Ziegler is a family-owned global logistics powerhouse, with a passion for personal service.
Here we talk to Marzena Spiewak, Branch Manager of their Brackmills site, about the culture of the firm and their exciting expansion into the world of pharmaceuticals.
When I joined Ziegler, I was immediately drawn to the company’s unique blend of family values and professional excellence. Founded in Belgium in 1908, Ziegler is still owned by the same family, now in its fourth generation. This heritage gives the company a strong foundation of trust, longevity, and dedication to its people and clients, which really resonates with me as the Branch Manager here in Brackmills, Northampton.
Why Brackmills?
Five years ago, we moved our branch from Moulton Park to Brackmills, and it’s been a fantastic decision. The central location and excellent transport links make this the perfect hub for our operations, allowing us to serve clients efficiently while ensuring the security of their goods. As someone who oversees the day-to-day running of the branch, I can confidently say that Brackmills has been instrumental in helping us grow and thrive.
Breaking new ground into pharmaceutical logistics
One of our most exciting recent developments was our entry into the pharmaceutical logistics sector in April 2024. This was a big step for us and involved significant preparation. To handle temperature-controlled storage and transportation of pharmaceutical products, we needed to secure a medical license from the government. It wasn’t easy, but we achieved it, upgrading our security systems to Grade 3 and undergoing regular audits to ensure compliance.
Starting small helped us navigate the strict requirements, but as demand grows, we’re preparing to expand. We’re also working towards obtaining TAPA (Transported Asset Protection Association) approval for our building, a move that will reinforce our commitment to security and quality. This expansion has opened up exciting opportunities, not only for our business but also for the local economy, as we plan to recruit more staff from the Northampton area to support our growth.
A personal and bespoke approach
At Ziegler, we pride ourselves on offering something that many larger logistics companies don’t: a personal, bespoke service. Unlike others, we don’t work with fixed rates or rigid systems. Each client’s needs are unique, and we tailor our solutions accordingly. Whether it’s complex routes or out-of-gauge solutions, we find ways to meet our clients’ specific requirements. It’s this flexibility and creativity that make my role so rewarding and keeps our clients coming back.
Sustainability matters
Sustainability is something we’re incredibly passionate about. Globally, Ziegler leads the way with initiatives like introducing fully autonomous electric vehicles in Belgium. And we’ve even installed bee hives on the roof of our HQ in Brussels - a small but meaningful step towards creating a greener future. For us, sustainability isn’t just about business; it’s about leaving a positive impact on the world.
The Ziegler culture
What makes Ziegler truly special is the culture. We’re a global business with 3,500 employees, but we still feel like a family. Here in Brackmills, our team of ten is close-knit and entrepreneurial. We all have the freedom to innovate and make decisions, and the support from the wider Ziegler family is always there. This is a company that values its people, encourages progression, and retains talent—qualities that are increasingly rare in today’s corporate world.
Looking ahead
As we continue to grow, I’m excited about what the future holds for Ziegler in Brackmills. Expanding our pharmaceutical logistics offering is a big priority, and with the possibility of adapting space at our UK headquarters at London Gateway, the sky’s the limit. But no matter how much we grow, our commitment to personalized service, sustainability, and our people will always remain at the heart of everything we do.
I feel incredibly proud to lead the Brackmills branch, and I look forward to seeing how we can continue to contribute to the Northampton community and beyond.