trucks, marking a major step in reducing CO₂ emissions while enhancing service and efficiency.
June
2025
STRANRAER FC SPONSOR
Supporting Community Sport in Stranraer
Manfreight become the official sponsor of Stranraer FC’s first Match Ball Podium, reinforcing our commitment to community and grassroots sport.
July
2025
Where we
are going
Where it
all began
MANFREIGHT BEGINS
A single truck
& a big dream
Chris Slowey Senior starts Manfreight with a single truck and a big dream.
1973
1976
THE NAME IS BORN
It's all in the name
The first MAN diesel is purchased and the Manfreight name is born.
FROM SWEDEN WITH LOVE
A partnership with Volvo
Volvo becomes the vehicle of choice for the Manfreight fleet. A partnership that will last for years to come.
1977
1979
EN ROUTE TO GREECE
Pioneering since the beginning
En route to Greece with pioneering loads of chilled beef. Chris meticulously planned the journey to navigate the constraints of sailing times while allowing the beef to complete the last part of its 28 day hanging process.
HARD TIMES & INTERLAND
Hard times for the business
Hard times in the business led to a chance partnership with Interland - a key piece in the story of Manfreight.
1985
1994
REBUILDING
Hard times come again no more
Chris Slowey Senior began rebuilding the business.
INTERLAND EVOLVES
Manfreight & Norfolkline
Interland becomes Norfolkline, moving to Belfast with new contracts and a shared partnership for Chris and Manfreight.
1998
2009
MOVE TO PORTADOWN
The Food Heartland of Northern Ireland
The business moves to Portadown, Co. Armagh; the food heartland of Northern Ireland.
IN HIS FATHER'S FOOTSTEPS
Chris Slowey Junior
Chris Slowey Junior takes over as Managing Director.
2010
2014
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Manfreight & Moy Park
The move to Portadown facilitates the offer of a dedicated solution for Moy Park.
ACQUISITION & EXPANSION
LPL Acquisition & DFDS extraction
Manfreight acquire LPL and expand the Walking Floor Division into Mainland Europe. Manfreight extract from DFDS Belfast.
2016
2017
STRATEGIC ACQUISITION
Manfreight acquire DFDS Refrigeration
Manfreight acquire the refrigeration arm of DFDS Belfast.
SKELMERSDALE DEPOT
Lancashire Logistics Acquisition
Manfreight acquire Lancashire Logistics & the Skelmersdale Depot is launched.
2019
2020
COVID-19
The Pandemic
The world is changed forever by the Covid-19 pandemic. We are recognised as essential workers.
THE IRISH SEA BORDER
Brexit Protocol
Brexit Protocol comes into effect in January 2021. Manfreight remains successful throughout.
January
2021
March
2021
CUSTOMS SOLUTIONS
Smart Freight
Manfreight is recognised by Fujitsu and other entities as Northern Ireland's premier haulier. We join a consortium to faciliate frictionless trade into the island of Ireland.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT MEETING
Smart Freight & NI Protocol
Local government meet with Manfreight to discuss the Smart Freight solution and the Northern Ireland Protocol.
July
2021
October
2021
UK PARLIAMENT VISIT
Smart Freight & UK Parliament
Manfreight meet with Lord Frost and his delegation.
Taking the opportunity to showcase our dedication to digitising the supply chain with a focus on the Smart Freight solution.
FINNISH CONSULATE GENERAL
Manfreight & the European Union
Manfreight host the Consulate General for Finland, representing the European Union, to discuss Smart Freight.
November
2021
April
2022
AWARD WINNING LOGISTICS
FSB Family Business of
the Year 2022
Manfreight take home Family Business of the Year at the FSB NI Awards in April 2022.
ARMAGH, BANBRIDGE & CRAIGAVON
Junior Sports Awards Main Sponsor
Manfreight become the main sponsor for the ABC Council Junior Sports Awards - A partnership that lasts for years to come.
June
2022
November
2022
SCHMITZ CURTAINSIDER TRAILERS
Dry Freight Division Expansion
Manfreight expand our Dry Freight Division with the addition of a new fleet of curtainsider trailers offering a suite of modern telematics.
CRUISES, CRANES & CARGO
Manfreight starring on the BBC
Manfreight star in an exciting Documentary for BBC 1 NI - Belfast Harbour: Cruises, Cranes & Cargo.
December
2022
April
2023
BREAKING GROUND
Manfreight begin work on Project Ark
Manfreight break ground on our most ambitious project yet - a masterpiece of sustainable storage.
STEELS GO UP
The steelwork frame is completed
As the steel goes up Project Ark takes a new shape, leaving an indelible mark on the Belfast Harbour skyline.
August
2023
August
2023
ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLES
UK's First Electric Trailer: Schmitz S.KOe COOL
Manfreight's vision for a zero-emissions supply-chain become a reality with the launch of our all electric kinetic trailer.
WE ARE THE SOLUTION
Manfreight win NI Chamber Problem Solver Award 2023
The Manfreight team take home Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce Problem Solver Award 2023.
September
2023
March
2024
INNOVATION IS IN OUR DNA
Manfreight win FSB Innovation Award for Project Ark
Project Ark's cutting-edge logistics technology and advanced green credentials see Manfreight take home Northern Ireland's Federation of Small Businesses' Innovation Award 2024.
PORTADOWN RUGBY SPONSOSHIP
Manfreight become main sponsor of Portadown RFC
Manfreight join forces with Portadown RFC as main sponsor, enabling facility improvements, expanded programmes and increased community engagement.
July
2024
August
2024
PROJECT COMPLETE
The Future of Temperature Controlled Storage
In under 16 months since its inception, Project Ark reaches completion.
ARK OFFICIALLY OPENS
The Grand Opening
Irene Slowey - our founder's wife, cuts the ribbon to the new temperature-controlled facility. In the same week, the facility is awarded double AA* BRC Accreditation.
September
2024
October
2024
JUNIOR SPORTS AWARDS 2024
Celebrating Local Sporting Talent
Manfreight sponsor the ABC Junior Sports Awards for the third year, recognising the dedication and success of young athletes and coaches.
A FULL-CIRCLE FLEET MOMENT
MAN TGX640 Joins the Fleet
Inspired by the first MAN Diesel truck behind the Manfreight name, the MAN TGX640 combines modern efficiency with a proud nod to Manfreight's roots.
December
2024
February
2025
AWARD WINNING EXCELLENCE
Recognised for Sustainability & Innovation
Manfreight win two honours at the Irish Transport & Logistics Awards, Excellence in Warehousing & Green Supply Chain Excellence, celebrating our commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
EXPANDING THE FLEET
First Volvo FH16 780 Aeros in NI
Manfreight introduced two Volvo FH16 780 Aero trucks, the first in Northern Ireland, showcasing innovation, premium design, and our continued growth.
March
2025
March
2025
NEW LEGRAS TRAILER FLEET
Strengthening Walking Floor Operations
Manfreight expands its Walking Floor Division with a new fleet of Legras trailers, enhancing capacity, efficiency, and reliability for our customers.
BELFAST MARATHON FUNDRAISER
Running in Support of NI Children’s Hospice
Manfreight team members completed the Belfast City Marathon, raising £5,000, enough to fund a three-night respite stay for a child at Horizon House.
May
2025
June
2025
VOLVO FH AERO FLEET EXPANDS
Driving Sustainability and Innovation
Manfreight expand the Aero fleet with the first batch of Vovlo FH500 Aero Trucks, marking a major step in reducing CO₂ emissions while enhancing service and efficiency.
STRANRAER FC SPONSORSHIP
Supporting Community Sport in Stranraer
Manfreight become the official sponsor of Stranraer FC’s first Match Ball Podium, reinforcing our commitment to community and grassroots sport.
July
2025
Where we
are going