Teesside-based Casper Shipping, the UK’s leading independent maritime services organisation, has been awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.

The accolade was officially presented during a visit to the company’s River Tees facilities by Jo Ropner, His Majesty’s lord-lieutenant for North Yorkshire, accompanied by deputy lieutenant Bill Scott OBE, CEO of Wilton Engineering.

This recognition marks a historic moment for Middlesbrough-based Casper Shipping, a company at the forefront of the maritime industry since 1872.

Group managing director Michael Shakesheff – pictured below with the lord-lieutenant – described the King’s Award as “a culmination of over 152 years of maritime excellence” and “brilliant recognition of what we have achieved as a family.”

Shakesheff continued: “‘Always on’ has become our strategy. It is more than a strapline on a business card; it is our internal GPS and has helped shape us as a business. This relentless nature to look for the next opportunity is one of the reasons why we are receiving this award.

“We have evolved from a regional ship agent to an internationally recognised ship owner and operator and maritime service provider. I’d like to thank our customers and stakeholders but, most importantly, I thank all of our employees who have made this happen.”

The King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, one of the UK’s most prestigious business accolades, celebrates Casper’s remarkable growth in global markets and significant year-on-year increases in overseas sales. Personally approved by King Charles, the award underscores the company’s vital contribution to the UK’s export economy and its pioneering role in the maritime sector.

Casper Shipping’s success is built on its promise of professional, personal and practical service delivery. Over the years, the group has grown into a powerhouse of maritime solutions, with divisions including Casper Logistics, Casper Chartering, Casper Port Agency, Casper Customs, and Casper Defence. From the complexities of global trade to seamless operations across the UK and Europe, Casper is committed to consistently delivering with precision and efficiency.

The group recently expanded its reach with the acquisition of premier logistics firm Johnson Partners. Known for its expertise in handling complex logistics and a strong foothold in key markets, Johnson Partners complements Casper’s services. This strategic move broadens Casper’s capabilities, paves the way for enhanced efficiencies, and ensures clients benefit from integrated, scalable solutions.

At the heart of Casper’s success is its people-first philosophy. By combining deep industry knowledge with a personal touch, the group has earned a reputation for delivering bespoke solutions that empower clients to navigate global logistics with confidence.

This human-focused approach is backed by Casper’s investment in innovation and sustainability. The company is committed to integrating cutting-edge technologies that enhance productivity, reduce environmental impact, and ensure resilience in a fast-changing marketplace.

Casper’s leadership recognises the growing need for green initiatives within the maritime sector. As the industry pushes towards digitisation and sustainability, Casper’s proactive adoption of innovative solutions positions it as a leader in shaping the future of global trade.

With the King’s Award for Enterprise now under its belt, Casper is poised to continue its journey as a cornerstone of international trade. By fostering sustainable practices, expanding its service portfolio, and investing in its people, Casper is charting a course for growth that promises to shape the next 150 years and beyond.

As Michael Shakesheff proudly reflected, the award is not just a recognition of what Casper has achieved—but a celebration of its enduring commitment to the industry, its clients and its Teesside roots.