Worldwide International Limited trading as Publiship, a freight forwarding company dedicated to providing specialised logistics solutions for the publishing industry, is pleased to announce its successful transition to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
The move marks a significant milestone in the company’s history and goal to secure a more sustainable, employee-focused future.
The new EOT structure ensures that Publiship can be wholly owned by its employees, reinforcing a long-standing culture of collaboration, shared responsibility, and long-term stability.
Under this model, the EOT will hold 100% of the company’s shares on behalf of all employees, enabling them to collectively benefit from the success they help create.
Founder and former majority shareholder Sam Higgins said: “Transitioning to an Employee Ownership Trust was the natural next step for our business. We’ve always believed that our people are our greatest asset.
“By placing the company in the hands of those who drive its success every day, we are safeguarding our values, our independence, and our long-term vision.”
The EOT transition provides continuity for clients, partners, and staff, while unlocking several advantages:
· Long-term stability by maintaining company culture and mission
· Employee engagement and empowerment through shared ownership
· A clear succession plan that protects the legacy of the founding members.
New C.E.O. James Doyle adds: “This change recognises the dedication and expertise of every member of our team. We look forward to building an even more inclusive and innovative future together.”
The company will continue to be led by its existing management team, ensuring business continuity and a seamless transition for clients and suppliers. All employees will automatically become beneficiaries of the Trust, with ongoing communication and involvement in the company’s strategic direction.
With this milestone, Publiship joins a growing number of UK organisations adopting the EOT model – an approach known to improve productivity, strengthen employee retention, and enhance overall business resilience.
James Doyle, Gerard Lyons and Andrew Hughes have joined the board of directors joining existing members Sam Higgins and Sue Kelly.
This transaction has been completed without the need for outside finance, all funding has been supplied by the company and the previous shareholders and ably assisted by our advisors Hill Dickinson LLP and Claritas.
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Publiship is headquartered in Liverpool has been providing leading global shipping services for the publishing industry since 1983.
It specialises in freight forwarding for publishers and printers and has a global network of 14 offices, strategically located in main printing and publishing centres all over the world.
Worldwide International Limited Trading is the trading name for Publiship.
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