A future owned by our people

25 years in the making

Cardinal is a story of a £15,000 investment, 25 years ago, that became the world’s biggest employee-owned logistics business.

Now the Cardinal Partnership, our group has brought both Cardinal Global Logistics and Far Logistics together to create a more equitable workplace for employees.

Every supplier and agent that chooses to work with us is collaborating with an organisation that is people focused and a force for good.

By requiring at least 51% of the share capital of a business to transfer from the current shareholders to a Trust, the move to become an EOB better reflects employee interests.

In our case, Cardinal shareholders agreed to sell a hugely significant 68% of their shareholding. It’s this percentage that makes the Cardinal Partnership more than just a name.

Now, employees are ‘beneficial owners’ and get a fairer share of the profits that the business generates each year. There are over 1000 others in the UK that have already transitioned, representing more than 180,000 employee owners.

We’ve always believed that businesses who work with Cardinal are working with 600+ decision-makers, all experts in their field. And by becoming an EOB that’s even more true.

Why work with an employee owned business

Better customer service

Since the Partners have a stake in the success of the company, they are likely to be more invested in providing excellent customer service. They will be more willing to go above and beyond to meet your needs as a customer.

Greater innovation

Employee ownership leads to a more collaborative and innovative work environment, as Partners are encouraged to contribute their ideas and take ownership of their work. This can result in improved products and services.

Positive impact

EOBs often have a strong connection to the local community and may be involved in supporting local causes and initiatives. This creates a positive impact on the community and fosters a sense of goodwill.

Increased accountability

With a sense of ownership, Partners are more accountable for their work and the success of the business. This leads to better quality of products and services and higher customer satisfaction.

Long-term stability

Employee-owned businesses have a long-term perspective and commitment to sustainability. They are more likely to make decisions that benefit the company in the long run, rather than prioritising short-term profits.

Improved productivity

Employee ownership can lead to higher productivity with employees feeling a greater sense of ownership and responsibility for their work, along with the company’s success.

Don't take our word for it

“I think becoming an EOB is a great way for the business to confirm Cardinal Group is an employee-led business, ensuring all stakeholders are at the forefront of decision-making. Evidence suggests employee-owned businesses to be highly resilient, more profitable, and more sustainable.”

Liam McGonagle, Chief Finance Officer

“The EOB is a fantastic concept that allows Cardinal to continue building with the added security that the business is still run by the people who care for it the most. Sharing the ownership with our colleagues in such a way resonates hugely with our ambitions to create a truly motivated community of the very best individuals.”

Pete Cavanagh, Chief Operating Officer

“Becoming an EOB enhanced the Cardinal culture of creativity, bravery and inclusivity. The EOB structure is meaningful reward and recognition of our committed colleagues. The next chapter in which we all shape the future of Cardinal and share in the success story.”

Louse Embury, Head of HR
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Our Partnership Values

“The role of Cardinal is not to have all the ideas; it’s to create a culture where everyone can have ideas and feel that they’re valued.”

Our Partnership Values are at the heart of why we do what we do. We are committed to creating a culture where everyone can be the best they can be.

Discover the core values that have shaped and defined our business and our people.

Be brave…
by encouraging each other to make bold decisions.

Be creative…
and inspire each other to think differently.

Be inclusive…
we’ll help each other belong to something extraordinary.

Want to become a Partner?

We’re always looking for talented and committed team players to join us and would like to hear from anyone that aspires to be exceptional.

Join our Team