On Thursday, 7th November, John Mason International was honoured to receive the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise 2024 in an official presentation held at Liverpool’s historic Royal Liver Building. This award, the highest recognition a UK business can achieve, celebrates John Mason International’s exceptional contributions to international trade, customer service, and operational excellence.
For the first time in our company’s history, we closed the business for the day, allowing our entire team to gather and commemorate this remarkable achievement together. Over 50 people attended the event, including John Mason staff, valued partners, and distinguished guests, underscoring the importance of this milestone in our company’s journey.
The event commenced with a reading of the ‘Grant of Appointment’ by the Deputy Lieutenant, followed by the official presentation of the King’s Award Crystal to Executive Director Simon Hood by the Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside, Mr. Mark Blundell, representing His Majesty King Charles III. The ceremony was made even more special as the John Mason International flag was proudly hoisted and flown above the Royal Liver Building, symbolising our deep-rooted commitment to excellence and our Merseyside heritage.
We were privileged to host an esteemed group of guests, including:
Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside, Mr. Mark Blundell
High Sheriff of Merseyside, Professor John Mohin OBE DL
Mayor of Knowsley, Councillor Ken McGlashan, and his Consort, Mrs. Anne McGlashan
Knowsley Council Leader, Graham Morgan
Chief Executive of Knowsley Council, Mike Harden
Ian Studd, Director General of the British Association of Removers (BAR)
Louise Di Blasi, Head of Customs at the Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade
Adding a personal touch to the occasion, HRH Princess Alexandra, HRH The Princess Royal, and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh each sent personal letters of congratulations to our team, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that led to this award. This rare honour from the Royal Family further underscores the significance of the King’s Award and highlights John Mason International’s vital role in the British economy.
Reflecting on the honour, Simon Hood said, “Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise is a testament to the dedication of our entire team, who put customer care at the heart of everything we do. This award isn’t just for the company but for every individual who has helped make John Mason International the trusted name it is today.”
Founded in 1884, John Mason International has grown from a small family coal delivery business in Merseyside to the UK’s foremost international moving company. Now assisting over 10,000 people annually with relocations across the globe, we stand apart through our century-long expertise, making moves smooth, secure, and stress-free.
In recent years, we’ve overcome challenges including complex post-Brexit customs regulations and the transition to remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our commitment to adaptability and customer-focused innovation led to a record-breaking year in 2022 and 2023, establishing John Mason International as one of the UK’s largest international removals companies—a success that the King’s Award recognises.
Ian Studd, Director General of the British Association of Removers, shared his praise: “This award underscores John Mason’s ongoing innovation and dedication, ensuring the company’s success not only in the UK but on a global scale. It’s an honour to celebrate such an achievement with a business that places family values and customer satisfaction at the forefront.”
Simon Hood added, “Our business has thrived for over 140 years by consistently adapting and innovating. We are immensely proud of our Merseyside roots and humbled by the recognition of our commitment to excellence in international trade. The sight of our flag flying above the Royal Liver Building is a powerful symbol of our journey and our promise to continue delivering seamless, stress-free moves worldwide.”
The presentation day was a proud and memorable occasion, bringing together our team, partners, and dignitaries to celebrate a truly historic milestone. With the King’s Award in hand, the John Mason International flag flying high, and messages of support from the Royal Family, this achievement marks a new chapter in our ongoing commitment to excellence in the international moving industry.
In addition to royal congratulations, we received letters from prominent industry associations, including IAM, BAR, and FIDI, extending their support and recognition of our achievement.
Read the letters by clicking the links below:
International Association of Movers congratulations message to John Mason International Movers
British Association Of Removers congratulations message to John Mason International Movers
FIDI congratulations message to John Mason International Movers
Check out our photo gallery from the celebration on our Facebook page for more moments from this unforgettable day!
